Frequently Asked Questions

General Psilocybin FAQ's

Microdosing involves taking sub-perceptual doses of a psychedelic substance, meaning the dose is too small to produce the hallmark “trip” or intense psychedelic effects. With psilocybin microdosing, users aim to harness potential benefits without significantly altering their perception or cognitive functions. Here’s what you might expect during a psilocybin microdosing session:

  1. Subtle Effects: As it’s sub-perceptual, the effects should be very mild. You might not “feel” the psilocybin in the way one would during a full dose.

  2. Enhanced Mood: Many microdosers report improvements in mood, including feelings of well-being, optimism, and contentment.

  3. Increased Creativity: Some users find they have enhanced creative thinking, easier access to flow states, or a heightened appreciation for art and music.

  4. Improved Focus: Improved concentration and the ability to stay on task might be noted.

  5. Enhanced Sensory Perception: Subtle enhancements in sight, sound, taste, or touch may occur. Colors might appear slightly brighter, music might sound a bit richer, and so on.

  6. Increased Energy: Some users compare the energy boost to caffeine, but without the jitters.

  7. Improved Sociability: Increased sociability, a sense of connection with others, or increased empathy can occur.

  8. Physical Sensations: Mild physical sensations may be felt, such as a slight increase in energy or a feeling of lightness.

  9. Routine Activities: As microdosing is meant to be integrated into daily life, you should be able to go about routine tasks, work, socializing, etc.

  10. Potential Side Effects: While less common at microdoses, there could still be side effects. Some users report increased anxiety or feeling slightly “off.” There might be a slight feeling of fatigue as the effects wear off.

  11. No Hallucinations: At proper microdose levels, there should be no visual or auditory hallucinations.

  12. Duration: A psilocybin microdose typically has effects lasting 4-6 hours, with some residual effects that might persist a bit longer.

If considering microdosing with psilocybin, it’s recommended to start with a very low dose to gauge individual sensitivity and increase if necessary. Also, users typically follow a regimen, like the “Fadiman protocol,” which involves dosing every three days to avoid tolerance and potential side effects. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about substances and to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding psilocybin.

During a psilocybin macrodosing session, you’re taking a dose that’s large enough to produce a full psychedelic experience. Here’s a general overview of what one might expect:

  1. Onset (20-60 minutes post-ingestion): You might start feeling initial effects such as a sensation of energy or excitement, mild visual changes, and some physical sensations like tingling or warmth.

  2. Visual Effects: Many users report visual enhancements and distortions. Colors can become brighter and more vibrant. Patterns may seem to move or “breathe”, and closed-eye visuals can be quite vivid.

  3. Altered Perception of Time: Time can seem to slow down, speed up, or lose its meaning entirely. Minutes can feel like hours and vice versa.

  4. Emotional Amplification: Emotions are often heightened. Joy can feel ecstatic, and sadness can feel profound. This also means that any pre-existing emotions or thoughts can be magnified.

  5. Ego Dissolution: At higher doses, one might experience a sense of ego loss, where the boundary between the self and the external world blurs.

  6. Deep Insight & Reflection: Many users report profound insights about their lives, relationships, and the nature of reality.

  7. Sense of Connection: A feeling of interconnectedness with nature, other people, and the universe can occur.

  8. Spiritual or Mystical Experiences: Some individuals report experiences that they describe as spiritual, transcendent, or mystical, including a sense of oneness with everything.

  9. Physical Sensations: This can include feelings of floatiness, changes in body temperature, increased sensitivity to touch, and nausea (particularly if ingested as whole mushrooms).

  10. Heightened Sensory Perception: Sounds might be clearer, touch more pronounced, and even taste and smell can be more intense.

  11. Challenging Experiences: Not all aspects of a trip are positive. Some might confront difficult emotions, memories, or fears. This can be therapeutically valuable but also unsettling.

  12. Duration: The main effects of a psilocybin session typically last 4-6 hours, but residual effects can persist longer, and the total experience can last up to 8 hours. After the primary effects wane, there’s often a period of reflection and gradual return to baseline.

