DMT (Dimethyltryptamine) is one of the “classic psychedelics”, along with LSD, mescaline, and psilocybin. It produces somewhat similar experiences to these plant medicines, but that’s where the similarities end. Known as the “spirit molecule” due to its intense spiritual experiences, it’s a short-lived but incredibly potent substance.

It’s also produced by the human brain and can be found in various other animals and plants. We don’t yet fully understand why the brain produces this compound or how the mechanism works, but people have had a lot of fun posing theories, suggesting that it may be responsible for everything from dreams to near-death experiences, with some even implicating it with the pineal gland and the “third eye”. (1)

What Is DMT and How Does It Work?

Although DMT is not as common as psilocybin and other psychedelics, it’s vitally important for psychedelic integration practitioners to understand how it works and how to sit with it safely. (2) (3)

DMT is strong but short-lived. It takes anywhere from 5 to 60 minutes to take effect and can last for between half an hour and 4 hours. It all depends on the method of ingestion: (4)

• Drinking Ayahuasca: This psychedelic brew can take up to an hour to take effect, with the peak arriving at around 90 minutes and the experience lasting for up to 4 hours. It also contains various other active compounds, including Banisteriopsis caapi, and ingredients vary by region and preparation. (5)
• Intramuscular Injection: A quick onset of up to 5 minutes, with effects that last for 30 to 60 minutes.
• Smoking DMT crystals: Onset takes just a few minutes and lasts for up to 30 minutes.

The exact experience varies, but many have described it as akin to a near-death experience or like visiting another dimension. In episode 284 of The Psychedelic Podcast, Dr. Rick Strassman discusses how DMT’s visionary states may have influenced many prophetic religious experiences, while in The Telepathic Future (episode 290), David Jay Brown discussed its connection to alien contact experiences. (6)

Smoking DMT vs. Changa: Methods and Safety

Changa is a mix of DMT and a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as Banisteriopsis caapi. This smoking blend aims to prolong and balance the effects of DMT.

In addition to enhancing the experience, changa, which was invented by Julian Palmer, also makes DMT more palatable, as smoking DMT crystals has been likened to toking on burning plasticine. (7)

Changa may be more suitable for inexperienced sitters. Not only is it easier to smoke, but it doesn’t have the same intense onset as DMT crystals. It is also easier to create a small, carefully measured dose, providing a gradual entry into the DMT experience that can then be tweaked to suit the sitter’s needs.

A psychedelic practitioner should always inform their clients of the risks of these plant medicines. Both DMT crystals and changa can trigger strong effects, and the addition of an MAOI in changa necessitates extra caution, as these substances can interact with various medications and foods. (8)

Setting the Stage: Intention and Environment

Set and setting make all the difference in any psychedelic journey, but the profound experiences associated with DMT make them even more important. This is not a recreational substance to sit with on a whim—it’s a potent, mild-altering psychedelic that demands respect.

Every psychedelic integration practitioner should walk their client through the process, considering:

• The client’s intentions (why do they want to sit with DMT?)
• The client’s mindset and experience (are they ready for such a profound experience?)
• The dose (what is best suited to their experience and goals?)
• Their expected outcomes (do they align with the nature of a DMT experience?)
• Their mindset (are they balanced, stress-free, and prepared?)
• Their setting (are they safe, secure, and devoid of distractions?)

The DMT Trip Itself: Shallow vs. Breakthrough

As with any other psychedelic, the dose of DMT determines the experience. The threshold dose for smoked/vaporized DMT is between 2 and 5 mg, going up to 20 mg for a light dose. (9)

At these levels, the experience is often mild and manageable, with closed-eye visuals and tingling sensations akin to moderate doses of psilocybin or LSD.

A strong or breakthrough dose is usually over 40 mg. At this level, the individual may experience rapid ego death, a term that describes a dissolution of the self. Self-awareness breaks down, perception shifts, and a drastic alteration occurs, but it’s from this that the most intense and life-changing experiences are born.

It’s a state that Strassman’s research volunteers described as “being catapulted into other dimensions”.

Navigating Potentially Challenging Experiences

The intensity of a DMT experience and the risk of ill-preparedness means that not all journeys are positive. The individual may feel anxious and panicked. It may overwhelm them, leaving them disconnected during their experience and both drained and alienated after it.

This is where the skills of a certified psychedelic practitioner come into play, as they can prepare the individual and support them through negative emotions and outcomes. The dose is also important, as negative outcomes are more likely with higher doses.

Caution is advised in those with preexisting illnesses, and the risk of seizures, anxiety, paranoia, and negative thoughts means it shouldn’t be combined with other substances, particularly stimulants and drugs that act on serotonin receptors. (10)

Is DMT Right for Everyone?

Psychologist and psychedelic advocate Timothy Leary called DMT the “nuclear bomb of the psychedelic family”. It’s clearly not to be taken lightly and may not be suitable for inexperienced sitters, as well as those with preexisting psychological issues (dissociative tendencies, schizophrenia) and a history of trauma. (11)

As a psychedelic integration coach, you must always assess readiness and ensure there is a proper integration plan in place.

Final Thoughts: Coaching After DMT

DMT is more than just a therapy session. It’s a cosmic download that can greatly impact an individual’s mind and influence their emotions, thoughts, and experiences. At the Psychedelic Coaching Institute (PCI), practitioners are taught how to prepare for psychedelic journeys and how to support individuals throughout. Coaches are not there to provide interpretations or offer their own opinions—it’s their job to keep the individual safe and help them embrace whatever meaning they derive.

If you want to elevate your coaching practice and work with psychedelics, consider PCI’s Practitioner’s Certification Program.