Living Medicine

Gina Giorgio is the Director of Strategy and Development at Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP), the largest youth-led network working to end the War on Drugs through evidence-based, compassionate, and human rights-aligned policies. In her role, she helps lead federal and state efforts in psychedelic and cannabis policy reform, promotes drug education, and creates career-building opportunities for young people interested in advocacy. Gina is also the Founder of Carolinas for Care, which expands access to psychedelic medicines for veterans and others disproportionately impacted by trauma. In this episode… Psychedelic medicine is moving into serious conversations about research, policy, and clinical care. As access expands, how can states, clinicians, and advocates prepare responsibly while prioritizing safety, training, and equity? Gina Giorgio's answer is to build the infrastructure before approval arrives. As a psychedelic policy and advocacy expert, she emphasizes the need for relationship-based advocacy, state-level engagement, and thoughtful implementation. Gina recommends contacting legislators and tracking funding opportunities as policy continues to evolve. Central to her guidance, she also emphasizes preparing clinicians through better training pathways, prioritizing insurance and Medicaid coverage, and ensuring therapists and medical professionals help shape regulations rather than reacting to them later. The path forward requires both urgency and care. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Gina Giorgio, Director of Strategy and Development at Students for Sensible Drug Policy (SSDP) and Founder of Carolinas for Care, to discuss psychedelic policy reform. Gina shares how veteran mental health shaped her advocacy, what the recent executive order means for psychedelic treatment access, and the importance of clinician training and state-level action.

Roman Palitsky, PhD, is the Director of Research Projects for Emory Spiritual Health and a Research Psychologist for Emory University School of Medicine. His research examines how culture, spirituality, and health interact, focusing on the biological, psychological, and social pathways that shape health outcomes. Dr. Palitsky is also an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University and conducts research to make behavioral and psychedelic therapies more culturally responsive and effective. He leads the Post-Psychedelic Challenges study. If you or someone you know has experienced difficulties after taking a psychedelic, consider participating in this paid study: Post-Psychedelic Challenges Study In this episode… Psychedelic therapies are often framed as breakthroughs — but what happens when the experience doesn't go as expected? As these treatments gain popularity, a more complex reality is emerging: Profound healing can coexist with confusion, distress, or even lasting challenges. How can clinicians and patients navigate the full spectrum of psychedelic experiences? Roman Palitsky, PhD, a research psychologist specializing in the intersection of spirituality and mental health, emphasizes that both benefits and harms can arise from the same experience — and both deserve careful attention. He encourages clinicians to validate patients' narratives rather than forcing meaning too quickly, focusing first on stabilization before interpretation. Dr. Palitsky also recommends preparing clients thoroughly, monitoring readiness, and recognizing when difficult reactions signal the need to pause or adjust care. His guidance centers on curiosity, humility, and using a broad clinical toolkit to support recovery and growth. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Roman Palitsky, PhD, Director of Research Projects for Emory Spiritual Health and Research Psychologist for the Emory University School of Medicine, about adverse effects in psychedelic therapy. Dr. Palitsky explains how psychedelics reveal key questions about the mind, why adverse experiences must be studied alongside benefits, and how clinicians can support patients through challenging outcomes.

Eric Sienknecht, PsyD, is the Co-founder and Psychologist at Polaris Insight Center, a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy clinic and training center. As a licensed clinical psychologist, he has experience treating trauma, mood disorders, and chronic pain by integrating psychedelic experiences into therapeutic care. Eric has received advanced training in KAP through the Ketamine Training Center and in MDMA-Assisted Therapy through the LYKOS MDMA Therapy Training Program.  In this episode… As psychedelic therapy gains momentum, clinicians are grappling with how to balance structure, safety, and trust in a client's inner process. How can therapists support deep psychological healing in altered states of consciousness? According to KAP clinical psychologist Eric Sienknecht, effective therapy begins with trusting the client's inner healing intelligence. He emphasizes the importance of presence, attunement, and relinquishing the urge to direct or interpret too quickly. Rather than leading, therapists can use simple, open-ended prompts like "What are you noticing?" while staying attuned across verbal, somatic, and emotional levels. Eric also highlights the value of personal therapeutic work and self-awareness to avoid imposing agendas, ultimately supporting a more authentic and client-led healing process. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Eric Sienknecht, PsyD, Co-founder and Psychologist at Polaris Insight Center, to discuss supporting clients during psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Eric shares his psychedelic healing journey, the role of inner-directed therapy, and how therapists can attune to clients across multiple levels of experience.

Peter Corbett, LICSW, is the Founder and Executive Director of Kapstone Clinics, a network of mental health clinics focused on integrative and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy services. He is a seasoned clinical social worker and psychotherapist with more than 30 years of experience across private practice, hospitals, and community mental health settings. As a leader in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Peter serves as a trainer, faculty member, and co-director of related clinical and educational programs.  In this episode… The key to lasting psychological change isn't about fixing what's broken — it's about expanding what's possible. Many people find themselves stuck in deeply ingrained emotional and behavioral patterns, unable to break free despite years of effort. How can alternative approaches offer a more effective path forward? Seasoned clinical social worker and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy expert Peter Corbett maintains that genuine transformation begins by loosening rigid neural patterns and creating space for new ways of thinking and living. He recommends combining ketamine experiences with intentional integration, encouraging clients to rewrite themselves by clarifying who they want to become. Peter also highlights the value of mindfulness practices, supportive therapeutic relationships, and safe, structured environments to sustain change. Lasting growth comes from combining expanded awareness with deliberate action. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Peter Corbett, LICSW, Founder and Executive Director of Kapstone Clinics, to discuss ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for mental health. Peter explains how ketamine disrupts rigid mental patterns, the importance of integration and identity transformation, and why multidisciplinary care models are essential for safe and effective treatment.

Marcela Ot'alora is a Psychotherapist, Artist, and Researcher at Memoru, a nonprofit organization focused on psychedelic education, clinical care, training, and research. For over 25 years, she has treated trauma and PTSD using MDMA-assisted therapy. Previously, Marcela was a Principal Investigator and Trainer at MAPS, where she conducted Phase II and III clinical trials for the use of MDMA in treating PTSD.  In this episode… Healing from trauma isn't about erasing the past — it's about changing your relationship with it. How can therapists be present in their clients' journeys without losing themselves in the process? What anchors practitioners and participants in wisdom and safety? According to MDMA clinical trial investigator Marcela Ot'alora, healing begins with discovering the part of ourselves that is not traumatized. Rather than trying to eliminate pain, she encourages learning to live alongside it differently. For practitioners, Marcela emphasizes deep self-awareness, integrating one's own history, and cultivating attunement through embodied presence rather than intellectual analysis. When therapists do their own integration work, they can meet clients with steadiness and authenticity. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Marcela Ot'alora, Psychotherapist, Artist, and Researcher at Memoru, about healing, attunement, and psychedelic therapy. They explore how MDMA transformed her relationship with trauma, the differences between MDMA and psilocybin experiences, and why integrated presence is essential for ethical, effective practice.

Dana Lerman, MD, is the Founder of Skylight Psychedelics, a company that trains therapists in psychedelic‑assisted therapy and provides medically supervised ketamine and psychedelic interventions. As a physician trained in internal medicine and infectious diseases, she was the Co-founder of The COVID Consultants, a national COVID-19 consulting and testing firm. Dr. Lerman has received certifications in psychedelic therapy, Internal Family Systems, trauma, and ecotherapy. In addition to Skylight Psychedelics, she co‑founded Starlight Clinical Research and volunteers with harm‑reduction and psychedelic supportive care projects like The Zendo Project. In this episode… As psychedelics become more integrated into mainstream therapy, the challenges of preserving tradition while ensuring safety and effectiveness remain at the forefront of this evolving field. How can professionals bridge this gap? Physician turned psychedelic therapy practitioner Dana Lerman, MD, suggests blending indigenous wisdom with modern therapeutic practices. She emphasizes the importance of proper preparation and informed consent for psychedelic experiences, ensuring that participants understand both the potential benefits and risks. Safety, trust, and a deep respect for the medicine are key components of a transformative psychedelic journey. By honoring these traditions and fostering a sense of community, practitioners can create healing environments that respect the individuals and the medicines. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Dana Lerman, MD, to talk about the integration of indigenous practices into psychedelic therapy. Dr. Lerman shares her thoughts on the importance of preparation in psychedelic work, the role of indigenous wisdom in modern therapy, and the need for a strong community during psychedelic experiences.