  13. Integration Period: After the immediate effects, there’s often a need for integration, where one processes the insights and experiences of the trip. This can take days, weeks, or even longer and can involve journaling, talking with others, or seeking therapeutic guidance.

  14. Safety Considerations: Especially with higher doses, there’s the potential for temporary disorientation, confusion, or anxiety. It’s essential to have a safe setting and ideally a sober, experienced “sitter” to assist if needed.

Every individual’s experience with psilocybin can vary widely based on dosage, mindset, setting, individual biology, and other factors. As with any potent substance, approaching psilocybin with respect, preparation, and caution is crucial.

People can feel something as quickly as 15 minutes after taking their dose, but it can take up to 90 minutes for some people to feel it. Additionally, the feeling of a microdose is typically not a huge profound change, it is a subtle change. The world around you seems a shade brighter. Psilocybin effect duration is similar to antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication. You really notice the changes as it builds up in your system over a couple of weeks. 

The legality of psilocybin is similar to the concept of legality in the cannabis industry – it varies depending on the country and region. To the United States government, psilocybin mushrooms and other psychedelics containing psilocybin are classified as controlled substances and are illegal to possess, sell, or use. Regions within the United States have gone a different direction – for example in Denver, Colorado and Oakland, California psilocybin is decriminalized, meaning that it is still illegal to sell or possess, but law enforcement typically does not prioritize prosecution for personal use or possession of small amounts. Oregon is the first state to outright legalize the possession and sale of psilocybin. Many other states are in the process of rolling out full legalization. 

To ensure the quality and safety of the psilocybin used for microdosing, it is important to obtain it from a trusted source and to test it for purity and potency. All of the psilocybin products served by Project Circle are thoroughly tested for potency and safety by state-licensed laboratories, and all testing results will be clearly indicated on the label of the product you are taking so you can review it before-hand. 

You are in the right place! Project Circle was founded by an Oregon-licensed psilocybin facilitator with extensive knowledge and training around psilocybin. There are also some great resources online, simply google questions and you will find a ton of info! Psilocybin is currently in FDA clinical trials, so there is real scientific data out there for you to discover.

In accordance with state regulations, you must take your psilocybin microdose at the licensed Service Center. Project Circle is initially rolling out two locations in Portland, and one location in Salem, and then will expand as fast we can to offer our service to everyone that wants it in the state! We have worked hard to make this process super fast, easy, and fun!



The amount of time you wait at a service center before you can leave depends on the amount of psilocybin that you consume. This is what the state rules say about the duration of psilocybin sessions:

(b) For clients consuming equal or greater than 2.5 mg and less than 5 mg of psilocybin analyte, the minimum duration of the administration session shall be one hour.

(c) For clients consuming equal or greater than 5 mg and less than 10 mg of psilocybin analyte, the minimum duration of the administration session shall be two hours.

(d) For clients consuming equal or greater than 10 mg and less than 25 mg of psilocybin analyte, the minimum duration of the administration session shall be four hours.

(e) For clients consuming equal or greater than 25 mg and up to 35 mg of psilocybin analyte, the minimum duration of the administration session shall be five hours.

(f) For clients consuming equal or greater than 35 mg and up to 50 mg of psilocybin analyte, the minimum duration of the administration session shall be six hours.

This is a complicated and risky question for us to answer. Ultimately, this is your decision, and you should do as much research as possible and get as much professional advice as possible. This is a new field that requires more study, and this is all about your comfort level. We will say – it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication, including psilocybin, especially if you are currently taking other medications. Psilocybin can interact with certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and certain migraine medications, which can cause adverse effects. In addition, there are some medical conditions that may make it risky to take psilocybin, such as a history of psychotic disorders, heart conditions, or high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before considering taking psilocybin, especially if you are currently taking any other medications. Your healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and advice based on your medical history and current medications. Note that dosage is an important consideration here, and this is a micro-dose, which means it is a relatively small dose.

