At the Synthesis Institute, we understand that working with non-ordinary states of consciousness requires heightened attention to ethical guidance, as it presents unique challenges that traditional ethics may not fully address.

The Synthesis Code of Ethics and Conduct is intended to be more than just a set of guidelines; it’s a living practice—a set of principles and processes designed to help us all navigate the complex ecosystem of dynamic, emergent, and interdependent relationships involved in psychedelic care.

The Code exists to inspire deep self-reflection and introspection, and we encourage practitioners to sit with it, explore its nuances, and let it guide them in cultivating a practice grounded in integrity, care, and compassion. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your journey, the Synthesis Code of Ethics and Conduct invites you to embrace continuous learning and self-discovery.

What You’ll Find Inside:

• Insights into the ethical complexities of working with non-ordinary states of consciousness.
• A framework that emphasizes safety, integrity, attunement, compassion, transparency, inclusion, and accountability.
• Guidance on navigating ethical questions both as an individual practitioner and within the larger community.
• Practical recommendations for integrating ethical principles into everyday practice, fostering continuous self-reflection and growth.

Key Considerations:

• Guidance for All Roles: While primarily written for practitioners, the Code is also relevant for all professionals within an organization, such as marketing, public relations, and leadership.
• Comprehensive Principles: The Synthesis Code of Ethics and Conduct incorporates decades of accumulated knowledge and best practices in psychotherapy, the psychedelic field, Indigenous traditions, and scientific research.
• Collective Effort: This document is a product of collaborative efforts inspired by several esteemed sources, including the Guild of Guides Netherlands, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), The North Star Pledge, and the Council on Spiritual Practices. We are grateful for the support of many individual collaborators who brought this code to life. See the names listed below.
• Living Document: We recognize that ethical standards evolve. Therefore, the Code of Ethics and Conduct is regularly reviewed and updated by an internal committee of diverse perspectives to incorporate new best practices and ethical considerations.