Microdosing Ketamine: Everything You Need to Know About the Breakthrough Therapy w/ Dr. Sharon Niv

In this episode, Dr. Sharon Niv discusses her work at Joyus, a public benefit company focused on revolutionizing mental health care through personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments.    Dr. Sharon explains the history of ketamine as a treatment for mental health, its mechanisms of action, and the importance of community support in the healing process.    Nick asks Dr. Sharon questions that address common concerns and stigma surrounding ketamine treatment, emphasizing its low risk and potential benefits.    Their conversation also explores the role of neuroplasticity in mental health recovery and the future of AI in therapy.    Dr. Sharon provides insights into personalized treatment protocols and encourages both patients and therapists to consider the benefits of ketamine therapy.   Key Takeaways:    Dr. Sharon Niv is a cognitive psychologist bridging neuroscience and therapy. Joyus offers personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments. Ketamine was first synthesized in the 1950s and is used safely in medical settings. The drug has shown promise in treating severe depression and suicidality. Ketamine works primarily on the glutamate system, unlike traditional psychedelics. Lower doses of ketamine can provide therapeutic benefits without destabilizing experiences. Community support is crucial for individuals undergoing ketamine treatment. Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt, which is enhanced by ketamine. Personalized treatment protocols are essential for effective ketamine therapy. AI has potential in mental health, but should not replace human therapists.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sharone Niv and Her Work 02:58 The Journey to Psychology and Entrepreneurship 05:47 The History and Safety of Ketamine 08:45 Ketamine as a Treatment for Mental Health 11:36 Understanding Ketamine's Mechanism and Effects 14:44 The Psycholytic State and Its Benefits 17:40 Addressing Stigma and Concerns Around Psychedelics 20:48 The Joyus Approach to Microdosing Ketamine 23:24 Personal Experiences and Emotional Release 26:45 The Importance of Connection and Exploration 27:14 Exploring Psychoactive Substances and Their Impact 28:14 The Tragic Story of Matthew Perry 32:56 Neuroscience and Mental Health: The Role of Neuroplasticity 39:45 Personalized Treatment Protocols for Mental Health 45:22 Community Support in Mental Health Treatment 47:48 The Future of AI in Therapy 53:07 The Dark Side of AI in Mental Health 54:37 Innovative Uses of AI in Therapy 56:09 Training Therapists for New Technologies 59:43 The Journey of Integrating Ketamine Treatment 01:02:09 Encouragement for Patients and Therapists 01:04:22 Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Ketamine 01:09:52 Navigating the Decision to Try Ketamine 01:12:08 Practical Considerations for Microdosing Ketamine Find Dr. Sharon Niv here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyous.team/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyous.friends   Website: https://www.joyous.team/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-niv/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/joyousteam/ Find Nick Thompson here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/  |  https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/     UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/  Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/