Ketamine for Couples: Transforming Relational Patterns - Chandra Estelle Khalifian, Ph.D

In this episode of The Psychedelic Podcast, Paul F. Austin speaks with Dr. Chandra Estelle Khalifian, a clinical psychologist, relationship researcher, and co-founder of Enamory, about the intersection of attachment science, couples therapy, and psychedelic-assisted healing. Find full show notes and links here: https://thethirdwave.co/podcast/episode-357/?ref=278  Drawing from her work in ketamine-assisted couple therapy and MDMA research, Chandra explores how relationships are shaped by nervous system regulation, attachment wounds, and patterns developed long before adulthood. The conversation examines how ketamine and MDMA can help couples move through rigidity, betrayal, grief, and disconnection by creating greater emotional openness and flexibility. Paul and Chandra also dive into conscious uncoupling, relational growth, community, and the deeper distinction between love as a feeling versus love as a practice. Chandra Khalifian, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, researcher, and educator specializing in psychedelic-assisted couple therapy. She co-founded Enamory, alongside Dr. Kayla Knopp, a private practice clinic, training institute, and research foundation based in San Diego, California. Their work focuses on ketamine-assisted couple therapy, including clinical data collection and therapist training programs designed to support practitioners integrating psychedelic-assisted couple therapy into their practices. Chandra's work bridges attachment science, nervous system regulation, relationship psychology, and psychedelic medicine. Highlights: How Attachment Shapes Adult Relationships Ketamine for Breaking Relational Rigidity Why Secure Attachment Feels Safe MDMA for Betrayal & Repair Conscious Uncoupling Without Hatred Why Love Alone Isn't Enough Healing Grief Through Psychedelic Therapy Couples Therapy as Nervous System Work Episode Links: Enamory Website Enamory Couples KAP Training Enamory on Instagram Dr. Chandra on Instagram Enamory's Ketamine-Assisted Couple Therapy Training Episode Sponsors: The Microdosing Practitioner Certification at Psychedelic Coaching Institute. Golden Rule - Get a lifetime discount of 10% with code THIRDWAVE at checkout Disclaimer: This content is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. We do not promote or encourage the illegal use of any controlled substances. Nothing said here is medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified medical or mental health professional before making decisions related to your health. The views expressed herein belong to the speaker alone, and do not reflect the views of any other person, company, or organization. Third Wave occasionally partners with or shares information about other people, companies, and/or providers. While we work hard to only share information about ethical and responsible third parties, we can't and don't control the behavior of, products and services offered by, or the statements made by people, companies, or providers other than Third Wave. Accordingly, we encourage you to research for yourself, and consult a medical, legal, or financial professional before making decisions in those areas. Third Wave isn't responsible for the statements, conduct, services, or products of third parties. If we share a coupon code, we may receive a commission from sales arising from customers who use our coupon code. No one is required to use our coupon codes.