Guilde to Facilitating Sharing Circles at APL Retreat Center

APL Shamanic Journeys education blog
Welcome to the Comprehensive Guide to Facilitating Sharing Circles at APL Journeys Center.
As therapists and facilitators at APL Journeys, we recognize the profound importance of creating safe and supportive spaces for participants to process their experiences and integrate insights gained during ayahuasca ceremonies.
This document serves as a professional resource to guide our therapists and facilitators in upholding the highest standards of care, ethics, and therapeutic efficacy in conducting sharing circles.

Philosophy and Intent of Sharing Circles

At APL Journeys Center, sharing circles are regarded as integral components of the integration process, providing participants with an opportunity to reflect, express, and receive support in a therapeutic context.
Rooted in principles of client-centered therapy and transpersonal psychology, our approach emphasizes the facilitation of self-exploration, emotional expression, and interpersonal connection within a safe and empathetic environment.

Key Principles: Our sharing circles are guided by fundamental therapeutic principles that inform our practice:

  1. Confidentiality: We prioritize the confidentiality and privacy of participants' disclosures within the sharing circle, fostering an atmosphere of trust and safety.
  2. Respect: Every participant is treated with utmost respect, empathy, and non-judgment, recognizing the inherent dignity and worth of each individual.
  3. Support: We offer unconditional support and validation to participants as they navigate their integration process, providing empathetic presence and empathic listening.
  4. Presence: Facilitators maintain a therapeutic presence characterized by attunement, empathy, and genuine engagement, creating a space for authentic connection and emotional processing.
  5. Authenticity: Participants are encouraged to share authentically and vulnerably, honoring their subjective experiences and emotional truths without inhibition or fear of judgment.
  6. Active Listening: Facilitators practice active listening, attending to verbal and nonverbal cues, and validating participants' experiences, fostering deeper self-awareness and insight.
  7. Empathy: Compassionate understanding and empathy are central to our therapeutic approach, creating a supportive and validating environment for emotional expression and exploration.
  8. Community: Sharing circles foster a sense of community and mutual support among participants, facilitating connection, empathy, and collective healing within the group.
  9. Security: We prioritize the emotional and psychological safety of participants, maintaining boundaries, and ensuring that the sharing circle remains a safe and supportive space for all involved.


Structure of Sharing Circles

Our sharing circles are structured to facilitate meaningful and therapeutic interactions among participants:

  1. Facilitators create a physically and emotionally safe environment, incorporating elements of comfort, aesthetics, and ritual to enhance the therapeutic atmosphere.
  2. Opening, facilitating, and closing rituals are designed to establish a sense of containment, intentionality, and coherence within the sharing circle.
  3. Clear guidelines for participation and communication are established, including respectful listening, turn-taking, and adherence to therapeutic boundaries.mind that longer retreat durations often offer a greater opportunity for a profound spiritual effect. In the following section, we will explore some reputable centers and examine their pricing.

Guiding Principles

Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic modalities and best practices in group therapy, our guiding principles for sharing circles include:

  1. Providing a Metaphor: Utilizing metaphors and imagery to frame the sharing circle as a collective journey of exploration, reflection, and integration.
  2. Defining Purpose: Clarifying the objectives and intentions of the sharing circle, including fostering self-awareness, emotional expression, and mutual support among participants.
  3. Respecting Individual Expression: Encouraging participants to share authentically and reflectively, honoring their unique experiences, perspectives, and emotional needs.
  4. Maintaining Therapeutic Boundaries: Facilitators refrain from offering advice, interpretation, or therapeutic interventions, allowing participants to explore their experiences autonomously.
  5. Managing Time Effectively: Setting time limits for sharing to ensure equal participation and facilitate a balanced and coherent discussion within the group.

