Studies retreats
Retreats within scientific studies
Some of our retreats are part of scientific studies. We provide a carefully held framework for this — with clear preparation, responsible guidance, and structured follow-up. The research itself is the responsibility of the participating scientific partners.
Currently, no study is active. On this page, we document what we've contributed to. You can register your interest for upcoming studies without obligation.
Go to the interest list
Research so far
What we've researched
In Jamaica, we conducted several retreats embedded in a scientific study. Its subject was racial trauma. The study was created in cooperation with the University of Ottawa.
Our task lay within the retreat itself — in preparation, delivery, and follow-up under carefully controlled conditions. The scientific evaluation is the responsibility of the participating researchers. The experience alone isn't decisive; what matters is the framework within which it takes place.
- Location
- Jamaica
- Collaboration
- University of Ottawa
- Focus
- Racial trauma
- Conducted
- Multiple times
Impressions
Aftermovie
A short film from Jamaica — impressions from the retreats that took place as part of the study. The video plays without sound.
International Expert Team
Our retreats are accompanied by a dedicated, interdisciplinary team of internationally recognised specialists — physicians, clinical psychologists, researchers, and traditional healers. Each team member brings experience and a clear commitment to a safe, culturally attentive framework.
Prof. Monnica Williams
Clinical Psychologist, Expert in Psychedelic Therapy for Racial Trauma
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Sergio Pérez R., MD, MSc
Lead Organizer, Anesthesiologist, Emergency Doctor, Psychotherapist.
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Sonya Faber, Ph.D., MBA
School of Psychology, University of Ottawa
Francieli Favarim
Clinical Psychologist, Psychedelic Therapist, Psychedelia Foundation
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Shina Kendall
Facilitator
Research Team
Our research team consists of dedicated students and early-career scientists from renowned universities, focused on the cultural and psychological aspects of psychedelic-assisted therapies.
M. Myriah MacIntyre
PhD Candidate, Clinical Psychology, University of Ottawa
Culture and Mental Health Disparities Lab, Vice President, PSST, Psychology Students for Systemic Transformation
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Simmi Gundu
Undergraduate Student, Psychology, University of Ottawa
Culture and Mental Health Disparities Lab
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Sedina Acolatse, MA, LMFT
M.A. Student, Psychedelics & Consciousness Studies, University of Ottawa
LinkedIn profileFunders and Research Partners
This retreat was made possible only through the support of, and collaboration with, leading institutions and organisations dedicated to ethical psychedelic research, mental health, and community healing. Our thanks go to:
The location
The natural beauty of Jamaica
Our carefully chosen refuge in Negril, Jamaica, offered a quiet, coastal setting for the retreat work. The surroundings were shaped by the following qualities:
- A quiet coastal location in Negril, Jamaica, chosen for its seclusion and natural beauty.
- Welcoming rooms and shared spaces for ceremony, integration, rest, and gentle movement.
- Nourishing, lovingly prepared meals made from local ingredients — with vegetarian and Ital options.
- Diverse ways to connect with nature — from nearby beaches to lush tropical gardens on site.
From the research
Results
Once results from the studies are available and cleared for release, we'll summarise them here in plain language and link to the corresponding publications. We report with restraint — neither simplified nor overstated.
In preparation
The evaluation of the study hasn't been completed yet. We'll publish results only once they're robust and cleared for release.
Interest list
Register your interest for upcoming studies
No study is currently active — sign up and we'll get in touch as soon as a new study starts.
This isn't a registration. We'll inform you without obligation as soon as a studies retreat is planned.
Interested in a retreat with a fixed date? View Self-Exploration Retreats.