As we head into the summer season, we’re feeling that familiar joy of getting out into the world, reconnecting with our community, and bringing compassionate care into action. Each event we attend offers a new opportunity to practice what we do and deepen our understanding of how to show up for one another.
Next week Zendo Project will be providing peer support, hosting a workshop, and speaking on two panels at Psychedelic Science 2025.
In July, we’ll head to Desert Hearts to offer peer support services with a crew of incredible volunteers. This is our first time supporting this event, and we are excited to be a part of it. Stay tuned for more event services updates later this month.
We’re also celebrating the growth of our education program with two upcoming SIT courses—one in July and one in August.
And if you haven’t already, check out a recent podcast episode that beautifully captures the heart of our work. Event Services Manager Ben Halper shares about why we sit, how we care, and what it means to show up for each other in psychedelic spaces and beyond.
Zendo Project at Psychedelic Science
We hope to see you all Psychedelic Science 2025 next week in Denver.
If you or a friend are feeling overwhelmed and could use support while at the conference, come visit us! We’ll be providing peer support for difficult experiences, psychedelic-related or otherwise, in Room 705, Concourse C.
If you want to learn more about our work (or just say hi), come find us at Booth 320 in the Exhibit Hall. We’ll also have Zendo Project swag, including new t-shirts, crop tops, and hoodies, available for purchase. All proceeds go to supporting our mission.
PS25 Workshop and Panels
Half-Day Workshop: Introduction to Psychedelic Harm Reduction and Peer Support
What: Learn fundamental skills for psychedelic peer support from the Zendo Project team. Agenda will include an overview of peer support and harm reduction, material related to the nature of challenging psychedelic experiences, principles of trauma-attuned care and cultural awareness, the application of Zendo Project’s Four Principles, and how to identify and navigate crisis situations. Expect to engage in learning through lecture, role play demonstrations, and interactive activities. This workshop is open to anyone regardless of previous training or credentials.
When: Tuesday, June 17 | 2:30–6:30pm
Who: Zendo Project Education Team
Use code ZENDO10 at checkout for 10% off workshop registration.
All attendees are eligible for an exclusive discount on summer Zendo SIT courses.
Panel: Navigating Challenging Psychedelic Experiences: Cultivating Presence and Skillful Support
What: Even the most experienced psychedelic sitters can struggle when intense moments arise. Join Zendo Project Lead Educator Simone Weit, LPC, and other harm reduction experts for this panel discussion on staying grounded, providing skillful support during these challenges, and tending to your own well-being throughout the process.
When: Friday, June 20 | 10:15–11am
Where: COMMUNITY – 605
Panel: A Journey Beyond the Psychedelic: Embracing Transformation Through Mindful Integration
What: How can we transform momentary revelation into lasting change? Event Services Director Ben Halper joins Fireside Project, MAPS, Sana Healing Collective, and Heroic Hearts Project in conversation on psychedelic integration.
When: Friday, Jun 20 | 10:30–11am
Where: DOBLIN – 601
Summer Zendo SIT Courses
There is still time to join the upcoming Zendo SIT course meeting on Monday nights in July. Register by July 5 to join us!
Can’t make the month-long course? The August Weekend Intensive delivers the Zendo SIT curriculum at an accelerated pace ideal for working professionals, students, and other learners with full schedules.
Have you benefited from taking the Zendo SIT course? Please consider sponsoring a partial or full scholarship to help us offer this training to underrepresented groups in the psychedelic community.
Nearly 2,000 people have taken the Zendo SIT course. Thank you for helping us expand the culture of compassionate care!
Podcast Spotlight: Talking Harm Reduction with Trust the Journey
“[Someone] came along with a flashlight, and my instinct was: Security guard. Flashlight. You’re about to get in trouble. And instead, it’s somebody coming along to make sure that everybody is okay.”
Zendo Project’s Ben Halper joins Trust the Journey to discuss harm reduction as a movement, bringing peer support into the mainstream, and knowing what to say (or not say) when supporting someone in crisis. Through the lens of compassion and non-judgment, Ben explores how the principles of psychedelic peer support can transform the way we show up for ourselves and others in everyday life.
Visit our website for more interviews, podcasts, and panels featuring Zendo Project!