13 Mar 2027 | Art Therapy and Psychedelics | 1 Day In-Person Workshop

This one day workshop will begin with an introduction to the current state of research into the therapeutic aspects of psychedelics, including:

• The different substances used in psychedelic-assisted therapy and indigenous ceremonies.
• The neuroscience behind these mechanisms.
• The current applications in clinical trials.
• Ethical approaches to integration support within the current legal framework 

This will be followed by a focus on the non-verbal and somatic aspects of psychedelic experiences and the way art therapy is uniquely positioned as an intervention that can help with both the preparation and integration stage of psychedelic-assisted therapy. 

The afternoon shifts to practical application, exploring how therapists can create safe holding spaces for clients bringing their psychedelic experiences to sessions and engage in hands-on exercises with art materials.

This is a new, emerging field which invites ongoing exploration and ethical reflection, including harm-reduction principles and ways to help clients navigate challenging experiences. . The day will end with a group discussion to address questions and share perspectives.

This session is intended for open, evidence-informed discussion of psychedelics in therapeutic contexts. No substances will be used or provided, and the training does not promote or oppose their use.

Facilitator:

Nili Sigal is an experienced art therapist and EMDR therapist and a supervisor in both modalities. She has a special interest in the mind-body connection and has written a book chapter about the somatic aspects of art therapy. She specialises in complex PTSD and set up the BAAT SIG on PTSD, complex trauma and dissociation. She co-authored a journal article with a service user for IJAT and previously facilitated the clinical meetings and wrote the blog for London Art Therapy Centre. 

https://breakingconvention.co.uk/performers/nili-sigal

Now based in Exeter, Devon, she works for the NHS in community services and is currently undertaking an MSc in Psychedelics: Mind, Medicine, and Culture at the University of Exeter. She is passionate about art therapy’s potential to deepen and enhance outcomes in psychedelic-assisted therapy.