Survivorship Collective FAQ

What is The Survivorship Collective?

The Survivorship Collective is a nonprofit offering legal, psilocybin-assisted retreats for people living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis. Our 9-week program blends science-backed therapy, Indigenous wisdom, small-group support, and trauma-informed care. This is a space to explore meaning, healing, and connection in the face of illness and transformation.

Is this legal?

Yes. Our retreats take place in licensed psilocybin service centers in Oregon and Colorado. All facilitators are state-certified and every participant undergoes comprehensive medical and psychological screening.

Important: Psilocybin remains a Schedule I substance under federal law. We operate entirely within state law and do not transport or handle psilocybin outside Oregon.

Is there science behind this?

Yes. Leading institutions like Johns Hopkins, NYU, and UCSF have shown that psilocybin can significantly reduce anxiety, depression, and existential distress. Studies also report long-term improvements in emotional well-being and quality of life, often after a single guided session.

Who is this for?

Our retreats are for anyone with a cancer diagnosis, whether newly diagnosed, in remission, or living with chronic or advanced disease. You do not need to be in active treatment to participate.

What makes this different?

We offer a comprehensive 9-week journey:
- State-licensed, trauma-informed care
- Three weeks of preparation and four weeks of integration
- Rooted in Indigenous wisdom and survivor-centered community
- Screened and supported by medical and mental health professionals
- Designed by and for survivors

What does the retreat include?

- Clinical and psychological screening
- Three private coaching sessions and three group sessions
- One legal psilocybin session in a licensed facility
- Three post-retreat integration circles and optional individual sessions
- Healthy meals, comfortable lodging, and time in nature
- Optional creative and embodied practices like art or movement
- A small supportive group of 8 to 12 fellow survivors

Does everyone have a positive experience?

Most participants describe their journey as meaningful and healing. However, 5 to 10 percent of people may have a neutral or challenging experience. This can include emotional discomfort, confusion, or difficult memories surfacing. We prepare participants for this possibility and support them throughout. We also refer to the Challenging Psychedelic Experiences Project for additional resources: https://www.psychedelicexperience.net/

How much does it cost?

The full program costs around $5,000 per person:
- Medical screening: $200
- Licensed psilocybin session: $1,800
- Preparation sessions: $500
- Five-day retreat: $2,000+
- Integration support: $500

We offer sliding scale pricing and fundraising support. As a nonprofit, all contributions go directly toward the cost of care.

Who is it not for?

This may not be appropriate for people with:
- Personal or family history of psychosis or schizophrenia
- Active suicidality or untreated bipolar disorder
- Certain heart conditions or medications that interact with psilocybin
- A desire for a recreational psychedelic experience

Can caregivers attend?

Not yet. We are developing a dedicated program for caregivers. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when it launches.

How do I apply or learn more?

Visit www.survivorshipcollective.com to watch our short film, apply for a retreat, or reach out with questions.