Don’t Sink Podcast
Can Psychedelic Therapy Heal Trauma?
In this deeply moving episode of the Don’t Sink Podcast, Jill Sitnick shares how MDMA-assisted therapy transformed her life after a childhood shaped by neglect, abuse, and complex PTSD. With honesty and warmth, she explains how healing is possible—not through avoidance, but through intentional, therapeutic use of psychedelics in a safe setting. Jill, founder of The Journey Sage, now helps others understand and prepare for this emerging modality.
What Was Jill’s Childhood Like?
- Born into abuse and instability, Jill experienced frequent moves and isolation.
- By age 19, she was on her own, determined not to repeat her parents’ path.
- Her long-term partner provided safety and stability, but after his passing, her unresolved trauma resurfaced as panic attacks and suicidal thoughts.
How Did She Discover MDMA Therapy?
- Jill’s therapist recommended MDMA-assisted therapy after talk therapy failed to help with PTSD.
- The therapy was guided by a licensed psychotherapist and medical doctor.
- She researched the science via MAPS.org and committed to the process with openness and caution.
What Is MDMA Therapy Really Like?
- MDMA is not a trip: It calms the body, enhances empathy, and allows access to trauma without overwhelming fear.
- Sessions lasted 5–8 hours, with eye masks, music, and therapeutic support.
- Jill compared it to feeling “safe at home,” finally able to talk about painful memories.
“For the first time in my life, I felt safe in my body.”
How Did Her Healing Progress?
- Journey 1: Focused on safety, but Jill left the session early. Emotional memories emerged later.
- Journey 2: Jill attempted to control the experience and felt it didn’t work—but deeper healing began to surface days later.
- Journey 3: With MDMA and a small dose of psilocybin, she finally released the “inner child” stuck in a traumatic memory.
Healing unfolded after the sessions through journaling, integration therapy, and reflection.
How Does MDMA Compare to Other Psychedelics?
| Substance | Use Case | Effect Style |
|---|---|---|
| MDMA | PTSD, trauma, anxiety | Empathic, calming |
| Psilocybin | Insight, emotional clarity | Visual, body-mind introspect |
| DMT | Spiritual insights, grief | Immersive, intense visuals |
| 5-MeO-DMT | Trauma release, ego dissolution | Direct, non-visual, potent |
“MDMA puts you beside your memory. 5-MeO puts you in it.”
Key Insights
- MDMA therapy offers a calm, emotionally safe path to facing trauma.
- Integration—not just the session—is essential for lasting change.
- Trauma is stored in the body, not just the mind.
- Psychedelics aren’t magic; they are tools that require intention, preparation, and support.
- Healing doesn’t always feel like fireworks—it’s often subtle, quiet, and internal.
FAQ: Common Questions about MDMA Therapy
Is MDMA therapy legal?
Not yet. FDA approval is expected in 2025. It is legal in clinical trials and in Australia.
Will I hallucinate during an MDMA session?
No. MDMA is not a hallucinogen. Most people feel calm, grounded, and clear.
How many sessions do you need?
Research supports 2–3 sessions for PTSD. Jill had 3 over a year.
Can I do this alone?
No. This is a medical procedure. It should be guided by trained professionals in a safe setting.
