DEATH DOULA & PSYCHEDELICS TRAINING & RETREAT

Supported by Research

Psychedelics as a tool to support death anxiety is not a new concept as research dates back to the 1950s. However, it was not until 2016 that the Western medical system took notice, when two groundbreaking, randomized double-blind trials at world-renowned institutions (NYU and Johns Hopkins) demonstrated long-term, significant decreases in death anxiety and increases in quality of life.

An Emerging Field in EOL Care

While psychedelics like psilocybin and LSD remain federally illegal in most states, legal ketamine is gaining traction in palliative care, showing benefits for those facing end-of-life anxiety, fear, and grief.

Ketamine is a Legal Psychedelic

Ketamine, widely used safely for over 50 years in medical settings, is now being used at lower doses to create psychedelic experiences. It works quickly and has a short effect, making it ideal for deep, transformative sessions in group settings, with fast recovery compared to classic psychedelics.

Death Doula Professional & Personal Growth

A death doula supports the dying and their loved ones by offering education and guidance on end-of-life options, including psychedelics. Understanding how psychedelics may help or harm, depending on a person’s condition, is essential for effective care.

The skills needed for sitting with the dying are similar to those used in psychedelic journeying. 

This training offers an experiential opportunity to understand what patients may face. For doulas interested in psychedelic sitting, this process can be profoundly transformative.

After spending several intense days nestled safely together to explore our losses, loves, joys and grief, the group is primed for a psychedelic journey that can potentially deepen and expand our own personal growth in unexpected and ineffable possibilities.

The total cost ranges from approximately $4,600 to $6,300, depending on your choice of lodging and when you pay your tuition. Please note that the most affordable lodging option (shared yurt) typically books quickly. Tuition payment made before April 1, 2025, qualifies for a significant discount. Use our booking form to calculate a detailed total cost estimate based on our current room availability. 

No, we invite individuals from all backgrounds and experience levels to join this transformative journey. To maximize your training, please complete the pre-course assignments and attend the online meeting beforehand. Anyone wishing to participate in ketamine journeying must complete a secure health form and be evaluated by Dr. Charfen. No prior psychedelic experience is needed, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities for preparation and questions.

If you qualify and choose to participate, Ketamine will be administered via intramuscular (IM) injection. This method is chosen for its rapid onset and its effectiveness in facilitating a psychedelic state. Dosing will be personalized in collaboration with Dr. Charfen, based on your unique health profile. You will have the opportunity to participate in two IM journeys, with the flexibility to adjust the dosage if needed.

Dr. Charfen, a board-certified Emergency Medicine Physician, has over 25 years of experience using ketamine in critical emergency situations. She is also specifically trained by PRATI (Psychedelic Research and Training Institute) to administer ketamine for therapeutic and psychedelic purposes. For this retreat, ketamine will be administered at much lower doses than those typically used in emergency settings.

Her team includes experienced ICU and hospice nurses with specialized knowledge in both clinical and psychedelic applications of ketamine. The retreat location was carefully chosen for its tranquil setting and proximity to the nearest emergency department, just five minutes away. While detailed medical evaluations are conducted to ensure participants are safe candidates, the team is fully equipped and prepared to handle any unforeseen emergencies with advanced medical equipment and has readily available transportation to the emergency department if necessary.

Participation in the Ketamine Experience is entirely voluntary. We invite those who are not receiving the medication to engage with others by holding space in the room, as this contributes significant value to the overall experience. Please note that there will be no reduction in tuition fees for those who choose not to participate or if a medical condition arises that prevents participation.

Yes, this retreat welcomes both men and women who are interested in exploring life, death, and the transformative potential of psychedelics. It offers a safe and supportive environment for personal growth and for those seeking to support individuals navigating terminal diagnoses.

To ensure a cohesive and impactful experience for all, we encourage every participant to commit to the full duration of the program. We kindly request that you refrain from late arrivals or early departures.

To foster a nurturing retreat environment that encourages deep personal exploration and builds a strong sense of community among participants, we kindly request that everyone stays at the retreat center throughout the program.

Discover a delightful array of cozy lodging choices designed to enhance your stay while meeting most budgets:

• Bungalows: Indulge in the luxury of private baths and patios while soaking in stunning views of lush gardens and the ocean. Rates are $350 per night for single occupancy and $175 per night for double.

• Lodge Suite: Step into a world of elegance with charming old-world décor in the heart of the main lodge. Rates begin at $310 per night for single, $155 for double, and $105 for triple occupancy.

• Yurt Village: Experience the unique charm of these vibrant yurts, featuring two single beds or a king-size bed, along with a private toilet and sink. Additional showers and toilets are conveniently located in the shower house, just a short stroll down a private path. Rates are $198 per night for single and $99 for double occupancy.

Accommodations are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and all prices include taxes. We strive to accommodate your preferences, so please book through us to secure your discounted rate, and refrain from contacting the retreat center directly.

But be sure to visit their website for detailed photos of their beautiful rooms.

We believe sharing meals builds community at our retreat, so we ask all participants to join the meal plan. Our meals are designed around the ketamine experience, with specific times and dietary options for journey days.

The retreat center accommodates various dietary needs, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan choices. Ingredients are often served on the side for your customization. They focus on local organic produce and source proteins free from antibiotics and hormones, prioritizing whole foods over processed options.

You are of course welcome to bring additional personal food. There is limited refrigerator storage in the main dining hall.

While our retreat center has limited accommodations primarily reserved for participants, we recognize that many of you may be traveling from afar and wish to share the enchanting beauty of Hawaii with your loved ones. We are open to considering bungalow reservations for non-participants, but please note that prior approval is required.

Additionally, our dining hall will be at full capacity with participants, and meal plans will not be available for non-participants.

Fortunately, there are charming hotels and various accommodations nearby where your family and friends can stay while you immerse yourself in the retreat. We also encourage you to extend your stay in the islands, allowing for quality time with your loved ones before and after the training.

Hawaii Island Retreat is happy to offer the following three (3) days pre/post group room rates at the following rate: 

• Lodge Rooms – $285.00 +tax per night
• Yurts – $175.00 +tax per night
• Bungalows – $295.00 +tax per night

Accommodations must be in the same room as those reserved during the retreat. The room rate is the same for single or double occupancy.

This will need to be arranged directly with Hawaii Island retreat center after you have booked your full retreat with us. 

To join us, book your flight to Kona on the beautiful Big Island of Hawaii. The airport, known as KOA, is located in Kailua-Kona and is serviced by numerous airlines offering direct flights. When planning your journey, we recommend avoiding layovers in Honolulu or Maui to ensure a smoother and quicker trip.

At KOA, you’ll find a variety of rental car options available for easy online booking. Additionally, taxi services are at your disposal, and we will provide more details upon registration. We also encourage ride-sharing and will help connect you with fellow participants looking to share a ride. The retreat center is just about an hour north from the airport.

Public transportation is available but extremely limited to our secluded area. Please check the bus schedule well in advance.

We are happy to answer any other questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to bobbi@inspiredendings.org or charlotte@drchacha.com.