The San Francisco Bay Area unique leadership coaching program uses psychedelic drug ketamine to help technology executives break through mental barriers and improve their leadership capabilities.
Wired Report In Silicon Valley's fast-paced, high-pressure world, more and more technical executives are turning to unconventional ways to improve leadership skills and break through mental barriers. The program, offered by the Bay Area organization, combines ketamine therapy with leadership coaching in a unique three-day off-site experience.
The organization's co-founders, psychologist Aria Stone, and mental coach Shuan Shuan, believe that ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic with psychedelic properties, can help track the coaching process early by inducing a state of highly reinforced neuroplasticity. “With ketamine, people's brains are literally more neurogenetic, so there's a window of optimization for 24-48 hours. That's why it's a multi-day experience,” explains Stone. The drug is increasing its profile as it has been revealed that Elon Musk is using it on a doctor's prescription.
Limited to a small group of nine or ten clients to ensure confidentiality, training sessions primarily cater to high-level executives such as CEOs, CFOs and startup founders. These leaders often seek a sense of connection with others in similar positions as the new horizon, under immeasurable pressure. “This is all lonely people. They have to lead and experience so many things on their own,” Shuang says. “They can come and see that they're not alone and let go of the burden of being protected at all times.”
Participants undergo a rigorous screening process, including medical and psychological background checks, to ensure compatibility with the program. People with a history of trauma, substance abuse, or certain mental health conditions may not be acceptable. The three-day offsite cost will be $2,600 plus an additional $350 fee for medical evaluation and ketamine prescription.
During the session, clients will participate in two ketamine experiences managed by a doctor and a registered nurse. The opening day will focus on settling into a state of “radical acceptance” with the opening ceremony, including movement, dance and intentional setting. Participants have the option to opt out of ketamine treatment if they find it uncomfortable.
On day 2, the client receives a second dose of ketamine and engages in coaching and integrated sessions. Facilitators create a supportive and nurturing environment where clients rest in “small nests” or “small beds” surrounded by blankets, pillows and stuffed animals. Day 3 will focus on integration and coaching, helping participants apply the insights they gain from their ketamine journey to their daily lives and leadership roles.
The program's facilitators acknowledge that ketamines and psychedelics are not panacea and may not be suitable for everyone, but they believe they may help individuals overcome mental disabilities and achieve personal growth. “People float at the end. They share, “I don't want to end this. Can I integrate this method into my life?”
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Lucas Nolan is a reporter for Breitbart News, which covers the issues of freedom of speech and online censorship.
