Good Facilitator and Center Qualities

It can be overwhelming to attempt to assess every facilitator and service center in Oregon for the best fit. Some clients prefer to find a Center they like, and select from the facilitators who practice there. Other clients do the opposite: they find a facilitator they like, and then select from the service centers that facilitator practices at (many facilitators practice at only one center, a few practice at multiple).

Price alone doesn't determine quality. Facilitators by and large set their own pricing with the exception of facilitator groups such as Fractal Health and Radiant Heart Consulting, which impose consistent pricing and standards across facilitator teams. Many service centers with listed 'teams' are actually just a directory of independent facilitators with their own pricing models and packages. Be aware that some facilitators go for quantity and are typically priced low, they make a livable wage through volume. Other facilitators price themselves high because they simply wish to work less, and this is not always an indicator of their quality or expertise.

When selecting a facilitator or Center to work with, look for these positive indicators:

Professional Background: Licensed facilitators with prior professional-level careers in any field - from medical and mental health to business etc - in general have a higher quality work ethic, communication style etc than those who have never held professional jobs or have relied on gig-style work for their primary incomes.

Comprehensive Intake: There should be a fairly thorough screening and 'getting to know you' process that takes safety seriously and doesn't rush anyone into booking. Be cognizant during an initial consult whether the provider truly seems curious about you and your intentions, or seems eager to rush to logistics and booking.

Clear Communication: All providers should be transparent about costs, process, expectations, and potential risks. They should answer questions thoroughly and honestly, and not bad-mouth other providers during intake.

Preparation Emphasis: An ethical provider will insist on adequate preparation time and won't accommodate unrealistic rush requests, in particular with high-risk clients.

Center Environment and Room: Ask to see pictures of specific administration rooms. Look for rooms with solid walls (not just curtains), that have neutral and comforting decor and look to be well-stocked with supplies. You'll need a room with somewhere to lay comfortably, not just sit, so pay attention to furniture size and quality. Ask where the restroom is that you'll be using and how close it is to your room. Ask if there are stairs. Ask about the area of town and whether it feels safe. Feel free to also ask about dosing protocols and whether the center has whole or powdered mushroom products.

Outlier Pricing: Beware of extremely cheap, or outlandishly expensive, facilitators or service centers. They may have predatory pricing models and unfortunately, pricing is something not regulated by Oregon Health Authority at all (there are zero guidelines or regulations on pricing in the Administrative Rule).

Outlandish Claims: Some facilitators, unfortunately, fancy themselves a sort of celebrity, guru, shaman etc. Be aware of power dynamics at play in the psychedelic arena. Also beware of any boasting around high dosing, etc that a facilitator makes. A skilled and ethical facilitator will make your program and session about you, not about them. Facilitators who push certain ceremonial aspects or want to perform during the administration session may not be the best therapeutic fit for a private session (such things are more common in group sessions which can have a more ceremonial aspect).

Concurrent or Prior 'Underground' Involvement: Though Oregon Health Authority prohibits facilitators from operating outside their license by facilitating outside a licensed service center, many still do. Those with extensive underground backgrounds sometimes struggle to differentiate between underground culture and acceptable practices, and professional, licensed services. Some view their licensure simply as a way to practice underground legally, showing little respect for Oregon regulations. Not all facilitators are like this, but feel free to ask them point blank if they have experience facilitating underground, and if so, how they differentiate their practice from legal services. Beware of facilitators who seem dismissive of Oregon law or compliance.

Dosing Bravado: Any reputable, ethical provider will teach clients that 'more is not better'. Avoid providers who seem cavalier about dosing, place emphasis on high doses, or allow for state maximum dosing (50mg) without rationale. Also avoid providers who seem willing to take anyone or who focus on 'having a good time'. Such attitudes and practices can backfire and are more likely to lead to adverse experiences.

continue to the next section to read about typical, real-world client results: