Jude O'Higgins, PhD
Clinical Psychedelic Chaplain
Millcreek UT
As a clinical chaplain trained in transpersonal neuro-psychoanalytical psychotherapy, I offer a deeply integrative and grounded presence in my work with clients. My approach is informed by years of experience in both clinical and ceremonial settings, and I specialize in supporting individuals through transformative experiences with a focus on inner alignment, embodied healing, and multidimensional integration.
I currently offer in-office Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) sessions in collaboration with a trusted medical provider. These sessions are held with deep respect for the client's own inner healing intelligence, which I engage through focused listening, active witnessing, and trauma-informed care.
My background in anthropology and spiritual care allows me to meet people where they are—culturally, emotionally, and spiritually. I often work with animistic metaphors and symbolic language to help clients connect to deeper layers of meaning, guiding them through multidimensional integration processes following psychedelic and/or spiritually transformative experiences.
I support clients in learning to prioritize self-care, develop healthy boundaries, and explore shadow work, ancestral healing, and the often-overlooked trauma that can arise from the misuse or misunderstanding of psychedelic substances.
One of my specialties is sonic drum induction—a therapeutic use of rhythm and sound that facilitates altered states of consciousness and supports neuro-regulation. In this work, the drum serves as a form of medicine, shifting brainwave states and creating space for profound insight and transformation.
My intention is always to hold space for clients with curiosity, compassion, and attunement, supporting each person’s journey toward integration, wholeness, and authentic expression.
I have been drawn to the mystery and medicine of non-ordinary states for as long as I can remember. From a young age, I cultivated an intimate relationship with the natural world and the realm of spirit, which continues to shape my path as a guide, witness, and companion in the healing journeys of others.
My life has always been infused with creative expression—writing, art, dancing, and engaging with the arts as a way to bridge inner and outer worlds. These practices are not separate from my work, but integral to how I understand and support the human experience—through embodiment, play, and soulful inquiry.
I hold a PhD and bring a scientifically grounded perspective to my work, while remaining deeply attuned to the subtle, symbolic, and spiritual dimensions of life. I often say I walk in two worlds: honoring both empirical knowledge and intuitive knowing, data and dreams, structure and surrender.
My training includes anthropology, clinical chaplaincy, as well as psychedelic-assisted therapy programs with CIIS, MAPS, and Polaris, and my work is shaped by mentorship with traditional healers in Peru. I view healing as a holistic and relational process, one that unfolds in layers—personal, ancestral, collective, and ecological.
I believe that every person carries within them an inner healing intelligence, and that when we reconnect with this inner wisdom, we begin not only to heal ourselves, but to participate in the healing of our lineages, communities, and the Earth. My work is ultimately in service to this greater wholeness.
My offerings are designed to support individuals and communities in navigating the full spectrum of human experience—from altered states to the everyday sacred. Each program is grounded in presence, reverence, and a commitment to holding space for what is real, tender, and transformative.
Multidimensional Integration Sessions
These sessions are tailored for individuals who have experienced psychedelic journeys or spiritually transformative experiences and are seeking support in making meaning of those experiences. My integration work is both clinical and ceremonial, weaving together psychological insight, somatic awareness, ancestral perspectives, and symbolic or mythic framing. This work supports the continued unfolding of insight, healing, and embodiment.
Spiritual Nervous System Regulation
I support clients in regulating their nervous systems through a spiritually grounded lens, viewing the body as both biological and energetic. Rather than pathologizing dysregulation, I honor it as a sacred communication from the soul and body.
Using somatic practices, breath and sound work, rhythmic drumming, and elemental metaphors, I help clients access safety, presence, and coherence. This work weaves trauma healing with spiritual integration, inviting deeper self-trust and connection to something greater.
Sonic Drum Induction
Using only the medicine of rhythm, this practice involves deep listening to repetitive drum beats to alter brainwave states and open access to non-ordinary states of consciousness. No psychedelic substances are used—just the power of sound, intention, and somatic awareness. This is ideal for those seeking expanded states in a grounded and embodied way.
Grief Witnessing Circles
Inspired by Quaker principles, these small group gatherings offer a space for people to be seen and heard in their grief—without fixing, advising, or trying to change what is. Together, we practice the art of compassionate witnessing, trusting that presence itself can be profoundly healing. All forms of grief are welcome.
Death Cafés
These gatherings create space for open, philosophical conversations around death and dying. In a warm and informal setting, participants are invited to explore their thoughts, fears, and curiosities about mortality. The intention is to normalize the dying process and bring more awareness, honesty, and life to the way we relate to death.