> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://global-psychedelic-society.gitbook.io/handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://global-psychedelic-society.gitbook.io/handbook/additional-support/practitioners-and-support-networks.md).
# Practitioners & Support Networks
One important and fairly common function that societies and psychedelic communities can serve is connecting members with experienced guides and practitioners. This is a critical function that comes with ethical and legal responsibilities. A society should consider the potential risks and liabilities when making recommendations or creating a referral system.
### Ethical Considerations
* If a member has a negative experience with a guide, how is the society implicated?
* Everyone has different needs; recommending a guide should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. You should only consider implementing a referral system if you have a diverse selection of practitioners to refer to.
* To mitigate risks, build a small vetted network of 2-3 trusted guides who have been reviewed by your society team.
* Always provide multiple options and empower members to make their own decisions.
### Building a Practitioner Network
* Collaborate with local professionals: Some cities, like Baltimore, have therapist and guide collectives that meet regularly.
* Encourage practitioners to attend your events and engage with the community before recommending them.
* Start a Database: You don’t need a fancy website to get started… start with something simple like a Notion or Air Table database
* Some organizations publicly connect members with guides, while others maintain behind-the-scenes referral networks.
* Example:[ Psycle Clinic](https://www.psycle.clinic/) is one resource for finding reputable practitioners. [Psychedelic Passage](https://www.psychedelicpassage.com/) is another one for the US. [The Flying Sage](https://www.theflyingsage.ca/) is another option for Canada.
### Empowering Members to Choose Guides
* Rather than directly recommending practitioners, societies can provide educational tools to help members make informed choices.
* Share resources like[ How to Choose a Psychedelic Guide](https://psychedelicstoday.com/2018/07/12/find-psychedelic-guide/) to guide members in asking the right questions.
By maintaining ethical referral practices and providing educational resources, psychedelic societies can support members in finding practitioners while minimizing liability.
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