My Journey of transformation
Hello, and thank you for visiting my website. I’m Dr. Darragh Stewart, a mentor, guide, and facilitator dedicated to supporting individuals on their journeys toward self-discovery and healing. I’m originally from Dublin, Ireland but currently living in Cork, and my academic background is rooted in the sciences. I hold a Ph.D. in Plant Developmental Genetics from Trinity College Dublin, where I immersed myself in the complex, interconnected world of plant molecular genetics. Yet, while I pursued scientific knowledge, my path ultimately led me to explore a deeper, more holistic understanding of healing, personal growth, and mental well-being.
Passion for Psychedelic Science and Men’s Development
Currently, my work centers on psychedelic science, with a particular focus on the role of plant medicines and psychedelics in mental health. I’m dedicated to bridging these ancient healing practices with modern therapeutic frameworks, which I bring to life through Inwardbound Psychedelic Retreats in the Netherlands. Here, I work with an experienced, multidisciplinary team to create transformative spaces for individuals seeking personal growth, healing, and greater alignment.
Transformative Journey
From a young age, I was drawn to the mysteries of ritual, Celtic spirituality, and mysticism, as well as to the vast realms of science. This early fascination developed into a profound journey of personal and spiritual growth that truly accelerated in my mid-twenties. During this time, I experienced what many would call a “dark night of the soul,” brought on by the pressures of completing my Ph.D., a painful breakup, and the loss of a close family member. This period was marked by a deep bout of depression, intense anxiety, and existential questioning, which eventually manifested as physical pain throughout my body. There came a point when I could no longer endure the suffering—it was an awakening that set me on a path of inner healing, self-understanding, and profound change.
Exploring Healing Modalities
This turning point propelled me to explore a variety of healing modalities, tools, and traditions, each offering unique insights into the mind, body, and spirit. My journey with psychedelic medicines and holistic healing practices proved transformative, leading to a breakthrough that forever changed how I viewed myself and the world around me.
Spiritual and Personal Development Work
Having journeyed through those dark days, I am now passionate about helping others who may benefit from the insights and lessons I’ve gathered along the way. This passion led me to train in Holistic Massage Therapy and later pursue bodywork as a powerful means for emotional and physical healing. Over a period of five years, I travelled to India to deepen my studies in Tantra, Yoga, Meditation, and relationship work. I completed both a Vipassana 10-day silent retreat in Bodh Gaya and a Buddhist 10-day silent retreat in Dharamshala. These experiences brought me deeper into my own healing journey and instilled in me the value of silence, presence, and groundedness.
In 2018, seeing the growing need for healthy masculinity and support for integrating altered states of consciousness, I co-founded a men’s group in Dublin known as the Psychedelic Brothers of Ireland. Since then, we have welcomed over 800 men into our circles, creating a space for men to connect, explore their inner worlds, and support one another in honest, vulnerable ways. These gatherings have grown into monthly circles, workshops, retreats, and online seminars for men, where I offer guidance through 1:1 mentoring as well.
Inwardbound Psychedelic Retreats
In that same year, I co-founded Inwardbound Psychedelic Retreats in the Netherlands. Together with a skilled, compassionate team, we facilitate high-dose psilocybin sessions, blending scientific approaches in the tradition of Stanislav Grof with Celtic and world shamanic practices. Each retreat is paired with a personalised preparation and counselling therapy program, preparing participants for the journey inward and supporting their integration afterward. To date, we have had the privilege of guiding over 1,000 individuals through their psychedelic journeys. I also offer guidance for microdosing practices and provide integration consultations to help individuals bring their experiences into daily life in meaningful, grounded ways.
Training and Further Learning
My ongoing journey has led me to train as a shamanic practitioner and complete certifications in Counseling and Psychotherapy through the Irish School of Shamanic Studies. I have also completed Levels 1 and 2 of ISTA’s Sexuality Training and continue to support their programs as an assistant at both level 1 and 2. I believe in the importance of continually learning and growing, drawing from both ancient wisdom and modern therapeutic practices to offer holistic support to those I work with.
If you feel called to explore this journey of self-discovery and healing together, I would be honored to walk part of this path with you. Please feel free to get in touch to learn more or to book a session.