Jason Konner, MD, is the Co‑founder of Psychedelic Oncology, an initiative exploring the intersection of psychedelic‑assisted healing and cancer care. As a medical oncologist, he spent over two decades treating patients at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Konner integrates relational and existential support into oncology to expand clinicians' understanding of how these therapies might ease existential distress in people facing serious illness. In this episode… Cancer care is not just about fighting the disease — it's about addressing the profound emotional and existential challenges patients face. How can healthcare providers support patients' mental and emotional needs while navigating these difficult journeys?  According to psychedelic oncologist Dr. Jason Konner, psychedelics, particularly psilocybin, can offer profound emotional relief to cancer patients by helping them address existential distress — something often overlooked in traditional oncology care. He emphasizes the importance of self-care for healthcare providers, suggesting that personal experiences with psychedelics can help combat burnout and improve the quality of care. By focusing on emotional and spiritual healing, doctors can support their patients through difficult diagnoses. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Jason Konner, MD, Co-founder of Psychedelic Oncology, to discuss the intersection of oncology and psychedelics. Dr. Konner explains how psychedelics help cancer patients confront existential fears, the need for psychedelic literacy among healthcare providers, and how providers can avoid burnout through personal healing practices.

Nicolas Grundmann is the Co-founder and CEO of Ember Health, which provides IV ketamine treatments for depression. As a board-certified emergency medicine physician, he launched Ember Health to create more effective, patient-centered treatment options. Nicolas is also a faculty member at the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists and Practitioners, and is the Co-founder of Chenla Children's Healthcare, which improves pediatric care in Cambodia.  In this episode… Mental health treatment is evolving as clinicians search for options that outperform traditional approaches. From data-driven care to treating trauma, anxiety, and depression together, how can clinicians create evidence-based ketamine treatments? According to emergency medicine physician Nicolas Grundmann, effective ketamine treatment starts with rigorous evidence, longitudinal data, and close care coordination. He emphasizes symptom-driven dosing, regular measurement using validated tools, and proactive follow-up to catch relapses early. Clinicians should also integrate outside therapists, help patients relearn emotional regulation after depression lifts, and avoid one-size-fits-all models.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Nicolas Grundmann, Co-founder and CEO of Ember Health, about evidence-based ketamine treatment for depression. Nicolas talks about using real-world data to guide care, treating depression with comorbid PTSD and anxiety, and whether to include therapy during ketamine sessions.

Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Many people exploring mental health treatments seek options that go deeper than traditional talk therapy. They want approaches that help them access, process, and move through the patterns that keep them stuck. How can you determine which tools support meaningful change? According to psychologist and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy specialist Dr. Sandy Newes, the solution lies in combining medicine with skilled therapeutic guidance. Preparation, integration, and a strong relational container turn chemical experiences into transformation. Dr. Newes recommends working in a structured series of sessions, tracking the narrative and the body, and ensuring clients feel safe enough to explore difficult material. This process can open space for clarity, emotional release, and genuine healing. In this episode of Living Medicine, Chad Franzen of Rise25 hosts Dr. Sandy Newes, Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute, to discuss ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for trauma care. Dr. Newes talks about its unique clinical utility, common misconceptions about dosing, and how trauma-informed care shapes the therapeutic experience.

Dr. Raymond Turpin is the Clinical and Executive Director of The Pearl Institute, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing trauma-informed care and psychedelic-assisted therapies. He has worked in psychiatric hospitals, psychiatric emergency units, residential treatment facilities, juvenile detention, schools, and community mental health clinics. Before The Pearl Institute, Dr. Turpin co-founded Jackson County Psychological Services, which provided free and reduced-cost mental health services to the students and families of the Jackson County Public School system. In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted therapy is reshaping how clinicians understand trauma, resilience, and healing. With veterans, first responders, and countless others still struggling despite traditional treatments, many are wondering whether a different therapeutic pathway is finally within reach. What happens when medicine, neuroscience, and expanded states of consciousness converge? How can clinicians bring innovative treatments to people who need them most? With decades of experience in trauma-focused psychology, Dr. Raymond Turpin believes that meaningful healing begins by accessing the deeper layers of the psyche that conventional talk therapy often can't reach. He emphasizes the importance of preparation, safety, and intentional integration, noting that even profound non-ordinary experiences require commitment and follow-through to create transformation. Relational support, skilled guidance, and a willingness to engage with inner material can catalyze healing. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Dr. Raymond Turpin, Clinical and Executive Director of The Pearl Institute, about psychedelic-assisted trauma therapy. Dr. Turpin shares his path into MDMA research, how his team became an expanded access site treating four clients, and why his view of ketamine evolved through clinical experience.

Karen Sprinkel is an individual and family trauma therapist with over 30 years of practice experience. As a licensed therapist in multiple states, she combines modalities, including EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients healing from complex trauma. Karen is also a continuing education provider and the author of The Thriving Self. In this episode… As more clinicians and healers turn to ketamine, MDMA, and other medicines to heal trauma, the line between therapeutic experiences and therapy often blurs. How can practitioners ensure that these experiences heal rather than harm? According to trauma clinician Karen Sprinkel, trauma healing requires both depth and discernment. She cites experiential training, client choice, and flexibility as the pillars of safe psychedelic work. Karen also encourages clinicians to recognize trauma across cognitive, somatic, and spiritual dimensions and to prioritize integration and humility in their practice. Effective healing is intentional, informed, and compassionate.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with individual and family trauma therapist Karen Sprinkel to talk about trauma-informed psychedelic care. Karen explains what defines a trauma specialist, how to safely prepare clients for psychedelic sessions, and the importance of flexibility and client agency in healing trauma.

Ken Weingardt, PhD, is the Director of Training and Education and a Clinical Advisor at Heroic Hearts Project, which provides psychedelic psychotherapy for veterans. He has over 20 years of experience designing and implementing web and mobile health programs at the US Department of Veterans Affairs. As a licensed clinical psychologist, Ken provides psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy treatments to veterans.  In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted therapy is evolving from a fringe theory to a promising modality for healing trauma, particularly among veterans. As traditional treatments often fall short, many are wondering how these medicines can be integrated safely and effectively into clinical and community settings. What makes psychedelic work transformative, and what safeguards make it ethical? According to psychologist Ken Weingardt, the key lies in preparation, integration, and respect for each client's cultural and emotional context. He recommends understanding moral injury, survivor's guilt, and the unique reintegration challenges veterans face. Additionally, clinicians should pair evidence-based methods with peer support and recognize that healing begins after the medicine.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Ken Weingardt, PhD, Director of Training and Education and a Clinical Advisor at Heroic Hearts Project, to discuss how psychedelics support veteran healing. He describes the use of MDMA therapy for trauma, the role of peer support in recovery, and why integration and community are essential for lasting transformation.

