193. Healing Through Ketamine Therapy with Megan Carnahan

In this deeply honest and expansive conversation, Megan shares her journey from a highly sensitive child who learned to shut parts of herself down—to a therapist helping others reconnect with their inner intelligence for healing. We explore how early life experiences shaped her path, the moment yoga reawakened her sensitivity, and how her work has evolved to include innovative therapeutic modalities like ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. This episode offers a grounded, nuanced look at both the promise and responsibility of working with ketamine in mental health care—along with powerful reflections on healing, integration, and the wisdom within. What We Cover in This Episode: Megan’s early years as a highly sensitive child—and how she learned to suppress parts of herself Her role as a “conflict manager” in childhood and early signs of becoming a therapist How yoga,  years ago, reawakened her emotional and intuitive sensitivity Her path into becoming a therapist and how her practice has evolved The integration of ketamine into her psychotherapeutic work Ketamine & Mental Health: How ketamine is used therapeutically to treat depression and other mental health challenges The science behind ketamine—how it opens new neural pathways in the brain Its historical use as an anesthetic, particularly in reducing anxiety and suppressing memory Megan’s personal experience using ketamine as part of her own healing and spiritual exploration A Thoughtful Approach to Ketamine Therapy: Why psychotherapy-led ketamine work is essential (vs. clinic-only experiences) The importance of support, intention, and integration in the healing process How ketamine can help people reconnect with their inner intelligence Important Considerations & Risks: The dangers of unmonitored or improperly guided ketamine use Who may not be a good candidate (including those with high blood pressure or a family history of bipolar disorder due to potential manic activation) Why ketamine is not a “magic bullet,” but one tool within a broader healing journey Healing doesn’t come from outside of us—it comes from reconnecting with what’s already within. With the right support, intention, and care, powerful tools like ketamine can help illuminate that path. Other Episodes: Hypnosis episode (Ep. 72) Unraveling to Heal (Ep. 164 Are You Dysregulated? (Ep. 177) Contact information: https://www.innatepathway.com https://www.instagram.com/carnahan_counseling/ Resources: “How to Change your Mind” Michael Pollan Seasoned Wisdom: Date: April 1st, 11am – 1pm Come soak up the wisdom that only comes from age…A signature event of the Water Bearer Collective in partnership with the Tend HER Wild Podcast. Join the Water Bearer Collective in partnership with Tend HER Wild Podcast hosts Dr. Betsy Rippentrop and Kate Moreland, for a special live podcast event, “Seasoned Wisdom.” This intimate and powerful conversation will feature 4 legendary older women who are overflowing with unapologetic authenticity, hard-won insight, and deep self-trust and wisdom that only comes with age. Event Details: This event will be held at the James Theatre, Iowa City on April 1st from 11am – 1pm. A light lunch will be served and time to network will follow the recording. REGISTER HERE Today’s Episode sponsored by: The Local Hub (https://thelocalhub-ic.com/) Kate Moreland Coaching (https://www.katemorelandcoaching.com/) Dr Yoga Momma (https://dryogamomma.com/) Heartland Yoga (https://heartlandyoga.com/) Want to go on retreat? Want to join Betsy in Costa Rica in May 11-18 2026 at her favorite retreat center to help you connect with your inner healer using yoga, meditation, energy medicine, and creativity?  At this retreat, broadway director Kristin Hanggi is joining to lead on the power of creativity to move us through our collective and personal anxiety.   All the details here! Source