Frequently Asked Questions

Who can benefit from a Dimensions Retreat?

There are a variety of health and wellness concerns that can be helped by psychedelic-assisted therapy at Dimensions. Published trials and recent research show that psychedelics are useful in treating depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, addictions, migraines, post-traumatic stress, obsessive–compulsive disorder, eating disorders and end-of-life distress, as well as in improving general well-being. Importantly, psychedelics also show promise in safely and efficiently treating many of these conditions where other approaches have failed. We only welcome guests who are 19+ years of age.

I am not concerned about my mental health, but I’m curious about psychedelics for improving my general well-being. Is it possible for me to attend one of your Retreats?

Dimensions offers a variety of wellness Retreats for those curious about exploring consciousness, seeking creative problem-solving and probing human potential.

Can I treat my substance addictive behaviour at Dimensions?

Dimensions is not a detox centre. Prior to arrival at any Dimensions Retreat, all our guests first undergo a self-evaluation, and may then proceed to a final evaluation under the expert guidance of our medical team. If anyone is determined to be actively dependant on substances or have a substance use disorder, they will be declined until they have been sober for a significant period of time.

How long is a Dimensions Retreat?

Dimensions Retreats are either four or eight days long to ensure that you are properly supported during your psychedelic experiences.

Is a doctor referral required for participation?

Participation in our programs is not dependent on a physician’s referral, but all guests must participate in our intake and assessment process prior to Retreat, including a medical and psychological assessment to determine your physical and mental readiness for our programs.

Will my insurance cover my Dimensions Retreat?

The nature and level of coverage you are eligible to receive for services should be confirmed with your insurance company directly. Many of our services are provided by regulated and licensed experts, so you may be eligible for coverage for certain services.

What are psychedelics?

Psychedelics are compounds that induce altered states of consciousness. While there are dozens of plant-based psychoactive substances – including tobacco, cacao, coffee and cannabis – there are far fewer naturally occurring psychedelics: psilocybin (a plant alkaloid found in over 200 species of mushrooms), mescaline (peyote, derived from cacti), DMT (ayahuasca) and ergine/LSA. Unlike most other psychoactive substances, psychedelics activate the brain’s serotonin receptors, producing feelings of happiness, focus and calm. Naturally occurring plant-based psychedelics have been used safely and medicinally in Ceremony by ancient and Indigenous cultures for thousands of years.

Which psychedelics do you offer?

Dimensions believes in whole plant medicine. The type of plant-based psychedelics offered at our safe, legal and luxurious Retreats differs depending on local laws in the regions where our locations operate.

Can I book a Dimensions Retreat and NOT engage in psychedelic assisted therapy with cannabis or other plant medicines?

Yes, we do have two-night retreat options at our Dimensions Algonquin Highlands property and upon request we do conduct ceremonies with guests who wish to abstain from plant medicines.

Does cannabis really have psychedelic properties?

When specific strains of cannabis sativa are blended together in a particular way, their psychoactive components – notably, THC, CBD, CBN, CBG and CBC, as well as the terpene profile – can elicit deep psychedelic states similar to other classic psychedelics such as ayahuasca and psilocybin. When used in a therapeutic or ceremonial setting, cannabis addresses physical traumas in the fascia, tendons, muscles and bones – not just the trauma held in nervous system memories, emotions and personality structures.

Are psychedelics legal?

Without exception, Dimensions complies with local laws and only provides plant-based medicines that are legal in a Retreat’s location.

Do you store any psychedelic product on site for guest use?

No, all guests holding medically authorized prescriptions will receive procurement and delivery instructions prior to arrival at a Retreat. We do not offer third party storage, nor do we house or hold any psychedelic product for any purpose at any of our locations.

How do psychedelics work?

When used therapeutically in professionally supervised treatments, psychedelics can help you safely explore past experiences and memories that are normally difficult to tolerate or access. By quieting the part of the brain associated with ego, psychedelics disrupt patterns of negative thinking and allow for the creation of new perceptions. In these expanded states of consciousness, you’re better able to develop – and maintain – a deeper, more compassionate sense of yourself and your place in the world, leading to better mental health and improved well-being.

How safe are psychedelics?

Used therapeutically, psychedelics are low-risk. At Dimensions, safety is our priority. We incorporate multiple measures to optimize your wellness journey and ensure your stay with us is safe and effective from beginning to end.

What is psychedelic-assisted therapy?

Psychedelic-assisted therapy combines psychedelic experiences with complementary therapeutic processes to help you reflect, reset and reconnect.

The therapeutic effects of psychedelics are not due simply to their physiological effects. Rather, they are the result of interactions between these physiological effects, the therapeutic setting and your mindset. Dimensions wellness programs offer a diverse array of therapeutic somatic modalities such as massage, float tanks and acupuncture to help you reconnect to your body. Instruction in breathing, meditation, mindfulness and similar practices deepens your experience. Activities in nature, exceptional culinary selections and the serene design at our luxurious Retreats are essential supports on your journey to well-being. Through all of these elements, our expert team pays careful attention to your emotional, physical, mental and spiritual development.

Is information shared at a Retreat confidential?

Our guests’ privacy is paramount. Any information shared during the Retreat is confidential. Dimensions’ therapeutic staff comprises professionals who hold designations from recognized licensing bodies, and all staff have received extensive training on privacy protocols. Our digital platforms and guest services systems comply fully with HIPAA and PHIPA privacy regulations. Your fellow guests must also agree to maintain the confidentiality of other participants’ experiences and identities.

Do you accept pets on retreat?

YES, we accept pet dogs and therapy pets under these conditions:

Accommodating Your Very Important Pet (VIP): Dogs are not only our cherished pets, but also important partners in our lives and our healing. Dimensions recognizes their contribution to personal wellness and welcomes dogs and service animals at our properties. Below are the expectations for dogs and their owners while they are staying with us:

  • All VIP Dogs should be socialized and comfortable around other animals. Honey, our therapy dog in training will be thrilled to make a new friend.
  • All dogs must be attended and on-leash while outside of their cabin.
  • Guests are expected to pick up all waste from their pet. Bags will be provided as necessary.
  • Dogs may be left unattended in guest rooms, but only if they behave, do not make excessive noise, or cause damage such as clawing or scratching. We do have a dog crate available should guests so require.
  • Dogs are not permitted in the dining and food preparation areas – past the pillar in the lounge. Pets should not be present in the lodge during meal periods.
  • Housekeeping will not enter a guest room with a dog present. Please arrange for a time for service when your dog is out of the room
  • Dogs cannot be left unattended in the lodge or ceremonial spaces.
  • Please share your VIP dog details with us in advance of arrival so they can be appropriately catered to. We will provide a cozy bed, a dining area in the room with bowls for water and food and a towel to dry off after a run in the snow, the trails, or a dip in the lake.

Please note if a team member is required to dog sit due to challenging behaviour in guest rooms there will be a charge of $150 per sitting.

Any significant cleaning will be at a charge of $150. Any damage will be charged according to the nature of the damage.

As some of our other guests may not feel comfortable with dogs, Dimensions reserves the right to ask you to reschedule to a specified pet friendly weekend, or to leave your animal at home.

It is the expectation of the dog owner to manage the behaviour of their dog while at Dimensions. Dimensions will not be held liable for any damage, injury to any pet or injury to others.

For more details on our Privacy Practices, please consult our complete overview.

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