Matt Zemon is the Co-founder and CEO of HAPPŸŸ, a mental wellness company focused on psychedelic-assisted ketamine therapy. In his role, he leads the company's vision to expand access to safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted ketamine therapy through telemedicine. He also oversees clinical quality, technology innovation, and integrative care programs that blend neuroscience, mindfulness, and digital tools. He is the author of multiple books, including Psychedelics for Everyone, Beyond the Trip, and The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics. As a leader in psychedelic wellness, Matt consults with clinicians and spiritual practitioners to integrate psychedelic protocols into thoughtful healing frameworks.  In this episode… Psychedelics are transitioning from underground traditions into mainstream clinical use, sparking both excitement and debate. How do these medicines hold psychosocial and spiritual significance that modern practices should embrace? Psychedelic wellness leader Matt Zemon argues that while clinical research is critical, the vast majority of psychedelic use occurs outside medical models. He highlights the role of community, integration, and spiritual connection in healing. Rather than relying on sterile clinical settings, Matt advocates for intentional, compassionate spaces that nurture meaningful transformation. He maintains that although these medicines are catalysts for change, they are not standalone cures.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Matt Zemon, Co-founder and CEO of HAPPŸŸ, to discuss the intersection of science, spirituality, and community in psychedelic work. Matt shares how group settings reinforce interconnectedness, how psychedelics help people align with themselves, and how ketamine can foster transformation and spiritual experiences.

Licia Sky is the Co-founder and Global Ambassador of the Trauma Research Foundation, a nonprofit organization advancing research, education, and treatment in trauma and healing. As a somatic educator, artist, singer-songwriter, and bodyworker, she trains mental health professionals to use movement, writing, theater exercises, voice, and meditation as tools for attunement, healing, and connection. With over 25 years of practice, Licia's work integrates body-based therapies, polyvagal theory, parts work, and trauma-science research to help individuals recover from emotional and physiological dysregulation. In this episode… Creating a safe space for people processing deep trauma is both an art and a discipline. Therapists working with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy must help clients navigate intense emotions and memories by ensuring they feel secure and supported. What practices can therapists leverage to foster trust and transformation? Somatic educator and trauma expert Licia Sky emphasizes deep, agenda-free presence. Authentic attunement begins with the client noticing their bodily sensations and slowing the pace of interaction to invite others into awareness. Through slow curiosity, facilitators can encourage clients to stay with physical sensations before forming mental narratives, allowing trauma to surface without overwhelm. Licia also warns against viewing psychedelics as a quick fix and underscores the need for careful preparation and integration to turn profound experiences into lasting growth. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Licia Sky, Co-founder and Global Ambassador of the Trauma Research Foundation, to talk about embodied trauma healing and psychedelic therapy. Licia explores how slowing down and cultivating temporal awareness creates safety, how slow curiosity helps clients process trauma safely, and why integration before and after psychedelic work is critical for meaningful, lasting change.

Rutger Engels is the Co-founder and Director of Senz, a treatment center for anxiety and depression in the Netherlands. He is also a Professor of Developmental Psychopathology at Erasmus University Rotterdam, where his research centers on early substance use, depression, and anxiety in youth. Previously, Rutger served as CEO of the Trimbos Institute, which is the Netherlands' national mental health and addiction institute. Shiva Thorsell is the Co-founder and Clinical Psychologist at Senz. With over 25 years of experience in specialized mental healthcare, she serves as a senior instructor and supervisor in the postgraduate training of health psychologists. Shiva is skilled in therapeutic approaches, including Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP), Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), body-oriented mentalizing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). In this episode… In the evolving field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, new treatments and models of care are challenging traditional approaches to mental health. How can an intensive, multidisciplinary method provide lasting breakthroughs for people struggling with depression, trauma, and anxiety? Mental health researcher Rutger Engels and clinical psychologist Shiva Thorsell advocate for a combination of evidence-based methods and innovative practices like ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. They maintain that individualized, modular treatment programs allow them to tailor care for each client. Rutger and Shiva also emphasize intensive approaches, structured group therapy, and lifestyle interventions like running as key tools for deep and lasting change. These research-driven, yet compassionate treatment models can open new pathways to recovery.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Rutger Engels and Shiva Thorsell, Co-founders of Senz, to talk about building a multidisciplinary clinic that integrates psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. They discuss the importance of individualized modular treatments, how intensive programs foster deeper healing, and how to integrate ketamine-assisted psychotherapy responsibly.

Will Van Derveer, MD, is the Co-founder of Integrative Psychiatry Institute, a practice that trains clinicians in holistic mental health care. He is also the Medical Director of the Integrative Psychiatry Healing Center, which provides holistic mental health care. With over 20 years of experience in psychiatry, Dr. Van Derveer specializes in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, somatic techniques, EMDR, and internal family systems. He has also co-authored research on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and was a co-investigator in the Phase II clinical trials sponsored by MAPS.  In this episode… Many mental health practitioners feel limited by conventional psychiatry's narrow approaches, which often leave patients struggling despite treatment. While medication and talk therapy can help, some individuals remain stuck in cycles of trauma, depression, or anxiety that resist these methods. How can integrative approaches and altered states of consciousness offer a more effective path to healing? According to holistic psychiatrist Dr. Will Van Derveer, expanded states of consciousness like those induced by MDMA, ketamine, or psilocybin can help patients break free from rigid thought patterns and reconnect with a deeper sense of self. He maintains that cultural humility, ethics, and integration work are crucial for achieving long-term results. Dr. Van Derveer also guides practitioners to slow down, stay curious, and avoid imposing their personal beliefs on clients. Tune in to this episode of Living Medicine as Dr. Sandy Newes welcomes Dr. Will Van Derveer, MD, Co-founder of Integrative Psychiatry Institute, to discuss integrating psychedelic therapy into mainstream mental health care. Dr. Van Derveer talks about training practitioners in psychedelic work, matching various psychedelic medicines to patient needs, and maintaining curiosity in facilitation.

Dr. Ron Siegel is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, where he has taught for over 40 years. As a clinical psychologist in private practice, he has worked with low-income children and families, treated adults with chronic pain and stress disorders, and provided mindfulness-oriented psychotherapy. Dr. Siegel has written and edited several books, including Mindfulness and Psychotherapy, The Mindfulness Solution, Sitting Together, and Wisdom and Compassion in Psychotherapy.  In this episode… Those who have experienced trauma often struggle with self-criticism, isolation, and reliving painful experiences. Even when we know self-compassion matters, it can feel abstract or blocked by internal resistance. How can we transition from self-judgment and disconnection toward a sense of safety, love, and acceptance? According to clinical psychologist and mindfulness expert Dr. Ron Siegel, self-compassion can facilitate personal healing and therapeutic outcomes. The three counteractions to self-criticism and isolation are kindness, humanity, and mindfulness, which can be accelerated by psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. When engaging in these therapy sessions, Dr. Siegel emphasizes the importance of preparation, skilled facilitation, and integrating these practices into daily life to support lasting change. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Ron Siegel returns to chat with Dr. Sandy Newes about cultivating self-compassion in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Siegel discusses the synergy between mindfulness and psychedelics, how secure attachment informs healing, and how to bring compassion into the body.

Gita Vaid, MD, is the Co-founder and Medical Director of the Center for Natural Intelligence,  a multidisciplinary laboratory specializing in psychedelic psychotherapy innovation and clinical practice. As a board-certified psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, she was trained by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelics Studies (MAPS) to practice ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Gita is also the Director of Psychedelic Awareness at The Chopra Foundation and a lead instructor at The Ketamine Training Center. In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is a powerful modality for healing trauma, deepening self-awareness, and fostering emotional transformation. Yet, it requires profound therapeutic relationships, boundaries, and integration. What does it take to facilitate psychological healing with psychedelic therapy? Psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Gita Vaid takes a relational and process-oriented approach to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can reactivate emotional connection, surface suppressed trauma, and promote personal growth when guided by an attuned therapeutic relationship. Gita emphasizes the value of clinician self-development, stating that true transformation occurs when the therapist and patient engage in a co-healing process. She advises practitioners to trust the unfolding nature of psychedelic work, listen carefully to their clients' inner narratives, and prioritize building safety and intimacy throughout treatment. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes interviews Gita Vaid, MD, Co-founder and Medical Director at the Center for Natural Intelligence, about the clinical and relational depth of psychedelic-assisted therapy. Gita discusses attachment repair, the shift from trauma identity to well-being, and how music and innovation can enhance the healing process.