Project Circle is a psilocybin microdosing and macrodosing program founded in Portland, Oregon by Chris Mitchem.  Project Circle’s mission is to help you be your best self. Life is short, and we want to help you get it right. We are all dealing with baggage, trauma, ailments, addictions, and mental health challenges at some level, and at Project Circle we strongly believe that psilocybin can and will help you control whatever it is you are dealing with so that you can be the best version of yourself. 

Psilocybin is regulated by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA for short). You can find all of the psilocybin regulations here at this link: Link to OHA psilocybin regulations.

In November 2020, Oregon became the first state in the US to legalize the therapeutic use of psilocybin in a controlled setting. Under the Oregon Psilocybin Services Act (Measure 109), individuals can apply for a license to provide psilocybin therapy to adults over the age of 21. The licensing process will be overseen by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), which will establish a regulatory framework for psilocybin service centers. To obtain a license, individuals must complete a training program that covers topics such as psilocybin pharmacology, therapeutic practices, and risk management. They must also pass a criminal background check and meet other requirements set by the OHA. Psilocybin service centers will be required to meet certain standards, such as providing a safe and comfortable environment for patients, following ethical guidelines, and maintaining records of patient information and treatment outcomes. The centers will also be subject to inspections by the OHA.

In Oregon, under Measure 109, with the proper license it is legal to grow psilocybin cubensis. Psilocybin cubensis, also known as magic mushrooms, is a species of psychedelic mushroom that contains the psychoactive compound psilocybin. It is one of the most common species of magic mushrooms and can be found in many parts of the world, including North, Central, and South America, as well as Southeast Asia and Australia. The cap of the Psilocybin cubensis mushroom is typically about 1-8 cm in diameter and has a convex shape when young, which flattens out as it matures. The cap color can range from light beige to dark brown, and it has a distinctive nipple-shaped structure at the top. The stem of the mushroom is typically about 5-15 cm long and 1-2 cm thick, and it is usually white or light brown in color. 

Psilocybin cubensis is a widely cultivated species of magic mushroom, and there are many popular strains available. Here are some of the most well-known strains:

 

  1. Golden Teacher: A highly sought-after strain known for its strong effects and relatively easy cultivation. It has a yellow-gold cap and thick stem.
  2. B+ (Be Positive): Another popular strain that is easy to grow and produces large, potent mushrooms. It has a light brown cap and thick stem.
  3. Penis Envy: A strain that is known for its unique appearance, with a short and stubby stem and a small, dark cap. It is also known for its potent effects and high levels of psilocybin.
  4. Ecuador: A strain that is known for its resilience and ability to grow in a variety of conditions. It has a light brown cap and stem.
  5. Amazonian: A strain that is known for its strong effects and high potency. It has a light brown or yellowish cap and long, thin stem.

 

It’s worth noting that the effects of each strain can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the individual’s tolerance, the dosage, and the environment in which the mushrooms are consumed. When you consume psilocybin at Project Circle, the strain name will be on the label of your microdose so you will know exactly the type of strain (and details on dosage, cultivation date, product safety) before you consume it. Project Circle strongly favors Golden Teachers for microdosing, so all microdoses will be varying dosage sizes of the same Golden Teachers strain. 

Your state-licensed Facilitator will work with you on that. This will depend on a variety of factors, such as your size, experience with psilocybin, and others. Our rule of thumb is that we always start small and work our way up. 

Oregon state law requires that anyone taking a microdose or macrodose must do so on site at a licensed service center, an appointment system is how we keep everything organized. 

Psilocybin microdosing is the practice of taking small amounts of psilocybin, a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in certain species of mushrooms, on a regular basis to achieve subtle, long-term benefits without experiencing intense psychedelic effects. It is believed to work by modulating neurotransmitter systems in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine.

Psilocybin macrodosing refers to the consumption of larger, psychoactive amounts of the compound psilocybin, which is found in certain species of mushrooms commonly known as “magic mushrooms” or “psychedelic mushrooms”. Macrodoses are taken with the intent of inducing a full-blown psychedelic experience, often characterized by alterations in perception, thought processes, mood, and a sense of ego dissolution.