Closing the Sharing Circle

In Texas, the cost of an Ayahuasca ceremony varies, typically ranging from $600 to $1,000. Two Birds Church, a non-profit organization, offers various services including one-day Ayahuasca ceremonies. They emphasize respect for individuals and rituals, and participants can donate as they see fit. A 2-night and 3-day Ayahuasca ritual at Two Birds Church costs up to an average of $650. Temple of Umi, known for its strict pre- and post-ceremony rules, provides 3-day all-inclusive retreats starting at $995, which include medical and psychological support.

California

Origen Sagrada, a well-known center in Warner Springs, California, offers a five-day retreat for $700. This retreat is distinct for its approach that aligns more closely with Brazilian traditions, featuring ceremonial songs and vibrant shaman attire during the Ayahuasca ceremonies.

Florida & Orlando

If you've been searching for Ayahuasca experiences in Florida, you've likely come across the Soul Quest Ayahuasca Church of Mother Earth. They provide a range of programs that focus on spiritual healing and personal growth. These offerings encompass Ayahuasca retreats, breathwork, spiritual development with Rapé, Soul Quest Integration, Psilocybin Therapy, and Psychedelic Therapy. The cost for a 3-day retreat typically falls around $1,000 for 3 days and 2 nights.


When looking for Ayahuasca prices in Wisconsin, Los Angeles, Nashville, or Toronto, it's crucial to consider various factors before making a booking decision. The final cost can be influenced by several variables, and it's important to remember that the cheapest option may not necessarily provide the best overall experience.

Ayahuasca Cost
South & Latin America

When searching for Ayahuasca prices in South and Latin America, you'll notice a significant variation in costs, ranging from the cheapest ($100) to the most luxurious ones (several thousand dollars). This price range of «best offers» can be attributed to currency fluctuations in different countries and the diverse array of authentic Amazon locations available for these experiences.

Costa-Rica

Costa Rican retreat centers offer a diverse array of experiences to suit various budgets.
  • Soltara Healing Center, renowned for its harmonious blend of Western and traditional healing approaches, provides a luxurious environment with contemporary comforts, including yoga and Ayahuasca ceremonies. The cheapest retreats begin at $3,375 for a 5-night stay and go up to $12,900 for 12-night retreats with private accommodation.
  • Behold Retreats, on the other hand, caters to those seeking a lavish Ayahuasca experience, offering 6-night packages that encompass daily movement and meditation, spa treatments, and poolside yoga. Prices for this high-end journey start at $7,650.

Peru

Peru boasts a significant portion of its territory within the Amazon, granting ayahuasca a legal status in the country (even the Ayahuasca brew, that contains DMT is legal). The law safeguards its traditional usage by indigenous communities, recognizing it as a vital aspect of Peru's national cultural heritage as mentioned in the article "Legality of Ayahuasca". As a result, you'll find numerous jungle camps offering ayahuasca experiences, and it's common to come across "ayahuasca diet" options in local restaurants and souvenirs related to ayahuasca in shops.
Ayahuasca retreat prices in Peru can vary significantly, starting at around $100 in some average jungle camps. It's advisable to choose a retreat led by an experienced guru rather than a group of inexperienced enthusiasts.
Below, we've listed some well-accredited centers along with their pricing:
  • APL Shamanic Journeys being a highly regarded European Retreat Center that exclusively collaborates with indigenous, authentic shamans, we’ve recently introduced a 10-day diet program tailored for experienced participants. If you've already experienced ayahuasca and are seeking deeper spiritual growth, consider the Master Plant Dietas. APL Journeys offers a secure environment in an indigenous jungle camp and guides you through a diet that incorporates three ayahuasca ceremonies, all for $2,200.
Ayahuasca retreat Peru
Teacher-Plant Dietas with APL Shamanic Journeys
  • Soltara Center offers 5-day retreat in a shared Eco-Cabin accommodation in the jungle. Prices start at $2,200 and can go up to $7,250 for a private room during a 5-day retreat in the Sacred Valley within the mountains. Soltara is renowned for its well-organized approach and collaboration with indigenous shamans-gurus and Western facilitators, ensuring a carefully facilitated and transformative experience.

