Psychedelic researcher, podcaster and author of: Your Extraordinary Mind: Psychedelics in the 21st Century and How to Use Them

Matt Xavier’s ’The Psychedelic DJ' is a far reaching literary expanse on consciousness exploration and the psychedelic experience. What makes it break through into something unique is Matt’s love and passion for music as the primary vehicle for safe and otherworldly psychedelic explorations. Music has always been my primary first love and grounding rod for my personal journeys. It’s what sparked the discovery of the spirit molecule. This is the first book that mirrors that while also providing a very pragmatic approach to that symbiosis and serves as a blueprint for therapeutic and personal use. This book is highly recommended and is very special.

PhD, author of The Psilocybin Connection: Psychedelics, the Transformation of Consciousness, and Evolution on the Planet—An Integral Approach

The Psychedelic DJ is a clearly written manual on how to approach the vital intersection between music and the psychedelic experience. One of the most powerful influences in a psychedelic journey is the music being played, and Xavier makes this clear. His passion for both fields shines through in his work. Coming into the field as a longtime DJ and being well-versed in the craft, Xavier also steps in as a trained counselor who has worked in the field of addiction for many years. He skillfully presents the techniques of music curation and the overall arc of the psychedelic ceremony, offering well-established protocols and thoughtful suggestions for attuning sound to the client’s inner experience. In addition to recommending the types of music suited for various stages of the journey, Xavier shares numerous track suggestions from his extensive music library—skillfully curated over years. This greatly supports facilitators in crafting playlists that align with and enhance the different phases of the psilocybin experience.

Author of Tuning In: Experiencing Music in Psychedelic States

What distinguishes this book is its meticulously detailed description of the author’s unique approach to psychedelic-assisted therapy. Highlighting his distinctive DJ-informed use of music (with an encyclopedic grasp of ambient/electronica and related genres) as a major organizing principle, he provides a plethora of practical, psychologically and spiritually insightful guidelines for creating ideal conditions for efficacious healing journeys. One senses, in the author, a deeply conscientious, compassionate, and seasoned therapist inspired by a profound understanding of music’s extraordinary healing power.

PHD, researcher and co-author of seminal MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD publications

“The Psychedelic DJ” offers a fresh and practical perspective on the role of music in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Blending the expertise of a seasoned dance music DJ with clinical training, Xavier presents accessible strategies for selecting and using music in psilocybin sessions. The book is rich with musical references and real-world examples, making it valuable both for newcomers and experienced guides looking to refine their playlists. While it doesn’t dive into recent scientific findings, it shines in raising essential questions—such as how to balance pre-planned musical journeys with in-the-moment responsiveness. Thought-provoking and deeply engaging, the book invites therapists, researchers, and music lovers alike to reconsider how sound shapes healing.

MA, Music Therapist, GIM Therapist, Lead Psychedelic Therapist at NOESIS, Copenhagen University Clinic for Psychedelic Research

This is the first book I’ve seen that truly bridges the art of DJing with psychedelic music therapy. It’s both inspiring and practical, offering a fresh, flexible approach to music as a living, responsive part of the therapeutic journey.

Music Producers: Influx, Awakened Souls, Marine Eyes

We've always believed that music is a form of therapy, and The Psychedelic DJ brings that belief into sharp focus. This book beautifully illustrates how the DJ's craft of reading energy, shaping emotional arcs, and creating immersive soundscapes are powerful tools for healing. It's a profound reminder of sound’s transformative potential as it bridges art, ritual and therapeutic practice in a way that will resonate and help many for years to come.

Los Angeles-based DJ & ambient producer

As an ambient music creator, a DJ of more than 25 years, and an educator, diving into this book and seeing another obsessor’s take on harnessing music, medicine, and the art and skill of mixing to create a powerful experience of transformation, has been a true inspiration, an honest breath of fresh air and a reminder of why I do what I do. I particularly appreciate the evenly-distributed focus on the different elements being practiced here, such as the careful consideration of music selection and order, preparation of the space and journey, the medicine itself, and even the inclusion of some of the tech involved, just to name a few. Matt really shows his expertise and dedication here, and I believe that this book will inspire many people to create and help each other heal–something this world is in dire need of.

Producer, Art of Communion

The Psychedelic DJ is a wonderful deep dive into the connection of psilocybin and music as a form of therapy. Whether you are interested in following a path of psychedelic therapy or looking for an alternative form of therapy or interested in the connection between music and psychedelics healing qualities this covers all bases. Matt Xavier’s fascinating book unravels its many layers in a clear and concise structure, and is a definitive educational guide that tracks the past of psychedelics and looks to securing a solid future of alternate therapies utilizing a mix of ancient practices and modern cutting-edge electronic sound sculptures.

Ambient & Techno Producer, Australia

The Psychedelic DJ is a timely and practical contribution that opens essential conversations around ethics, consent, and the role of tradition in transformative musical and psychedelic experiences, offering DJs and facilitators a thoughtful framework without being prescriptive.