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Many people struggling with trauma, anxiety, or emotional blocks have turned to alternative therapies for healing, but are these methods truly effective? With growing interest in psychedelics like ketamine and MDMA, questions remain about how these substances are used, who they help, and what actually happens during therapy. What does safe, effective psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy look like in practice? Various medical and psychiatric professionals share their lived experiences and clinical insights into this emerging field. Veteran psychedelic researcher Bill Richards maintains that the psyche can heal itself when supported by empathy and presence during psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy sessions. Internal Family Systems creator Dr. Dick Schwartz believes each individual is composed of distinct parts with trauma impacting their individual functions. Emergency medicine provider Mel Herbert details therapeutic environments that promote psychedelic integration, while MDMA researcher Michael Mithoefer emphasizes the importance of preparation and post-session dialogue and reflection for long-term impact.  In this exclusive compilation episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes of Living Medicine Institute reflect on their most insightful interviews. Featuring conversations with Bill Richards, Dr. Dick Schwartz, Michael Mithoefer, and Mel Herbert, these guests delve into therapeutic safety, the role of integration after ketamine sessions, and promoting healing in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.

Jayne Gumpel, LCSW, is the Founder and Lead Facilitator of Relationship Resources, which offers psychedelic-assisted retreats. As a psychotherapist, trainer, and teacher, she has over 30 years of experience working with couples, individuals, and groups in private practice. Jayne is a certified trainer in Psychedelic Integration Psychotherapy, a member of the Woodstock Therapy Center's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) team, and has completed MDMA-assisted psychotherapy training through the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). In this episode… Couples may encounter challenges when trying to resolve persistent issues around communication, trust, or emotional pain. Traditional talk therapy sometimes falls short when couples try to break through entrenched narratives and create meaningful change. How can therapists help partners reach deeper understanding and healing in a safe, transformative way? According to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist and couples retreat facilitator Jayne Gumpel, ketamine can act as a portal to emotional clarity and reconnection. Having facilitated both individual and group ketamine sessions, Jayne emphasizes the importance of preparation, intention setting, and integration. This medicine quiets the brain's default mode of thinking, helping clients detach from rigid meaning-making and approach difficult emotions with compassion. Jayne also integrates poetry into her clinical practice to help clients reframe their stories and deepen relational insight. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes sits down with Jayne Gumpel, LCSW, Founder and Lead Facilitator of Relationship Resources, to discuss psychedelic-assisted couples therapy. Jayne shares her philosophy for cultivating joy, her innovative retreat approaches, and her perspective on consciousness. 

Jim Hopper, PhD, is a Teaching Associate in Psychology at Harvard Medical School, where he co-directs a conference on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. With over 25 years of experience as a clinical psychologist, therapist, and independent forensic consultant, he focuses on the psychological and neurobiological effects of trauma, including sexual assault and child abuse, and their treatment. Jim has provided training and consultation to therapists, law enforcement, military personnel, and higher education administrators and has served as an expert witness in legal cases. In this episode… Many clinicians entering the field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy assume that the medicine alone drives healing, overlooking the critical role of the therapeutic relationship. Without a strong relational foundation, clients can experience retraumatization, disempowerment, or even harm during these vulnerable states. How can practitioners create safe, empowering, and effective therapeutic environments during psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy? As a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Jim Hopper advises clinicians to combine empowerment, connection, and attunement during psychedelic therapy sessions. He advocates for trauma-informed care that supports client autonomy and competence while maintaining a genuine relational connection. Preparation, integration, and an awareness of relational dynamics like transference and countertransference are essential components of the psychedelic therapy process. By maintaining faith in the client's inner healing wisdom, therapists can help clients feel safe, empowered, and supported throughout their healing journeys. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes interviews Jim Hopper, PhD, Teaching Associate at Harvard Medical School, about creating safe and relational psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy sessions. Jim talks about balancing autonomy and competence, avoiding therapist overreach, and the risks of replicating trauma dynamics in therapy.

Rick Doblin, PhD, is the Founder and President of MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies), a nonprofit organization advancing research into the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. He studied under Dr. Stanislav Grof and was among the first to be certified as a Holotropic Breathwork practitioner. Rick aims to develop legal contexts for the beneficial uses of psychedelics and marijuana.  In this episode… The path to healing trauma and advancing mental health care through psychedelic therapies is often blocked by regulatory barriers, cultural stigma, and skepticism. While MDMA-assisted psychotherapy shows immense promise, therapists wonder how these treatments can be made widely accessible and trusted, especially across different cultures, age groups, and medical systems. What does it take to shift public perception and institutional acceptance? Psychedelic researcher and therapy pioneer Rick Doblin combines rigorous clinical research, international therapist training, and grassroots cultural change to reduce the stigma surrounding psychedelic therapies. He has initiated humanitarian projects in high-trauma, low-resource regions like Ukraine and Rwanda and facilitated the FDA approval process through pilot studies and collaborative research. Rick emphasizes the importance of therapist training — including firsthand MDMA experience — and encourages public storytelling to destigmatize psychedelics and build broader support. In today's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes welcomes Rick Doblin, PhD, Founder and President of MAPS, to discuss his pioneering research into MDMA and other psychedelic-assisted psychotherapies. Rick talks about group and family psychedelic therapy models, the relationship between mysticism and therapeutic outcomes during psychedelic sessions, and how to support natural emotions during vulnerable states. 

Dr. Erika Czerwinski, PsyD, is the Founder, Director, and Facilitator of Eleos, which integrates ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and nature-based mindfulness to facilitate self-discovery. With over 20 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples, and groups, Dr. Czerwinski holds certifications in psychedelic-assisted therapies from MAPS, the Integrative Psychiatric Institute, and the Living Medicine Institute. Since 2019, she has facilitated ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for physicians, young adults, and those healing from trauma. In this episode… As the psychotherapy space enters a psychedelic renaissance, navigating the complex relational dynamics that emerge in altered states remains a top concern. How can therapists maintain ethical boundaries while being authentic and responsive during such vulnerable moments? What role do clinical frameworks like attachment theory and transference play when working with powerful medicines like ketamine? According to clinical psychologist Dr. Erika Czerwinski, relational attunement, psychoanalytic listening, and ceremony-based approaches can ground and enrich ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Distinguishing dosages helps clinicians tailor interventions based on client needs and internal states. When clients begin regaining verbal awareness during ketamine sessions, gentle, well-timed reflections can surface unconscious material, validate emerging emotional experiences, and help anchor insights for integration. By attuning to transference patterns and unconscious processes, interpretations can deepen relational safety and accelerate healing. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes interviews Erika Czerwinski, PsyD, Founder, Director, and Facilitator of Eleos, about integrating relational depth into psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Czerwinski talks about working with clients experiencing personality disorders, the difference between psychedelic and psycholytic therapy sessions, and how ketamine compares to similar psychedelics in clinical usage.