  • The Temple of the Way of Light is a traditional plant-medicine shamanic healing center. They offer a minimum 10-day retreat with prices ranging from $3,000 to $4,500. With over 15 years of experience, they are well-regarded for their deeply traditional approach, ensuring safety and authenticity.

  • Consider Ayahuasca Foundation, a center that not only provides retreats but also offers indigenous diets with Amazonian plants and initiation courses for those drawn to the healing path of ayahuasca. Prices begin at $3,450 for a 10-day retreat, $4,650 for an 18-day retreat, and $5,850 for a 4-week initiation course.

Europe

The geographical distance between Europe and the Rainforest presents a challenge to maintaining the authenticity of the ayahuasca experience. To ensure the presence of authentic shamans, European retreats often need to fly in these spiritual guides, incurring additional costs. Consequently, this can impact the pricing of ayahuasca ceremonies or retreats in countries like the UK, Germany, Portugal, Ireland, or the Netherlands.
Before making any bookings, it is imperative to research the legal status of the center you plan to visit. Check out more in our article "Legality of Ayahuasca". Below, you will find examples of retreat centers in various European countries, but it is crucial to scrutinize all relevant details before embarking on your journey.

Spain

APL Shamanic Journeys specializes in providing traditional Ayahuasca retreats conducted by Peruvian healers in Spain. Their 4-day retreats, commencing at $1,800 per person, encompass a comprehensive experience that incorporates guided meditations, yoga sessions, and nourishing meals. This holistic approach aims to facilitate both healing and spiritual growth.
Ayahuasca retreat Spain
Teacher-Plant Dietas with APL Shamanic Journeys

Portugal & Netherlands

Behold Retreats: These retreats incorporate a range of activities including cleansing ceremonies with medicinal plants, and sessions with healers and shamans, all tailored to the emotional and physical needs of participants. Prices here start at around $7,800 for a 7-day retreat.
• Sinchi Runa: Located in Portugal, Sinchi Runa focuses on silence and introspection. Prices for their 9-day retreat start at approximately $2,199 per person. These retreats offer a holistic integration program, including healing treatments like breathwork, yin yoga, meditation, and massage.

Ayahuasca Retreat Prices for Different Budgets

After reading this article, you've likely come to realize that there are options available for individuals with varying budgets. Those who feel the call of Ayahuasca will undoubtedly find the best offer based on their financial resources. Now, let's explore some of the most compelling choices for different budget ranges.

Luxury / High-End Ayahuasca Retreat Prices

If you're not limited by budget constraints, why deprive yourself of the very best? Ayahuasca is a delicate matter where it's better to invest more to ensure the best effect, the authenticity of the shaman, and the professionalism of the therapists. And a beautiful environment for your optimal well-being is never unnecessary here.
Embark on more than just a retreat; it's a transformative journey to a new world. This is a tailor- made program where we venture to the heart of the Amazon, encountering the indigenous Achuar tribes. We'll gather in Quito and embark on a private jet plane, whisking us away to a high-end Amazon lodge.
These artfully designed cabins offer modern amenities such as hot water and electricity, a rarity in the jungle. Throughout our stay, we'll explore the lush rainforest, embark on canoe expeditions along the Amazon, and partake in four profound ceremonies authentically conducted, mirroring the practices of the Achuar tribe. This immersive experience promises to be unlike any other.
Ayahuasca retreat Ecuador
One in a lifetime adventure with APL Shamanic Journeys
We are excited to introduce our newly launched all-inclusive retreat nestled along the Atlantic Ocean in a magnificent resort. Our team of experienced professionals, including trauma-informed facilitators, therapists, and authentic shamans, is here to guide you on your journey. The new ceremonial space has been designed to provide ample personal space, ensuring that your sacred experience remains undisturbed by any neighboring distractions.

