the illuminating collective

Find your purpose.
Transform your spirit.
Create your community.

Sacred medicine retreats for veterans, first responders, and civilians seeking deep healing in the Texas Hill Country.
a veteran-owned non profit
texas hill country
A Sanctuary for Transformation
The Illuminating Collective is a non-denominational inner faith entheogenic church dedicated to awakening the human spirit through sacred ceremony, contemplative practice, and transformative community.
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We believe every person has the capacity to heal, grow, and cultivate a deeper relationship with the Divine. Through ethical sacramental practices, intentional preparation, and lifelong integration, we provide a safe and spiritually grounded path to lasting transformation.

One Church. Two Programs. One Shared Mission.
our programs
as seen in
our founding story
Justin LaPree is a Marine, firefighter, and survivor. What began as his own breakthrough became a conviction: that no veteran or first responder should have to reach the edge alone. He built The Illuminating Co. so others could access what saved his life.

Watch his story below.

"The thing that stuck with me from that first experience was that I did not want to die anymore..."

Justin Lapree, founder & president
Sacred medicines

The medicines we commune with.

Every participant completes a health intake and medical screening before starting a program. We believe these medicines can be facilitated safely when each person is thoughtfully screened, dosing is carefully considered, and the journey includes adequate preparation and meaningful integration. Experienced facilitators guide every ceremony. Ibogaine ceremonies also include on-site medical professionals and continuous heart rhythm and vital-sign monitoring. Explore each sacrament and learn what to expect.

The 21-Week Path

Prepare. Commune. Integrate.

Healing doesn't happen in five days. Every signature retreat sits inside a 21-week program that supports you before, during, and long after ceremony.

Weeks 1 to 8 · Preparation
5-Day Retreat
Weeks 10 to 21 · Integration
Phase 1
8-Week Preparation

Personalized one-on-one sessions with our therapeutic professionals prepare you for a safe and soul-immersive retreat.

Phase 2
5-Day Retreat

Immersive ceremonies, breathwork, art therapy, guided meditations, and nourishing cuisine.

Phase 3
12-Week Integration

One-on-one and group sessions, peer accountability, and evidence-based techniques for lasting transformation.

Included
Guided microdosing support during preparation and integration.
See upcoming retreats
Family Matters

How can my loved ones support me during this journey?

Healing doesn't only change you. It changes the people who love you. Family Matters supports the partners, spouses and friends of every participant, with resources and guidance to help you navigate this period of change together.

01

Support calls

A space for loved ones to ask questions, share what they're carrying, and feel supported alongside you.

02

Informational sessions

Clear guidance on what your journey involves, so the people closest to you know what to expect.

03

Skills & tools

Insights and tools that benefit their own wellbeing and open new ways of connecting with you.

Mya Parker
Led by

Mya Parker

Family Matters Program Director

A former Army Officer who served during Operation Enduring Freedom, Mya founded and led a nonprofit for military spouses and has spent 20 years serving families. She believes healing, healthy families of all kinds are the foundation of a thriving world.

Our partners

Held by a wider circle.

The organizations that stand with us to make healing accessible for veterans, first responders, and their families.

Illuminating Future Foundation

Advances mental health and well-being by expanding access to education, resources, and community support. With a commitment to veterans, first responders, and individuals facing financial barriers, we help people overcome life’s challenges, reconnect with purpose, and build brighter futures.

Visit the foundation →

The lifetime transition partner for U.S. Navy SEALs, supporting their health, education, and careers so they can continue a life of service.

Visit SEAL Future Foundation →
Orienne logo

A scored assessment and guided practice program that maps adult psychological development, helping people see and track their inner growth.

Visit Orienne →
Retreat participants sitting in a circle on an outdoor patio
What makes us different
You are not broken. You are carrying something that was never meant to be carried alone.
Conventional medicine treats symptoms. The Illuminating Co. goes to the root. We offer separate programs for veterans and first responders (Illuminating Heroes) and civilians (Illuminating Souls) because the wounds are different, and the healing should be too. As a veteran-owned nonprofit, we are uniquely positioned to hold space for those who have given the most.
Veteran-owned
Founded by a Marine and firefighter who found his way back
Built for those who served
Illuminating Heroes exists to make healing accessible for every veteran and first responder, regardless of their circumstances.
Upcoming retreats

Intentionally small.
Deeply supported.
Life-changing.

resources