Our Story
About Sacred Counsel
Two paths, one calling. We came together through a shared commitment to supporting others on their journey of healing and awakening.
How We Began
Our Journey to Sacred Counsel
Sacred Counsel was born from a simple recognition: the psychedelic renaissance needs more than just access to medicine—it needs integration, preparation, and ongoing support from experienced guides who understand the full journey.
We met through our shared work in the plant medicine space and quickly recognized a complementary approach. Alexa brings her background in depth psychology, trauma-informed therapy, and years of integration work. Luke brings his training in ceremony facilitation, functional health, and two decades of musical practice in sacred contexts.
Together, we created Sacred Counsel to offer what we wished existed when we were beginning our own healing journeys: intimate, world-class experiences with genuine care before, during, and after. No factory retreats. No spiritual bypassing. Just real, grounded support for real transformation.
From our home base in Valle de Bravo, Mexico—two hours from Mexico City in the beautiful Central Highlands—we host group retreats at an exquisite partner venue and offer private homestays at La Fuente, our personal homestead. We also work with clients globally through online integration therapy.
Co-Founder & Psychotherapist
Alexa Iya Soro
MA, LMHC
Alexa is a licensed mental health counselor with over a decade of experience in ritual healing, grief processing, and plant medicine integration. Her approach weaves together depth psychology, somatic awareness, and spiritual wisdom to support deep transformation.
Trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), ancestral healing, and Buddhist applications of therapy, Alexa brings a unique blend of clinical rigor and spiritual sensitivity to her work. She believes that true healing happens when we can hold all parts of ourselves with compassion.
Before founding Sacred Counsel, Alexa maintained a private practice in psychedelic integration and grief counseling. She continues to see clients individually while also co-facilitating our group retreats and homestays.
Education
- Brown University, BA Psychology
- Salve Regina University, MA Holistic Counseling
- Naropa University, Buddhist Applications of Therapy
Certifications
- IFS Certified
- Ancestral Healing Facilitator (Daniel Foor)
- 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training
Co-Founder & Facilitator
Luke DeStefano
IHP2
Luke is an Integrative Health Practitioner with over 20 years of experience in ceremony facilitation and musicianship. His journey has taken him across Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, Nepal, Costa Rica, and Mexico, studying with teachers in various healing traditions.
A trained Kambo facilitator, massage therapist, and breathwork guide, Luke brings a grounded, embodied presence to all his work. His background in the Dharma Mountain lineage of Mahayana Buddhism informs his approach to holding space—patient, compassionate, and deeply attuned to the present moment.
As a musician, Luke provides the ceremonial soundtrack for our retreats, using voice, guitar, and traditional instruments to support the journey. He also leads our 21-Day Metabolic Detox program, combining functional medicine with Ayurvedic principles.
Training & Experience
- Studies in Thailand, Vietnam, China, Laos, Nepal, Costa Rica, Mexico
- Dharma Mountain lineage of Mahayana Buddhism
- Kambo facilitator, massage therapist, breathwork guide
What Guides Us
Our Values
Safety First
We take safety seriously—medical screening, proper set and setting, experienced facilitation, and integration support are non-negotiable.
Integration Over Experience
The ceremony is just the beginning. We believe the real work happens in integration, which is why we prioritize ongoing support.
Intimate Container
Small groups, personal attention, and genuine relationships. We're not running a factory—we're holding sacred space.
Cultural Respect
We honor the indigenous traditions from which these medicines come, and give back to the communities that hold this wisdom.
Holistic Approach
Mind, body, spirit, community—true healing addresses all dimensions. Our offerings reflect this integrated view.
Reciprocity
We donate 2% of all proceeds to organizations supporting indigenous medicine traditions and psychedelic research.
Our Home Base
Valle de Bravo, Mexico
Nestled in the mountains of Mexico's Central Highlands, Valle de Bravo is a magical pueblo known for its natural beauty, artistic community, and spiritual energy. Just 2.5 hours from Mexico City International Airport, it offers the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion.
The region's pine forests, lakes, and waterfalls create an ideal environment for inner work. The town itself maintains its colonial charm while hosting a vibrant community of healers, artists, and seekers from around the world.
Our group retreats take place at an exquisite partner venue with stunning views, while private homestays are held at La Fuente, our personal homestead with all the amenities for deep healing work.
Get In Touch
Contact Us
Have questions? We'd love to hear from you. Reach out and we'll respond within 24-48 hours.
Based in: Valle de Bravo, Mexico
2.5 hours from Mexico City International Airport (MEX)
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Take the first step toward transformation. Schedule a free discovery call to discuss your intentions and see if our offerings are right for you.