Trained as a medical doctor and epidemiologist, I have felt compelled to dutifully walk the talk of my profession since 2002 to address my own chronic major depression/anxiety, even though countless SSRI/benzo combinations complemented by endless psychotherapy had long since “stopped working.” Over the last four years in particular, the medications just left me numb—to all of my emotions, not just the hopelessness and anxiety—and I was increasingly feeling disconnected from everyone around me. I frequently described it as a slow death to my very well trained and equally well-intentioned doctors, who were also colleagues that badly wanted to help, but seemed at a loss. Incidentally, I had also tried ketamine infusions, to no avail.

I’m convinced eight days with MycoMeditations did more to help heal my psyche than a lifetime of pills/IVs and counseling was ever going to. I frequently see the word “ineffable” used by others to describe their psilocybin experiences, and I’m similarly at a loss for words. However, I think the real value here is not in relaying the vibrantly colorful stories of what I experienced while on the “trips” (though they were splendid), but in sharing how much differently I feel on the other side of the retreat. I’ve seemingly been gifted a return to the authentic version of myself. This is the me I thought I had lost, the one very alive before I developed myriad dysfunctional coping mechanisms that gradually held me hostage and blunted most of what was good in me. Something in those mushrooms restored the whole of me; I’m pinching myself in disbelief.

To be clear, the week in Jamaica wasn’t easy. Swallowing the mushrooms was (easy), of course, but there were hours on integration therapy daily that made this the work of pure intention and grit. The support staff of 5 possessed the requisite training and experience, but beyond that, each exhibited an uncanny temperament that allowed the work to unfold safely and to astonishing benefit. I definitely witnessed the art of being a healer at its best. It reminded me of why I originally went into medicine.

Admittedly, my experience is very recent, and I know as well as anyone that durability of effect is an important aspect of any therapeutic. The magic mushrooms didn’t magically erase depression. To that end, I’ll be sure to check back at 1, 3, and 6 months to update my TripAdvisor review. Even if the effects wane, and even if that happens soon, these past several days of respite and restoration have been priceless. I’m still getting my head around what it means for something to be “worth it.” But I’m definitely worth it; I believe we all are.

I was grateful for the chance to take psilocybin in a safe and protected manner. The facilitators are kind, skillful and well-trained, and there were enough of them to feel they would be there if needed(5 facilitators for 8 guests). I think the three doses, and the integration sessions on the off days provided sufficient guidance to approach my issues, and make reasonable progress towards addressing them.
The location (Blue Marlin Villas) was comfortably furnished, the housekeeping staff friendly, the food excellent, the beach clean, and transportation, COVID testing, everything was very well organized. The camaraderie among the group was very helpful in creating a supportive environment for all. We left feeling like family.

I attended my first Myco retreat back in June 2021 and wanted to wait a couple months before writing a review to see how the otherworldly journey I took in Jamaica would translate back into my everyday life in the states. I initially signed up for Myco because I was struggling to leave an abusive relationship, but due to COVID, the retreat was pushed back and I was able to leave the relationship prior to the retreat. Even though I was able to break off from that relationship before Myco, I had no doubts about the benefits of still attending the retreat as I knew there was so much more “work” I needed to do. I didn’t know what to expect going into Myco, but was ready to leave all my preconceived notions at the door and be open to the healing power of mushrooms.

I wish I had the words to describe what I experienced during this transformative week at Myco, but to say it was life changing would be an understatement. Two months later back in the states I am still experiencing the positive effects of vitality that I was given through the incredible power of this medicine.

You will not find a more attentive, professional staff than what I experienced at Myco. Justin, Abbie, Mike and the team of facilitators have created something very special at Myco and you will be in the best of hands as you journey into this next frontier. The benefits of doing this work in community with other attendees was also something I wasn’t expecting to be so wonderfully gratifying, but to witness others experience their own transformations in front of you was powerful and life giving.

I am already planning my next trip back for sometime next year. I am eternally grateful for what Myco allowed me to see in myself and all that is available to me now.