In this episode… Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is often misunderstood, stigmatized, or misdiagnosed, especially in high-functioning individuals who mask symptoms through adult-like coping strategies. Many live for decades without a clear diagnosis, struggling silently with memory gaps, emotional volatility, and identity confusion. How can modern therapeutic practices like psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy identify and support people navigating this complex condition? Today's guest struggled for years with DID that remained hidden behind a facade of accomplishments until various life stressors made symptoms unavoidable. Through intensive trauma therapy and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, they identified distinct parts within themself, recognized their trauma origins, and began the integration process. The guest emphasizes that psychedelics allow access to vivid trauma memories, the role of the therapist in creating safety and attunement during complex trauma work, and how gaining agency over their identities transformed their condition from a burden into a strength. Join Dr. Signi Goldman in today's episode of Living Medicine as she recounts an interview with an anonymous client about resolving DID through psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. The guest talks about identifying and healing distinct internal identities, their early experience with DID symptoms, and how somatic touch can facilitate identity reconciliation. 

Dr. Phil Wolfson, MD, is the Founder and CEO of the Ketamine Research Foundation, which advances ketamine's use in therapeutic modalities. As a pioneering psychiatrist and psychotherapist, he is the author of The Ketamine Papers and Noe – A Father/Son Song of Love, Life, Illness and Death. Dr. Wolfson served as the Principal Investigator for a MAPS-sponsored Phase 2 clinical trial exploring MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for patients with anxiety from life-threatening illnesses.  In this episode… As psychedelic-assisted therapies become more mainstream, ketamine treatments are increasingly medicalized, often lacking the integration, connection, and context that can unlock their true healing potential. How can clinicians ensure these therapies are transformative rather than transactional? Psychedelic psychotherapist Dr. Phil Wolfson advises against separating ketamine from psychotherapy. Instead, he advocates for an integrative, human-centered approach that includes preparatory work, therapist presence, and post-session integration. When determining patient dosage, clinicians should focus on assessing the individual rather than adhering to rigid protocols. Dr. Wolfson also urges clinicians to cultivate compassion, deepen their therapeutic relationships, and consider the spiritual and emotional dimensions of healing, especially when working with trauma and grief.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes talks with Dr. Phil Wolfson, the Founder and CEO of the Ketamine Research Foundation, about the art and ethics of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Wolfson shares how his son's illness led him to pursue psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, consciousness and death in psychedelic experiences, and the contrast between IV clinics and integrative therapy models.

Dr. Jonathan Leake is a Board Certified Emergency Department Physician and the Co-owner and CEO of Dérive Health, a clinic specializing in ketamine-assisted therapy for PTSD, depression, and other treatment-resistant mental health conditions. With over a decade of experience treating dehydration and illness with IV fluids and medications, Dr. Leake also co-founded Hydrate Medical, which administers IV vitamin infusions. He is certified in psychedelic-assisted therapy from the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) and MAPS and holds a certification in ketamine therapy from the Living Medicine Institute.  In this episode… Many physicians are burned out by the limitations of traditional medicine, especially when treating mental health crises in high-pressure environments like the ER. While they may feel called to do more, the pathway to practicing psychedelic therapy can seem unclear and overwhelming. How can medical professionals transition into ketamine-assisted care? After noticing a lack of effective treatment for mental health conditions, emergency medicine physician and ketamine clinician Dr. Jonathan Leake transitioned from the ER to providing ketamine therapy. Ketamine therapy requires maintaining supportive care throughout each treatment session, so physicians must build patient rapport, assess and manage the environment's energy, and recognize psychological vulnerability. When treating patients with complex trauma, Dr. Leake advises physicians to recognize the limits of their training and partner closely with licensed therapists who can guide a deeper therapeutic process. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Jonathan Leake, the Co-owner and CEO of Dérive Health, joins Dr. Sandy Newes to discuss how physicians can provide ketamine therapy. He highlights the importance of patient care during ketamine therapy sessions, insights from various psychedelic therapy conferences, and the role of training in physician performance. 

In this episode… Trauma from sudden medical crises often leaves more than physical scars; it disrupts a person's sense of safety, identity, and control. Traditional therapy can feel too slow or disconnected when your body and mind are flooded with fear. When even the memory of being in a hospital is too much to bear, how can you move forward? One resilient woman turned to ketamine-assisted psychotherapy to process acute medical trauma. The guided sessions allowed for deep internal work — accessing and dialoguing with younger, traumatized parts of herself in a safe, altered state. Having a trusted therapist present, repeating her words and prompting her to explore further, helped anchor the experience. This inner self work, paired with a sense of physical and emotional safety, became essential for healing, especially after difficult sessions that re-triggered memories. The guest emphasizes the value of entering the sessions with an open mind and the importance of having a supportive therapeutic relationship. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman hears from an anonymous client about her experience with ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for acute medical trauma. Together, they explore how medical trauma affects the nervous system, tips for first-time ketamine therapy patients, and how to release tension and embrace safety during ketamine-assisted psychotherapy sessions.

Veronika Gold, LMFT, is the Co-founder of Polaris Insight Center, a clinic offering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, integrative psychiatry, and integration services. She is a lead trainer at Polaris Training Program. She served as a sub-investigator and co-therapist, educator, and consultant at the Lykos clinical trials for the treatment of PTSD with MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. As a licensed marriage and family therapist, Veronika specializes in treating trauma, anxiety, stress, transition, self-esteem, employment, and relationship issues. In this episode… Too often, psychedelic-assisted therapy is reduced to a clinical buzzword or a quick-fix intervention, stripping it of the depth and relational care it requires. As more people seek healing through non-ordinary states, there's growing confusion — and sometimes harm — caused by untrained providers and disjointed treatment models. What does it take to offer safe, ethical, and transformative psychedelic-assisted therapy? With deep experience in trauma work and non-ordinary states, Veronika Gold emphasizes the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship, proper training, and personal experience with psychedelics. Ketamine treatment without therapeutic intervention can cause lasting damage, so Veronika advocates for relational, trauma-informed care that honors consent, somatic awareness, and integration over time. Rather than rushing to gain the patient's insights during ketamine therapy sessions, therapists should remain cautious and curious, integrating somatic intervention techniques as needed. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes hears from Veronika Gold, LMFT, the Co-founder of Polaris Insight Center, who talks about trauma-informed psychedelic therapy. Veronika shares her perspective on the role of non-ordinary states in healing, the distinction between MDMA and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and how she uses therapeutic touch during psychedelic therapy sessions. 

In this episode… Many people struggling with trauma feel stuck — trapped by memories they can't fully recall yet deeply affect their daily lives. Traditional therapy can take years to untangle the layers of emotional pain, and even then, some wounds remain deeply buried. How can you unlock those hidden experiences to begin healing? After enduring childhood and institutional trauma, today's guest accessed years of suppression through ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. This healing process requires more than engaging in a few ketamine sessions; instead, you must navigate resurfaced trauma through self-awareness, a strong support system, and body-based healing techniques to process the body's response to trauma. When considering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, the guest recommends keeping an open mind and building relationships with trusted professionals.  In the latest episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman hosts an anonymous client to discuss the impact of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy on healing trauma. Together, they share misconceptions about ketamine therapy, the guest's experience revisiting trauma during altered states, and how she developed resilience through integration work. 

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Touch in therapy is a complex and often controversial topic, especially in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, where clients are in highly vulnerable states. While some therapists fear the ethical risks of using touch, avoiding it altogether can mean missing a critical tool for grounding and healing. How can practitioners navigate this delicate balance while ensuring client safety and trust? Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy trainers Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes emphasize the importance of clear consent, ethical considerations, and trauma awareness. While some clients — particularly women with trauma histories — may be more cautious about physical contact, others may seek out safe, grounding touch from male therapists as part of their healing process, so therapists should balance masculine and feminine energy accordingly. For clients who are hesitant about direct touch, Dr. Goldman and Dr. Newes suggest allowing them to place a hand on their own body first, with the option for the therapist to add gentle contact on top if desired. In today's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes of Living Medicine Institute discuss the ethical use of touch in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy sessions. Together, they talk about somatic touch interventions, strategies for working with veterans and first responders, and how to match touch intensity to emotional distress.