The way psilocybin works in the brain is still an active area of research, but it is understood to primarily affect the serotonin system. Specifically, psilocybin is converted in the body to psilocin, which then binds to and activates serotonin 5-HT2A receptors. This activation leads to a cascade of neural activity and neurotransmitter release, particularly in brain networks associated with mood, cognition, and perception.

The Default Mode Network (DMN), which is a group of brain regions that are active when one is at rest and not focused on the outside world (often linked to self-referential thought processes and the sense of ego), seems to be particularly affected by psychedelics like psilocybin. During a psychedelic experience, the activity and connectivity within the DMN are disrupted, which some researchers speculate may contribute to the feelings of ego dissolution and interconnectedness commonly reported during psychedelic experiences.

Therapeutically, psilocybin macrodosing is being researched for its potential to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction. The profound and sometimes mystical experiences elicited by psilocybin can lead to long-lasting changes in personality, values, and outlook on life, which may contribute to its therapeutic potential. However, it’s important to note that while the potential benefits are promising, the experiences can also be challenging or distressing, so it’s essential to approach macrodosing with respect, preparation, and ideally, under the guidance of experienced professionals.

The typical dosage for psilocybin microdosing ranges from 0.1 to 0.5 grams of dried mushrooms or equivalent in other forms. The active ingredient in psilocybin cubensis mushrooms is called “psilocybin analyte”. For those familiar with cannabis, this is similar to levels of “THC” in cannabis products. Under Oregon State Law a microdose is a dose that is 2.5mg of psilocybin analyte or less. When we determine your unique treatment program we will give you the perfect targeted dosage size, and all of our products are lab-tested by state-licensed labs, so you will know exactly how much you are taking. Project Circle will offer a variety of doses in capsule form that fall under the 2.5mp of psilocybin analyte. We will help you choose the perfect dose for you, and you can adjust as you become more familiar with it. Note: We always recommend starting with a lower dose, and we can increase from there. 

Psilocybin dosage can vary widely depending on the desired intensity of the experience, the individual’s body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and the specific strain or species of mushroom being used. The potency can vary between mushroom batches and species, so it’s essential to be cautious and informed. Here’s a general guideline for dried Psilocybe cubensis, one of the most common species:

  1. Threshold Dose: 0.25 – 0.5 grams
  2. Low Dose: 0.5 – 2 grams
  3. Moderate Dose: 2 – 3.5 grams
  4. High Dose: 3.5 – 5 grams
  5. Very High Dose: 5 grams and above

It’s essential to note the following:

  • Potency: The potency of mushrooms can vary significantly between species and even between individual batches of the same species. For example, Psilocybe azurescens and Psilocybe semilanceata are known to be more potent than Psilocybe cubensis. It’s essential to adjust dosages accordingly.

  • Individual Variation: People can have vastly different sensitivities to psilocybin. A moderate dose for one person might feel like a high dose to another.

  • Setting: The environment in which one consumes the mushrooms can profoundly influence the experience. It’s crucial to be in a safe, comfortable, and ideally controlled setting, especially with higher doses.

  • Therapeutic Context: In clinical research settings where psilocybin is being tested for its therapeutic potential, doses are often administered based on body weight. For example, a typical research dose might be around 20-30 mg of pure psilocybin per 70 kg of body weight.

If someone is considering macrodosing with psilocybin, they should be well-informed about the potential risks and benefits, and it’s advised to start with a lower dose to gauge individual sensitivity. It’s also essential to be in a supportive environment, and having an experienced guide or “sitter” can be beneficial. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about substances.

There are many different ways to consume psilocybin. Some people prefer to eat dried mushrooms, some prefer to brew the dried mushrooms into a tea, and some prefer to grand dried mushrooms into a power, encapsulate them, and consume them in a capsul (like taking a pill). What’s important to measure is your dosage. That is easiest to do when the psilocybin comes in a capsule – so we know exactly how many milligrams of the active ingredient (psilocin analyte) you are consuming. At Project Circle we offer both capsules and consumption of dried mushrooms depending on the preference of the client. 

