Q & A NOTES – Groundwork Program

Practical questions

Q: Is the program mostly online?

A: The Groundwork Program is designed as an online and in person hybrid program with live meetings via ZOOM. In person meetings consist of two in-person experiential retreats in Oregon, one day of meeting a person as a cohort in your region and meeting in home groups of 3-5 people in your cohort monthly (to the degree possible based on your location). 

Q: I’m not good with technology. Can I still do the program?

A: Yes! Our online programs are tailored to be rudimentary and straightforward. Someone from the team will be available to help you get started if you are having trouble. 

Q: How lengthy should our answers be in the application forms?

A: Answer in a way that best gives us the info about you that you feel is important to share. If we need more information about an area we can follow up in the interview process to go into the questions in greater detail. 

Q: Will our financial ability or where we land in tuition range determine our eligibility to be considered for the programs?

A: Applicants will be considered first and foremost on the basis of their application information and readiness for the program. Balancing the tuition composition of a cohort is considered to make the program viable, but not a prominent determining factor. 

Q: Do I need to send financial documents for the tuition assessment process?

A: The forms associated with the application process will walk you through the process. 

Q: What kind of work load can I expect for Groundwork?

A: Moderate / Part time. You should be able to still work, attend other classes, or otherwise tend to your life. 

Q: Is there much outside work expected, reading, research, etc…in the Groundwork program?

A: There are readings, videos, some preparation that will assist in having a fulfilling experience and getting the most out of the program. The amount of time this takes will depend on your level of engagement with the materials. 

Q: Will the Psychedelic Guide Apprenticeship Program start immediately after the Groundwork Program is complete?

A: Yes, the PGAP will begin a few months after Groundwork is complete. 

Q: How will I be able to use the certification being offered  if I become a guide through Gather Well? 

A: Our goal is to align with the standard and regulations so that as policy changes with regard to legalization, we are in compliance. For example our apprenticeship program has been designed to adhere with the Oregon State requirements. 

Q: Where can I find a guide?

A: There are service centers in Oregon conducting regulated use. A quick online search can help you locate those. 

Program Logistics and Approach

Q: How many people will there be in each cohort? 

A: We are aiming for 12-15 individuals per cohort. We aim for 3 cohorts to begin at the same time and interact during a few program elements such as guest speakers and affinity group workshops.  

Q: Will Gather Well be teaching a 1:1 format of psychedelic work or primarily group work in its Apprenticeship program?

A: Gather Well will be teaching group style format. If a student wishes to learn 1:1 skills, there will be some additional courses needed. 

Q: Is Gather Well teaching from an Indigenous lineage?

A: Gather Well is informed by a specific lineage (Mazatec), but we won’t be “teaching” the practices from it. We will be teaching the principles; such as connection to place, land, ancestors, and one’s helping foster a deeper connection to one’s own specific lineage. 

Q: Does Gather Well engage in reciprocity? 

A: Yes, there is a fund set up that is fed by a percentage of the program’s profits as well as a relationship with a specific family in the region from which our lineage of practice is rooted.

See Groundwork Program for more information and to apply.