Michael Mithoefer, MD, is a clinical psychologist and the Senior Medical Director for Medical Affairs, Training, and Supervision at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). He specializes in treating PTSD with experimental psychotherapy through clinical research and outpatient clinical practice. Between 2004 and 2018, Michael and his wife Annie completed two of the six MAPS-sponsored Phase II clinical trials testing MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD.  In this episode… Therapists new to the psychedelic psychotherapy space are often uncertain about how to support clients effectively during altered states. Should they remain silent and allow the medicine to do the work, or should they actively guide the session with interventions? Misconceptions about the "non-directive approach" often leave practitioners unsure of their role, leading to either over-involvement or complete disengagement. How can therapists balance presence and intervention? As a psychiatrist and researcher specializing in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Michael Mithoefer explains that the therapist's role is not to impose structure but to follow the client's inner healing intelligence. He outlines three key principles: only intervene when necessary, provide time for natural processing, and always frame suggestions as invitations rather than directives. Additionally, he highlights the importance of relational safety, regular check-ins, and the integration of somatic interventions to help clients navigate difficult emotional and physical manifestations of trauma during their sessions. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Michael Mithoefer, the Senior Medical Director for Medical Affairs, Training, and Supervision at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), returns to talk with Dr. Signi Goldman about guiding internal-directed healing during psychedelic therapy sessions. Michael discusses the importance of checking in with clients regularly during sessions, how therapist training and personal psychedelic experiences influence psychedelic therapy facilitation, and when to intervene during MDMA sessions.

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Trauma therapy is a complex and often debated field, with professionals holding differing views on the best approaches. Some therapists prioritize exposure, helping clients directly engage with painful memories, while others focus on resourcing to build a sense of safety and well-being. When ketamine is introduced into trauma work, how does it shape the healing process, and what approach leads to the most effective outcomes? Psychedelic therapy training professionals Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes and training students Barbara Connold, Barrie Bondurant, and Amy (Maiima) Nicholson explain that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy facilitates a balance between exposure and resourcing. Clients often toggle between processing traumatic material and deepening into states of well-being without direct therapist intervention. During ketamine-assisted therapy sessions, therapists should practice tethering to ensure clients feel supported, manage disassociation as a therapeutic tool rather than a barrier, and assess a client's readiness for deeper trauma work. Dr. Goldman, Dr. Sandy, Barbara, Barrie, and Amy also underscore the importance of preparation and integration, ensuring clients develop resilience and maintain stability between sessions. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes interview Barbara Connold, PMHNP, of Ketamine Psychotherapy Associates, Barrie Bondurant, PhD, LC, and Amy (Maiima) Nicholson, about the intersection of ketamine and trauma therapy. Together, they share insights on managing client dysregulation, the relational aspects of ketamine-assisted therapy, and strategies for balancing exposure with resourcing.

Mel Herbert is the Founder and CEO of EM: RAP (Emergency Medicine: Reviews and Perspectives), which provides engaging, high-quality educational content for emergency care providers. As a renowned emergency medicine physician, he established the nonprofit EM: RAP GO to extend emergency medical training to underserved communities. Mel is also the author of The Extraordinary Power of Being Average. In this episode… As the demands of emergency medicine take a heavy toll on clinicians, many struggle with depression and anxiety, often finding little relief in traditional treatments. For medical professionals seeking solutions, could ketamine therapy provide a breakthrough in combating burnout and restoring mental well-being? After struggling with severe depression and suicidal ideation and failing to find relief with conventional medications, emergency medicine physician Mel Herbert turned to ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, which he describes as life-changing. Ketamine lifted his depression and reshaped his brain's neural pathways, allowing him to experience joy and gratitude in ways he hadn't for decades. However, Mel warns against the dangers of unregulated ketamine use, stressing the importance of controlled administration with a professional therapist, proper dosing, and integration therapy.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes interviews Mel Herbert, the Founder and CEO of EM: RAP (Emergency Medicine: Reviews and Perspectives), about his experience with ketamine therapy for professional burnout. Together, they discuss training considerations for professionals entering the ketamine-assisted psychotherapy field, how providers customize treatment to patient needs, and the ideal candidates for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.

Dr. Keith Heinzerling, MD, is the Director of the Pacific Treatment and Research in Psychedelics (TRIP) program at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, where he develops psychedelic-assisted therapies for conditions such as addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. He is also an Internal Medicine and Addiction Medicine Specialist at the Pacific Brain Health Center at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, focusing his clinical research on treating alcohol, drug, and substance use problems. Before joining the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, Dr. Heinzerling was an Associate Professor in the UCLA Department of Family Medicine and a founding member of the UCLA Comprehensive Chronic Pain Integrated Practice Unit. In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy offers a paradigm shift to treating mental health conditions beyond traditional pharmacotherapy. However, integrating these treatments into mainstream medicine presents challenges, including regulatory hurdles. How can professionals balance scientific rigor with the profound and spiritual experiences that psychedelics induce? Dr. Keith Heinzerling believes that psychedelics offer more than just symptom relief; they provide a pathway to deeper healing and consciousness expansion. These medicines facilitate access to core psychological and emotional issues, allowing patients to process trauma, reconnect with their sense of self, and cultivate a greater awareness of their place in the world. Unlike conventional psychiatric treatments that focus on symptom suppression, psychedelic medicine fosters transformation by dissolving rigid mental patterns and opening individuals to new perspectives. Dr. Heinzerling maintains that this approach requires careful guidance, integration, and a framework that respects both the scientific and spiritual dimensions of these experiences. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Keith Heinzerling, the Director of the Pacific Treatment and Research in Psychedelics (TRIP) program at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute, joins Dr. Sandy Newes to talk about psychedelic healing as an alternative to traditional medicine. Dr. Heinzerling discusses his psychedelic spiritual activation retreats, the barriers to FDA approval for integrating psychedelic medicine into clinical settings, and how to conduct research for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.

Bill Richards, PhD, is the Co-founder and Senior Advisor at Sunstone Therapies, which delivers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy in medical settings. In his role, he oversees, guides, and trains new therapists from educational, medical, and religious perspectives. Bill is also a Clinical Psychologist at the Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. With over five decades of experience researching psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Bill focuses on its legal and safe integration into palliative care for cancer patients.  In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted therapy enables patients to access profound states of consciousness, which can facilitate healing and self-discovery. How can therapists create the optimal environment for such breakthroughs while maintaining ethical and supportive practices? Bill Richards, an early pioneer in psychedelic research, emphasizes the importance of trust, attunement, and presence in therapeutic settings. Psychedelics like psilocybin and ketamine unlock the psyche's capacity for healing, but therapists must provide a grounding presence and guide patients through challenging emotional terrain. By fostering openness and curiosity and remaining neutral, therapists can support clients in exploring fear, grief, and transcendence, often leading to transformative shifts in perspective and self-understanding. In this week's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman sits down with Bill Richards, PhD, the Co-founder and Senior Advisor at Sunstone Therapies, to discuss how therapists can navigate clients' alternate states effectively. Bill explains why rationality doesn't work in psychedelic states, the concepts in his book, Scared Knowledge, and the role of somatic sensations and touch in psychedelic therapies.

