The purpose of this Inclusion and Exclusion Policy (“Policy”) is to establish guidelines for the fair and equitable selection of participants for the Spinoza Experience (the “Program”) and to ensure that the Program remains accessible and inclusive to all interested parties, while preserving the safety, integrity, and quality of the experience for all participants.
This Policy applies to all individuals seeking to participate in the Program, as well as to the staff, volunteers, and other parties involved in the administration and operation of the Program.
In order to maintain the safety and well-being of all participants, certain individuals may be excluded from participating in the Program. Participants will not be eligible to join the Program under the following circumstances:
a) The participant or a first-degree family member has a current or past history of a clinically diagnosed psychotic disorder.
b) The participant has a current or past history of diagnosed psychiatric disorder or suicide attempts.
c) The participant is currently using, or has recently used, any of the following medications or supplements:
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
• Lithium carbonate
• Amphetamines
• Antipsychotics
• Central nervous system (CNS) depressants or tranquilizers (e.g., Xanax, Ambien)
• Supplements such as 5-HTP or St. John’s Wort
d) The participant has a resting blood pressure equal to or greater than 140/90mmHg.
e) The participant is currently undergoing treatment for alcohol or drug dependence.
All potential participants must undergo a screening process to determine their eligibility for the Program. This process may include, but is not limited to, the completion of a questionnaire, an interview, and/or a review of medical records. Participants who do not meet the eligibility criteria outlined in Section 3 will not be permitted to participate in the Program.
All personal and medical information collected during the screening process will be treated as confidential and will only be shared with relevant staff members and medical professionals on a need-to-know basis, in accordance with applicable privacy laws and regulations.
Appeals and Accommodations
a) Appeals: If a potential participant is deemed ineligible for the Program, they may appeal the decision in writing to the Program’s designated appeals officer within a specified time frame, as determined by the Program. The appeals officer will review the appeal and provide a written response within a reasonable timeframe.
b) Accommodations: The Program is committed to making reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities or other special needs, whenever possible, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. If a potential participant requires accommodations to participate in the Program, they must submit a written request detailing the specific accommodations needed. The Program will review the request and determine whether the accommodations can be reasonably provided without compromising the safety and integrity of the Program.
This Policy may be amended from time to time at the sole discretion of the Spinoza Experience. Any amendments will be communicated to all relevant parties in a timely manner.