Aspects of the Setting in Substance-Assisted Therapy

This conference focuses on aspects that can play a role in designing the substance session within the context of substance-assisted therapy. The primary focus lies on practical questions regarding how individual elements can be handled—less in the sense of what has to be done, and more in terms of how specific elements can function. This approach enables conference participants to develop a deeper understanding of underlying mechanisms and provides them with a foundation for deciding whether and how they wish to incorporate specific elements themselves, thereby further shaping their own personal therapeutic style.

The conference features lectures and demonstrations, but also offers ample opportunity for professional exchange. In this way, the diverse experiences of practitioners contribute to a rich and varied dialogue.

Due to time constraints, it is not possible to address every conceivable aspect. Further topics may be explored in greater depth at future conferences. This year, the program covers the following areas:

• The Use of Music in the Substance Session: This ranges from the use of musical instruments, singing, and various musical genres, to the use of electronic playback devices, and even the deliberate use of silence during different phases of the session. Practical examples will be used to illustrate these concepts. A “Gong Journey” is scheduled for the evening.
• On the Ritualization of the Setting: What is meant by the term “ritual”? What impact can the inclusion of ritual elements have within a substance session?
• Interventions in Extreme Experiences: It may happen that, during substance sessions, clients are confronted with experiences that push them to the very limits of their capacity to process them—experiences that often push therapists to their own limits as well. What kinds of situations might these be, and how can they be handled appropriately? This session also provides space for discussing specific cases from a supervisory perspective.