Manish Agrawal, MD, is the Co-founder and CEO of Sunstone Therapies, the leader in the delivery of psychedelic-assisted therapies in the medical setting. Dr. Agrawal brings an extensive academic, clinical, and research background and depth of experience to Sunstone that spans medicine, engineering, philosophy, and ethics. Driven by a deep interest in healing, Dr. Agrawal is particularly passionate about whole-person healing and the transformative potential of psychedelic therapies. Manish previously held the position of Co-director of Clinical Research at Maryland Oncology Hematology, where he dedicated 18 years to the care of cancer patients.  Dr. Agrawal completed his Residency in Internal Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center, where he was also a Fellow in Health Care Research and Policy and Bioethics. He earned his MA in philosophy from Georgetown University and an MSc in clinical research from Duke University. He earned a Fellowship where he was appointed Chief Fellow at the National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, and Hematology and Medical Oncology. He also completed a Fellowship in Bioethics at the National Institutes of Health Clinical Center and was the first fellow accepted into both fellowships. In this episode… Psychedelic-assisted therapy is revolutionizing the treatment of mental health conditions, but its integration into medical practice raises significant methodological and operational challenges. How can researchers develop rigorous protocols while addressing the unique demands of this innovative therapy? Oncology specialist and researcher Dr. Manish Agrawal, MD, pioneers psychedelic-assisted therapy in clinical settings. Conventional clinical trials, focused on standard medical interventions, struggle to accommodate the multidimensional nature of therapy-assisted psychedelics. To navigate these challenges, Dr. Agrawal refined methodologies to integrate therapeutic preparation, ongoing support, and post-session integration into their protocols. Clinical approaches must emphasize patient safety and trust, which are critical for the profound emotional states induced by substances like psilocybin and ketamine. Additionally, trials should incorporate validated scales alongside qualitative insights to bridge the gap between scientific rigor and therapeutic nuance. On today's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes hosts Dr. Manish Agrawal, MD, the Co-founder and CEO of Sunstone Therapies, to discuss clinical trials in psychedelic therapy research. Dr. Agrawal talks about balancing the risks and benefits of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, his transition from oncology to psychedelic therapy, and the limitations of this groundbreaking research.

Dr. Ron Siegel is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, where he has taught for over 40 years. As a clinical psychologist in private practice, he has worked with low-income children and families, treated adults with chronic pain and stress disorders, and provided mindfulness-oriented psychotherapy. Dr. Siegel has written and edited several books, including Mindfulness and Psychotherapy, The Mindfulness Solution, Sitting Together, and Wisdom and Compassion in Psychotherapy.  In this episode… Psychedelics offer the potential to address the brain's evolutionary tendencies that contribute to emotional distress. While essential for survival in early human history, these propensities often lead to modern challenges like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Mindfulness and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy provide tools to counteract these harmful patterns. How can psychotherapists leverage these practices to combat ingrained mental habits and improve psychological well-being? Mindfulness-based psychotherapist Dr. Ron Siegel describes the four survival-driven tendencies as danger avoidance, negativity bias, a fixed self-concept, and social comparison. Psychedelics disrupt negative thought cycles, enabling individuals to connect with deeper aspects of their consciousness and identity. By integrating mindfulness practices, individuals can maintain the insights gained from psychedelic experiences, grounding them in a broader awareness of the present moment rather than harmful thought streams. This combination helps reframe emotional struggles as transient and fluid, reducing their perceived permanence. In the latest episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes hosts Dr. Ron Siegel to talk about integrating mindfulness practices with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Dr. Siegel explains the difference between fight or flight and somatic interventions, how the brain has evolved through human existence, and how to expand traditional notions of consciousness.

Derek Rinaldo, MA, LCMHC, and LCAS-A, is the Owner of Clear Life Counseling, where he specializes in counseling men with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. He is also a Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapist at Living Medicine Institute. As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, Derek provides various styles and training in breathwork.  In this episode… New providers entering the field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy often underestimate the complexities of working with these powerful substances. While the enthusiasm for psychedelics is growing, concerns about inadequate training, improper screening, and insufficient follow-up care remain under-addressed. What are the essential skills, ethical considerations, and safeguards clinicians must adopt to ensure safety and successful patient outcomes in this emerging field? Psychedelic psychotherapy provider and therapist Derek Rinaldo emphasizes the importance of peer support, supervision, and self-regulation for clinicians working in this space. Providers should build robust referral networks for clients requiring additional psychiatric or medical care and develop strong therapeutic relationships to navigate complex cases. While psychedelic therapy can provide immense healing benefits, it can also cause harm if executed improperly, so Derek urges clinicians to prioritize ethical integration practices, safety, and continuous learning to guide clients through their psychedelic journeys responsibly. In today's episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman interviews Derek Rinaldo, MA, LCMHC, and LCAS-A, of Clear Life Counseling, about the risks associated with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they explore the potential downfalls of integration, the categories of harm in psychedelic psychotherapy, and the difference between authentic therapeutic outcomes and recreational psychedelic use.

Dr. Rick Barnett is the Owner and Clinical Psychologist at BPS Health, LLC, a private online and in-person CBT practice. As the Co-founder of the Psychedelic Society of Vermont, he has been trained in psychedelic therapy and research, focusing on MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine. Dr. Barnett is also an alcohol and drug addiction counselor. In this episode… In recent years, there has been a growing interest in psychedelic drug uses for mental health and addiction treatments. With evolving perspectives and beliefs about its use in psychotherapeutic settings, many clinicians are at odds about the potential benefits and risks. How can you navigate therapeutic use and potential misuse of these treatment methods? With personal and professional experiences with psychedelics, Dr. Rick Barnett maintains that these therapies can facilitate profound personal growth, trauma integration, and addiction recovery in both clinical and nonclinical settings. By creating curated and safe environments with trained professionals, individuals can navigate deeply impactful experiences, often achieving shifts in awareness and healing. When utilizing psychedelics for addiction treatments, Dr. Barnett advocates for a balanced approach that blends harm reduction and abstinence-based philosophies to redefine recovery. Tune in to the latest episode of Living Medicine as Dr. Sandy Newes hosts Dr. Rick Barnett, the Owner and Clinical Psychologist at BPS Health, LLC, to discuss psychedelic's evolving role in addiction treatment and recovery. He shares his thoughts on at-home versus in-office ketamine treatments, his in-depth research and personal experience with 5-MeO-DMT, and how to leverage various psychedelics for separate treatments.

Dr. Meidad Goldman, MD, is the Medical Director of Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine Clinic and Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. He is a board-certified physician in emergency and addiction medicine and has worked in multiple hospital- and clinical-based settings. With over 17 years of experience administering ketamine for multiple conditions, Dr. Goldman is a certified provider of Psychedelic Assisted Therapies and Research through the California Institute of Integral Studies and has completed training through the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS). In this episode… Administering ketamine in therapy sessions requires a team of trained medical professionals to monitor the patient's vitals during periods of altered consciousness. What is involved in the clinical side of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, and how can clinicians maintain safety and efficacy during the process? With nearly eight years of experience managing a ketamine clinic, Dr. Meidad Goldman highlights the importance of creating a supportive and individualized treatment environment. He notes that ketamine should be part of a comprehensive therapeutic program, with careful attention to dosing and real-time collaboration between therapists and medical staff. Medical providers must prioritize client comfort, use controlled settings to shape the therapeutic experience, and customize doses based on body weight. These practices maximize the clients' ability to process and integrate their experiences effectively. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Meidad Goldman joins host Dr. Signi Goldman to share his experience managing a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy clinic. Dr. Goldman talks about the role of music in the psychedelic experience, how therapists and medical staff communicate during the sessions, and how to customize ketamine drip rates.

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. In this episode… Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a promising treatment for mental health conditions, offering profound emotional and psychological healing through altered states of consciousness. How have patients suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, and unresolved trauma experienced transformative benefits from ketamine therapy? Five of Living Medicine Institute's clients describe experiencing profound emotional shifts and self-actualization. One client recounts overcoming intense PTSD triggers and gaining emotional stability, while another explains how KAP helped her move past persistent depression after years of conventional therapy. Several clients mention having profound spiritual experiences, including vivid visions, feelings of universal connection, and symbolic encounters that provided comfort and understanding. These experiences often facilitated emotional release and helped them reconnect with a sense of purpose and self-worth. In this special episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman shares interviews with clients who have transformed their mental health through ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. These interviews demonstrate how ketamine helps patients maintain an active presence in therapy, its positive impact on depression and anxiety, and how patients have combated dissociation and emotional triggers. 