Advocates and preliminary research suggest that microdosing may enhance creativity, focus, and mood, leading to improved productivity and overall well-being. Additionally, some studies have indicated that microdosing could assist in the alleviation of symptoms associated with conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Though still in its nascent stages, the promise of psilocybin microdosing lies not only in its potential direct cognitive and emotional benefits but also in its ability to offer a novel approach to mental health and wellness without the immersive and sometimes challenging experiences associated with full psychedelic doses.

Macrodosing psilocybin, or taking amounts that produce full psychedelic experiences, has garnered significant interest due to its potential therapeutic benefits. While more rigorous and large-scale research is needed, several studies and anecdotal reports have pointed to a range of potential benefits:

  1. Mental Health Improvement: Numerous studies have found that psilocybin can have profound effects on mental health. Clinical trials have shown promise in treating conditions like depression, anxiety (especially end-of-life or cancer-related anxiety), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

  2. Addiction: Preliminary studies suggest that psilocybin, in conjunction with therapy, might help individuals combat addictions, including alcoholism and tobacco dependence.

  3. Personal Growth and Insight: Many users report profound insights during their experiences, which can lead to positive changes in personal values, attitudes, and behaviors. This includes increased openness, improved relationships, and a greater sense of purpose.

  4. Reduction in Ego Centrality: One of the hallmark effects of psychedelics is a sense of “ego dissolution” or feeling a diminished sense of self. This experience can lead to a feeling of interconnectedness with others and the universe, which can be therapeutic and transformative.

  5. Enhanced Creativity: Some individuals report increased creative insight and problem-solving abilities after a psychedelic experience.

  6. Existential and Spiritual Insight: Psilocybin can induce mystical or spiritual experiences, which can have lasting positive effects on well-being, life satisfaction, and a sense of meaning. For some, this can provide comfort regarding existential concerns, like the fear of death.

  7. Increased Neural Plasticity: Preliminary research suggests that psychedelics might increase neural plasticity, potentially making the brain more receptive to new ways of thinking and breaking out of entrenched patterns.

  8. Enhanced Therapy Outcomes: When used in conjunction with psychotherapy, psilocybin can potentially enhance the therapeutic process by allowing individuals to confront and work through challenging emotional and psychological issues.

Despite these potential benefits, it’s crucial to approach psilocybin use with caution. Macrodosing can lead to challenging experiences, including intense anxiety or paranoia. Additionally, individuals with a personal or family history of psychotic disorders or other severe mental illnesses might be at increased risk of adverse reactions. As with any substance, the potential risks and benefits should be carefully weighed, and professional guidance should be sought when considering therapeutic use.

Potential risks or side effects of psilocybin microdosing may include headaches, nausea, increased anxiety or paranoia, and interactions with other medications. Note that risks increase with higher dosages, Project Circle only serves low doses, or “micro-doses”. 

Macrodosing psilocybin, while holding potential therapeutic benefits, is also associated with several risks and side effects. Here are some of the potential risks and side effects:

  1. Challenging Trips: While many psychedelic experiences are reported as positive or even transformative, some can be intensely distressing or frightening. These challenging trips can result in panic, paranoia, or a feeling of losing touch with reality.

  2. Physical Side Effects: Common physical side effects include nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, dizziness, dilated pupils, impaired coordination, and changes in body temperature.

  3. Impaired Judgment: During a psychedelic experience, an individual’s judgment can be significantly impaired. This can lead to risky behaviors or situations, especially if not in a controlled environment.

  4. Potential for Harm: Especially without a sitter or guide, there is the potential for physical harm due to impaired judgment or coordination, ranging from accidents like falls to more severe risks.

  5. Psychological Risks: Individuals with a personal or family history of psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia) or other severe psychiatric conditions may be at increased risk of adverse reactions, including potential triggering or exacerbation of symptoms.

