What Does a Trip Sitter Do?

Originally associated with the counterculture movement of the 1970s, psychedelics are now receiving attention for their therapeutic benefits.

However, regardless of whether these substances are used recreationally or therapeutically, there is much controversy due to the sheer fact that they are criminalized. This means that outside of participating in a clinical trial, these drugs are still illegal.

Taking psychedelics can lead to an intense experience, so many will look to a “trip sitter” to support them throughout their experience. Trip sitters supervise another person's psychedelic "trip" to ensure their safety.

Read on to learn more about psychedelics and the role of a trip sitter. 

What Are Psychedelics?

Psychedelics are a class of drugs that disrupt an individual’s experience of reality. They alter one’s perception, cognition, and emotional state, with some drugs enhancing one's sense of physical sensations while others cause dissociation from reality.

Examples of psychedelics include:

• Ketamine
• LSD (also referred to as acid)
• MDMA
• Psilocybin (also known as magic mushrooms)
• Ibogaine

What Does the Term 'Trip' Refer To?

A "trip" refers to the experience of taking a hallucinogen. Psychedelic drugs can lead to individuals experiencing the effects for hours. Therefore, when one takes a psychedelic drug, they are taking a “trip” from reality.

However, a psychotherapist offering psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in a professional setting would not use this terminology.

What Does a Trip Sitter Do?

A 'trip sitter,' also known as a 'sober sitter' or 'psychedelic carer,' is someone who refrains from taking hallucinogens in order to take care of the person who is taking the hallucinogen.

But what exactly does a trip sitter do?

They Make Sure That the Person Taking Psychedelics Is Safe

Since psychedelics can lead to long effects, a trip sitter can be essential to ensure everyone stays safe.

Recreational use of psychedelics can present a risk of harm to self and others, specifically due to the effects of feeling detached from reality. This is why having a trip sitter can be important for maintaining the safety of the person experiencing the drug.

The person who is "tripping" might not be able to see or understand that certain situations - like driving a car, walking outside, or even trying to go up or down the stairs - are dangerous for them while they are experiencing the psychotropic effects of the hallucinogen. The trip sitter can prevent this person from taking part in activities that might harm them.

They Provide Support Throughout the Psychedelic Experience

A trip sitter may provide food and water, transportation, and general support to the individual who ingested the drugs.

In case of an emergency, they are the point person to determine the best course of action. They also might help set up a safe space for the person to enjoy the effects of the hallucinogens, removing anything from the area that could be used to cause harm. Remaining nonjudgmental is a preferred quality of a trip sitter.

What Is Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy?

A psychotherapist that specializes in psychedelic therapy may perform some of the roles of a trip sitter, but they also provide the support that stems from their professional therapeutic experience.

The psychotherapy may be accompanied by preparatory sessions before and an integrative session after the use of the psychedelic; basically, getting emotionally ready to use the drug and then connecting their psychedelic experiences to the things they'd like to change or work on in their lives.

The frequency and type of psychotherapeutic interventions can vary. Clients are encouraged to tune in to the feelings, thoughts, and sensations they are experiencing and freely engage in the psychotherapy process. 

What Can Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy Treat?

Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is gaining steam as an evidence-based treatment for:

• Trauma
• Substance abuse
• Mood disorders

During a session of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, a trained clinician is present to support the client for the duration of the experience.

Hallucinogen Use May Lead to Hallucinogen-Persisting Perception Disorder (HPDD)

Psychedelics, whether used therapeutically or recreationally, are not for everyone. It is possible for those who use psychedelic drugs to experience hallucinogen-persisting perception disorder (HPDD).

Those who use psychedelics recreationally are at an increased risk for HPDD. While there has been little risk found for those using it in a clinical trial, research is ongoing.

A Word From Verywell

It can be tempting to turn to substances when experiencing struggles with reality. Despite the temptation, remaining mindful of the effects of drug use is critical. If you’re interested in using psychedelics for their healing effects, consider seeking out a clinical trial through the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS).

If you do decide to partake in hallucinogens outside of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, using a trip sitter is a responsible decision. This person can keep you safe while you are experiencing the effects of the drug you took.