Take advantage of the beautiful beach just moments away, offering opportunities for relaxing walks and swims. To further enhance your retreat, we offer rejuvenating massages, revitalizing yoga sessions, and transformative horse therapy experiences. Leave our retreat feeling deeply relaxed, inspired, and ready to embrace life's journey anew.
APL Shamanic Journeys Retreat in Spain
Unique Authentic & Luxurious experience by the
sea
  • Behold also has a private all-inclusive retreat. Whether you're an individual or a group of friends, this option ensures you'll share the life-changing ritual exclusively with your closest companions. Ayahuasca, often referred to as the "mother of all Amazonian plants," can be even more profound when shared with your family or the closest ones. The advantages of this approach include direct shamanic guidance and the flexibility to tailor the schedule and the number of ceremonies to your unique experience.

  • Rythmia is an all-inclusive luxury resort nestled in Guanacaste. It presents an assortment of holistic practices and programs. With private accommodations, motivational talks, and delectable vegan cuisine, this retreat starts at $8,000 per person.

Mid-Range Ayahuasca Prices

Experience the classic APL retreat at our picturesque Spanish villa nestled in the mountains. As always, our retreats feature an authentic shaman, experienced facilitators, and leading therapists to guide your journey. While the surroundings offer less room for exploration, you'll still have access to a magnificent outdoor pool, an enchanting orange tree park, and a dedicated ceremonial space.
APL Shamanic Journeys Retreat in Spain
Unique Authentic & Safe Experience at the Mountain Venue
This is a more exclusive experience designed for those seeking deeper connections. Our Master- Plant Dieta takes place in an authentic jungle camp, immersing you in the heart of the Amazon. While you'll still enjoy three ayahuasca ceremonies, what sets this experience apart is the "Master-Plant Dieta" between them.

Indigenous wisdom suggests that various Amazonian plants hold unique knowledge, which they are willing to share when your spirit and body are sufficiently purified. This entails following a special diet and consuming plant infusions for approximately 7-10 days. During this period, participants retreat to their jungle huts, refraining from communication with others. Instead, they listen to their inner voice and connect with the spirit of the plant they are dieting with.

This option is cheaper than other retreats 2300€/person, and requires more commitment, but at the same time can grant you more insights after.
APL Shamanic Journeys Center in Peru
Traditional Dietas with Teacher Plant in Pucallpa
  • Soltara Center: Perhaps one of the most renowned and steadfast centers in the Amazon, they provide various pricing options. For a classic experience, a 5-day retreat in Tarapoto at their beautiful "jungle camp" comes for $3,200. You can rest assured that here, authenticity is harmoniously managed with a Western approach.

Cheap / Budget Ayahuasca Trip Price

While we don't typically recommend one or two-day retreats, this niche might offer some of the cheapest options. Prices ranging from affordable $400 to $1000 can be attributed to the shorter duration of stay and fewer included ceremonies and offerings. It's important to remember that for a more profound experience, you may not want to be constrained by time. However, if you're not prepared for such a financial commitment, but still want to experience ayahuasca, there's a more cost-effective option available.
For those seeking a more condensed ayahuasca experience, APL offers a 4-day program that embodies everything APL represents: authentic shamans, Western facilitators, and an on-site therapist. The main distinction lies in the number of ceremonies. The longer program features four full ayahuasca ceremonies, ensuring a profound impact. It allows organizers to tailor the ayahuasca dosage to your specific needs and provides ample time and space for deep inner work. The 4-day program, on the other hand, includes two full ayahuasca ceremonies along with one deep meditation session using a lower-concentration ayahuasca tea. This can still be a profound and interesting journey, but for the deeper effect, we recommend going with a full-length program.