  6. Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder (HPPD): Some users report persistent visual disturbances after using psychedelics. This condition, known as HPPD, involves “flashbacks” or recurrent hallucinations and visual disruptions, though it is relatively rare.

  7. Depersonalization or Derealization: Some users might experience feelings of being detached from themselves (depersonalization) or from the world around them (derealization). While these feelings might be transient for most, they can be persistent and distressing for some.

  8. Anxiety and Paranoia: Psilocybin can intensify feelings of anxiety or induce paranoia during the trip, and for some users, these feelings might persist afterward.

  9. Potential for Misidentification: If foraging wild mushrooms, there’s a risk of misidentification. Consuming toxic species can be lethal or cause severe health issues.

  10. Drug Interactions: Psilocybin might interact with other substances or medications. For example, combining it with other drugs that affect serotonin levels, like SSRIs (commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety), can alter the effects or increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

  11. Legal Risks: Psilocybin remains illegal in many jurisdictions, so possession, sale, or use can result in criminal penalties.

It’s essential for anyone considering psilocybin macrodosing to be informed about these risks and to take precautions. This includes being in a safe and controlled setting, having a trusted and sober “sitter” or guide, and being aware of one’s personal health and psychological vulnerabilities. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about substances.

The Project Circle team will come up with the right treatment plan for you, but we generally recommend four doses per week, ideally on consecutive days, and then three consecutive days off. Why? We have seen anecdotally (there isn’t a ton of formal research on this yet) that the psilocybin will still work on the off days, and taking the off days will prevent you from building up any sort of tolerance to the medication. However, everyone is different, some may feel better doing up to seven doses per week, some may want to start doing one dose per week, it is totally up to you and whatever you are comfortable with! That is why we have a one size fits all monthly membership plan, one simple fee with no hidden fees, and you can adjust your plan in whatever way feels right to you, and we will be there to guide you and help you as you go. 

The frequency and duration of macrodosing psilocybin is contingent upon various factors, including your goals, health, individual sensitivity, and context.

In traditional or ceremonial settings, the use of psychedelic substances is often spaced out, with significant time between sessions for integration and reflection. In the modern context, some considerations include:

  1. Therapeutic Context: In clinical trials studying psilocybin for therapeutic purposes, sessions are typically spaced out by several weeks or even months. The spacing allows for psychotherapeutic integration, where participants work with therapists to process and integrate their experiences.

  2. Tolerance: Psilocybin produces rapid tolerance, meaning that if you take it multiple days in a row, the effects will be diminished on subsequent days. This tolerance can last for several days but generally resets after about a week or so.

  3. Integration Time: Many users and experts emphasize the importance of taking time to integrate the insights or experiences from a trip before embarking on another. Integration involves reflecting on and understanding the experience and its implications for one’s life.

  4. Mental Health: Regular use of any psychedelic can be mentally taxing and can exacerbate underlying mental health issues. It’s essential to monitor one’s psychological well-being and be wary of frequent use, especially if experiencing negative emotional or psychological effects.

  5. Physical Health: While psilocybin is generally considered to have a low toxicity profile, regular use might have unknown or unstudied impacts on physical health.

  6. Setting and Preparation: It’s essential to ensure you’re in a safe, supportive setting every time you macrodose. Preparation should also involve having a trusted sitter or guide, especially for higher doses.

  7. Duration: The question of “for how long” is subjective. Some individuals find value in periodic use throughout their lives, while others might engage with the substance for a specific period or until they achieve a particular goal. Regular, long-term use, however, is less common and less studied.

If you’re considering using psilocybin, whether for therapeutic, personal, or other reasons, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research, consult with knowledgeable professionals, and ensure you’re adhering to local laws and regulations.

In the world of psychedelics, taking a micro-dose is anecdotally regarded as a bit easier to prepare for than taking a large dose. This is in large part because you should not feel any psychoactive effects when you take a micro-dose. Generally, the important preparation is doing your research before your first dose because we want you to feel comfortable doing this, and getting all of the knowledge around it will likely make you feel more comfortable. We have tried to anticipate and answer all of your questions on our site, but text or email us if we missed something ([email protected]), and there are also a ton of resources on the web to give you more details. 

