Who a psychedelic retreat is not for

Most writing about retreats focuses on who should come. We want to be just as clear about who should not, because that honesty is a form of safety, not a marketing flaw.

Screening is protection, not a gate to pass

Every place at NEXUS begins with a medical and psychological screening conversation. Its purpose is not to sell you a spot. It is to decide, together, whether this work is appropriate and safe for you right now. Sometimes the most caring answer is no, or not yet.

Factors we take seriously

The following can make this work unsafe. This is a starting point, to be confirmed with our medical advisor, and it is not medical advice:

• A personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.
• Certain heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of stroke.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Some medications, including SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, and lithium, which can interact with psilocybin. Never stop a prescribed medication on your own; this is reviewed with you and your doctor.
• Being in acute crisis right now, where steady, ongoing care is what is needed first.

You also need to be 18 or older.

If now is not the time

Being declined is not a judgement about you. Timing matters, and readiness matters. If a retreat is not right at the moment, we will say so plainly and, where we can, point you toward more appropriate support.

For the full picture, see our Safety and Screening and Contraindications pages. If you are unsure where you stand, the honest answer comes from a conversation, so feel free to reach out.