The dynamics of transference in psychedelic work - Mijal Schmidt

This event is part of our monthly public lecture series exploring clinical and theoretical perspectives on the intersection of psychoanalysis and the study of psychedelics. Events take place on the last Wednesday of each month.

The dynamics of transference in psychedelic work

Why is it important to inquire into the phenomena of transference in the work with psychedelics?

Transference is a potency at the core of human relations. In analytical and therapeutic practices it is at the same time the drive that facilitates the work and the obstacle that can interrupt its curse if not located in its proper coordinates. It is the symbolic support of the relationship and it is also imbued with the imaginary in all its extension. Meanwhile, in different indigenous traditions, the relationship is established with the plant and it is in that very specific liaison that the curandero obtains the wisdom and resources (Ikaros, allies, vision, etc) to navigate the intricacies of ceremonies and other realms. It is because of the numerous relationships that the maestro establishes with allies, animals, other plants and other curanderos that he finds his own voice and power to mediate between worlds and ultimately produce the types of cures that they intend.

Several questions emerge from this, in the current work with with psychedelics:

How are facilitators positioning themselves in relation to the participant?

What is the role they represent?

Considering that the SsS is needed to establish the transference and to host it throughout the whole course of the work, where would we locate it in this scenario?

Can we talk about transference towards the plant?

And what are its conditions of possibilities?

Mijal Schmidt is a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst. She holds master’s degrees in Psychoanalysis (Mexico) and Musicology (Netherlands), as well as a degree in Clinical Psychology (Mexico). Her academic research includes a Master’s thesis from the University of Amsterdam on "The cosmological properties and the performative sonic transmission of Ikaros: sacred medicinal melodies from Peruvian Amazonian communities.” With a decade of experience working with psychedelics and specializing in psychedelic preparation and integration, is currently a Psychedelic Integration Therapist and Clinical Consultant for leading organizations in the field, including ICEERS and Nectara. She is the founder and former director of the clinical intervention organization, Lazo y Voz, coordinating diverse interdisciplinary treatment teams, recognized for her work in therapeutic accompaniment and crisis intervention for individuals with complex, mixed diagnoses, including psychotic and autistic spectrum and affective disorders. She is an international lecturer and published author in her field.

The Psychedelic Experience Clinic is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing accessible and affordable psychotherapy to individuals following psychedelic experiences, and a space for the advancement of thought around the clinical phenomena resulting from psychedelic experience.

Even if you can't attend please consider buying a ticket or donating a small amount towards the work of the clinic. All proceeds go towards the establishment of the clinic as a clinical referral service, study group and provider of public CPD accreditted events. Any further funds go towards the provision of further subsidised therapy sessions for this unique patient population.

Learn more about the clinic on our website: www.ThePsychedelicExperienceClinic.co.uk

Follow us on Instagram @thepsychedelicexperienceclinic

Follow us on X https://x.com/PsychExpClinic