Preparing for a psilocybin macrodosing session is crucial for ensuring a safe and beneficial experience. The preparation process can be divided into physical, mental, and environmental preparations:

  1. Set Clear Intentions: Understand why you want to have this experience. Whether it’s for healing, personal insight, or spiritual exploration, having a clear intention can guide the journey.

  2. Educate Yourself: Read about the effects of psilocybin, potential risks, and benefits. Familiarize yourself with both the pleasant and challenging aspects of the experience.

  3. Physical Preparation:

    • Diet: Some people fast for a few hours before the experience to reduce nausea, a common side effect. Others might opt for a light, easily digestible meal.
    • Avoid Alcohol and Other Drugs: Mixing substances can be unpredictable and increase risks.
    • Stay Hydrated: Have water available during the session.
  4. Mental Preparation:

    • Mindset: Your emotional and mental state leading into the experience can influence its trajectory. It’s helpful to approach the experience with an open and curious attitude.
    • Know Your History: Be aware of any personal or family history of mental health issues. Psilocybin can amplify emotions and could exacerbate underlying mental health disorders.
  5. Choose a Safe and Comfortable Setting:

    • Location: Choose a quiet, familiar, and comfortable location where you won’t be disturbed. Nature settings can be particularly conducive to positive experiences, but ensure safety and privacy.
    • Avoid Distractions: Turn off your phone or put it on airplane mode. Inform close friends or family that you’ll be unavailable for a certain period.
  6. Have a Sitter: Especially if it’s your first time or if you’re taking a high dose, it’s advisable to have a trusted, sober individual present. They can provide reassurance, guidance, and safety.

  7. Prepare Your Space:

    • Comfort: Have soft blankets, pillows, and maybe even an eye mask.
    • Music: Some find that ambient, lyric-free music or nature sounds can enhance the experience.
    • Snacks: Prepare some light snacks for when the effects wear off.
    • Art Supplies: Some people find it therapeutic to draw or write during the comedown.
  8. Plan for Integration: Think ahead about how you’ll reflect on and integrate the insights from your experience. Some find journaling, talking with close friends, or seeking professional therapeutic guidance helpful.

  9. Legal Considerations: Be aware of the legal status of psilocybin in your jurisdiction.

  10. Duration: Ensure you have a clear schedule with no responsibilities for the duration of the trip and ideally some time afterward to relax and reflect.

  11. Know Your Substance: If you’re not using synthetic psilocybin or a trusted source, there’s a risk of misidentification with wild mushrooms, some of which can be toxic.

Remember, while preparation can set the stage for a positive experience, the nature of psychedelics means that experiences can be unpredictable. Always approach with respect and caution.

Potential benefits of psilocybin microdosing may include improved mood, creativity, focus, empathy, and overall well-being.

Project Circle FAQ's

Project Circle is a licensed Psilocybin Service Center based in Portland, Oregon. It was the 5th licensed psilocybin service center in the world. It is located in one of Portland’s most popular and safe neighborhoods, the Sellwood neighborhood, located at 5903 SE Milwaukie Ave. Project Circle serves large doses of psilocybin, called macrodoses, and small doses of psilocybin, called microdoses. 

Yes, Project Circle is legal in Oregon. This initiative operates under Oregon’s legal framework established by Measure 109, which was passed to allow the therapeutic use of psilocybin, a psychoactive compound found in certain mushrooms. This measure makes Oregon the first U.S. state to legalize and regulate psilocybin therapy. Project Circle offers both microdosing and macrodosing programs with licensed facilitators in a controlled setting, ensuring compliance with state regulations managed by the Oregon Health Authority. These regulations include strict guidelines on licensing, safety, and operational standards for psilocybin service centers​

Please see our pricing page for the most up to date information. 

Everyone interested in Project Circle, whether microdosing or macrodosing, starts by filling out this form