Healing Escapes

Healing Escapes runs small wellness retreats on Jamaica’s north coast, at Discovery Bay and Tower Isle among other places, where guided psilocybin sessions are optional. Its founder, Dr Magalie Piou-Brewer, is a licensed clinical professional counsellor.

Approach

Dr Piou-Brewer also leads MPB Group, an outpatient mental health clinic she has built over more than 20 years, and works as a psychedelic guide. Her team includes licensed counsellors, psychologists, a couples psychologist and a licensed practical nurse, several of whom also act as guides. Guests who choose psilocybin take a small dose at the welcome dinner and later have a guided one-to-one session. Around that sit yoga, tai chi, massage, reiki, sound bowl ceremonies, art integration and meals by Jamaican chefs. The organisers say they care about integration and clarity more than peak experiences.

Who it is for

Many guests, the organisers say, are founders, clinicians, executives and caregivers facing burnout, grief or a transition. Heal the Healer, for people in caring professions, carries up to 3 continuing education units, and there are also mother and daughter, couples and spa retreats. Qualifying Jamaican residents pay a reduced rate.

Practical details

Retreats last three or four nights in private villas by the ocean or the beach, with groups of six to eight. Prices run up to $4,500, and a 20 per cent deposit holds a place. Psilocybin, if chosen, costs $75 in cash on the island. Airport transfers are included.

Care and safety

Each guest completes a screening application, and the team then talks through intentions, strengths and challenges. Trained facilitators and medical staff work at each retreat, with emergency protocols, and a facilitator stays with each guest through the psilocybin session. The organisers hold the retreats in Jamaica because psilocybin use is legal there. Nobody is photographed without written consent, and integration referrals follow the retreat.