The cost is €1850/person

Short Ayahuasca retreat Spain
One in a lifetime adventure with APL Shamanic Journeys
  • Takiwasi Center: Set in a picturesque indigenous camp deep within the Amazon, don't anticipate luxurious accommodations, but rest assured of the staff's professionalism. The retreat is quite affordable, it costs $1300, but do allocate extra budget for the

Ayahuasca Retreats Spain Price

Explore our exciting 2024 schedule with a brand-new addition – the Seaview retreat. Nestled in a stunning place by the Atlantic Ocean, it offers participants an exclusive chance for refreshing swims and sunbathing at their leisure, thanks to private beach access. Of course, we haven't forgotten our cherished "Mountain-view" retreat at the iconic Spanish villa, beloved and highly praised by our past participants. Browse the dates and select the one that best fits your schedule!
Sunny beach
Retreat
  • Sevilla / Malaga Airport
  • Located two minutes from the beach
  • High-end en-suite rooms
  • Extra large ceremonial space
  • Olive forest with horse riding
7-DAY RETREATS
Shared double suite - 2650€
Private suite - 3500€
4-DAY RETREATS
Shared double suite - 1850€
Only 4 places in each 4-day group

How to Pay for an Ayahuasca Ceremony?

At APL, we've designed a clear and hassle-free enrollment and payment process. Following these guidelines will ensure you secure a spot with APL. Begin your journey by selecting one of our retreats and clicking the "BOOK" button, either above or on the retreat page. Please fill out the corresponding form to get in touch with us. Your memorable experience is our utmost priority, which is why we seek to understand our guests better to cater to their needs effectively. Secure your spot by making the initial payment through your preferred method. Complete our medical questionnaire, which will be carefully reviewed by our medical team. Congratulations! You're now on your way to joining the retreat!

FAQ

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Peru for 7 Days?

The cost of a 7-day trip to Peru can vary widely depending on several factors such as your travel style.

Here’s a rough breakdown:
  • Flights: Airfare to Peru can vary greatly depending on your departure location and the time of year. It's best to check flight prices for specific dates.
  • Accommodation: Costs can range from around $10-20 per night for budget hostels to $50-100 for mid-range hotels, and upwards of $150 or more per night for luxury accommodations.
  • Food and Dining: Daily food costs could be as low as $10-15 using local dining options or much higher ($30-50 or more) if choosing more tourist-oriented or upscale restaurants.
  • Transportation within Peru: Local transportation is relatively inexpensive, but if you're planning on visiting multiple locations like Cusco, Machu Picchu, and the Amazon, costs will increase. Train tickets to Machu Picchu, for instance, can be quite pricey.
  • Activities and Entrance Fees: Tickets to major attractions like Machu Picchu range from $45-70, and guided tours will add to this cost. Other activities like trekking, city tours, and cultural experiences will vary in price.
  • Miscellaneous: This includes shopping, souvenirs, additional activities, tips, and unexpected expenses.

A very rough estimate for a budget traveler might be around $2,500, a mid-range traveler could expect to spend $3,000-5,000, and for a luxury experience, the cost could easily exceed $5,000.

How Much Does a Spiritual Retreat Cost in Costa Rica?

The cost of a spiritual retreat in Costa Rica can vary greatly depending on several factors such as the type of retreat, its location, the length of stay, the amenities provided, and the activities included.
  • Budget Retreats: best offers can start as low as $500 to $1000 for a week-long stay. These often include basic accommodations, communal meals, and a set program of activities such as yoga, meditation, or nature walks.
  • Mid-Range Retreats: These typically range from $1000 to $2500 for a week. They usually offer more comfortable accommodations, a variety of meal options, and additional activities or workshops.
  • Luxury Retreats: For high-end luxury retreats, prices can start from $2500 and go upwards of $5000 or more for a week. These retreats often include private accommodations, gourmet meals, personalized coaching or therapy sessions, high-end spa services, and other luxury amenities.
Remember, these are general estimates and actual prices can vary.
UPCOMING
Ayahuasca Retreats

Connect with Peruvian Shamans in Spain.

Emgark on a once in a lifetime adventure in Ecuador.

Begin your apprenticeship with Teacher-Plants in Peru

SPAIN
SPAIN
ECUADOR
PERU
Mountain Retreat
Sunny Beach Retreat
Journey to Tribes
Teacher Plant Dietas
Sign up for our newsletters
and stay tuned
By clicking on the button, you agree to the processing of personal data and with the privacy policy
Related articles
Learn more about an ancient tradition of Ayahuasca and Amazonian shamanism