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Aspiring clinicians often find themselves at a crossroads when considering integrating psychedelic-assisted therapies into their practices. Although ketamine is legal, it remains largely unregulated, prompting concerns surrounding ethical use in psychotherapy settings. What are the essential skills, safety measures, and professional pathways necessary to enter this emerging field successfully? As early pioneers of the ketamine-assisted psychotherapy space, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes outline the common pathways for clinicians entering the space. The types of people who fit the typical profile include professionals aware of psychedelics' potential, those with personal psychedelic experiences, and professionals seeking practical application of their knowledge. When transitioning into the field, Dr. Newes and Dr. Goldman emphasize prioritizing safety measures and executing preparation, intervention, and integration techniques to avoid harmful outcomes like fear associated with trauma and broken trust. In this episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes share tips for breaking into the psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy space. Together, they address concerns about these treatments, the barriers to a career in this field, and how ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can cause harm to patients when implemented incorrectly.

Dr. Richard (Dick) C. Schwartz is the Founder of the IFS (Internal Family Systems) Institute, which offers professional training in IFS therapy, an evidence-based psychotherapy that helps people access and heal their trauma through their multifaceted personalities. Dr. Schwartz began his career as a systemic family therapist and an academic and is a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. As a featured speaker for national professional organizations, he has published five books on IFS, including No Bad Parts and Introduction to the Internal Family Systems Model. In this episode… The Internal Family Systems (IFS) model is a transformative framework for understanding and healing trauma, and many therapists look to integrate it with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. How can practitioners balance the introspective depth of IFS with the expansive, altered states induced by psychedelics to unlock profound therapeutic breakthroughs? According to lifelong family systems researcher Dr. Dick Schwartz, the IFS therapeutic model identifies the mind's multiplicity, where protective and exiled parts coexist with the innate qualities of the self. Drawing parallels with spiritual traditions, IFS bridges evidence-based therapy and practices, addressing phenomena such as unattached burdens and guides, which challenge conventional psychological frameworks. Psychedelics enhance the IFS process by temporarily silencing protective parts of the psyche, allowing greater access to the healing qualities of the self. While psychedelics can catalyze powerful emotional releases and self-awareness, Dr. Schwartz emphasizes the need for skilled facilitation to avoid overwhelming clients or triggering protector backlash. By combining IFS principles with psychedelics, therapists can create a safe, compassionate environment that supports deep healing and integration of past traumas. In the latest episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes invites Dr. Richard (Dick) Schwartz to discuss how psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy can enhance the IFS process. Dr. Schwartz talks about the spiritual qualities of the self, how to identify unattached burdens and differentiate guides from parts, and recent criticisms of IFS.

Sherry Rais is the Co-founder and CEO of Enthea, a licensed, third-party administrator of health plan benefits. Through her company, she focuses on expanding access to psychedelic-assisted therapy to alleviate human suffering. Sherry holds a Certificate in Psychedelic Therapies and Research and is the former Executive Director of the Boston Psychedelic Research Group.  In this episode… The world is riddled with suffering, and it's often linked to natural disasters, community tragedies, and poverty. How can we alleviate human suffering and help individuals work through their traumas? Psychedelics advocate Sherry Rais maintains that certain levels of suffering and discomfort are crucial to personal growth and transformation. Individuals can recognize and confront their adversities through ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, which allows people to relive their trauma in controlled environments with licensed professionals guiding them through the treatment experience. However, access to these groundbreaking therapies remains limited, so Sherry works with employers to integrate psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy treatments with healthcare plans, forming a path to alternative methods for reducing suffering. In today's episode of Living Medicine, Sherry Rais, the Co-founder and CEO of Enthea, joins Dr. Sandy Newes to discuss leveraging ketamine-assisted therapy to alleviate human suffering. Sherry talks about the various types of human suffering, how to advance the psychedelic-assisted therapy field, and the qualities of a cutting-edge psychedelic therapy training program.

Husband and wife team, Michael Mithoefer, MD, a clinical psychiatrist, and Annie Mithoefer, BSN, a registered nurse, are Clinical Investigators for MDMA and PTSD studies at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelics Studies (MAPS). They specialize in treating PTSD with experimental psychotherapy through clinical research and outpatient clinical practice. Between 2004 and 2018, Michael and Annie completed two of the six MAPS-sponsored Phase II clinical trials testing MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Together, they have over 25 years of experience treating trauma patients. In this episode… Although MDMA-assisted psychotherapy has been hailed as a groundbreaking treatment for PTSD, its path to legitimacy has been thwarted by methodological and ethical challenges. How can researchers balance the demands of rigorous scientific inquiry with the relational complexities of psychotherapy to advance this innovative approach? Drug therapy researchers Michael and Annie Mithoefer faced significant criticisms of their methods as they worked to integrate MDMA into trauma therapy. Conventional drug trial models, which rely on strict double-blind methodologies, clashed with the participatory nature of psychotherapy. To address bias and ethical concerns, the Mithoefers designed studies with independent, remote reviewers trained to evaluate outcomes objectively. They also adjusted their protocols to prioritize participant safety after initial low-doses of MDMA increased anxiety rather than offered therapeutic benefits. Despite these challenges, the Mithoefers collaborate with the FDA continuously to create rigorous protocols that balance scientific standards with real-world therapeutic applications. In this part-two episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Sandy Newes continues her discussion with Michael and Annie Mithoefer about the barriers they face in their MDMA research studies. Together, they discuss the unique challenges of drug research in psychotherapy, the ethical dilemmas they face, and how their work aims to transform mental health care.

Husband and wife team, Michael Mithoefer, MD, a clinical psychiatrist, and Annie Mithoefer, BSN, a registered nurse, are Clinical Investigators for MDMA and PTSD studies at the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelics Studies (MAPS). They specialize in treating PTSD with experimental psychotherapy through clinical research and outpatient clinical practice. Between 2004 and 2018, Michael and Annie completed two of the six MAPS-sponsored Phase II clinical trials testing MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for PTSD. Together, they have over 25 years of experience treating trauma patients.  In this episode… Psychedelics like MDMA became popular for recreational use in the 60s, leading some psychiatrists and medical professionals to explore these drugs as treatments for PTSD and depression. Yet, the road to legality and acceptance was long and arduous. How did early pioneers of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy pave the way for a groundbreaking new treatment method? Psychedelic therapy pioneers Michael and Annie Mithoefer knew they wanted to accelerate healing through altered states of consciousness, so they began treating patients using breathwork. After some trauma patients didn't experience results, the husband and wife team conducted in-depth research into MDMA. Despite scrutiny, legal challenges, and reputational risks, Annie and Michael collaborated with top psychiatrists to bring MDMA-assisted psychotherapy to the mainstream. Their FDA approval process began after conducting rigorous studies involving control and experimental groups. These studies laid the foundation for future psychedelic-assisted treatment programs, benefiting patients with treatment-resistant mental health conditions. Join Dr. Sandy Newes in this episode of Living Medicine as she interviews Michael and Annie Mithoefer about their pioneering research into MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they discuss the early days of psychedelic therapy and research, the outcomes of their clinical studies, and why they began their research.

Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… Various psychedelics like ketamine, MDMA, and psilocybin were used as treatment forms in ancient cultures. Scientific studies into the use of these drugs — namely ketamine — for mental illness began as early as the 1950s. What's involved in modern psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy practices? Trauma-based psychiatrist Dr. Sandy Newes provides supervised ketamine-assisted therapy treatments for treatment-resistant depression and other chronic mental health conditions. This involves using the ketamine drug as a supplement to traditional therapy practices by placing the patient on an IV drip in a controlled therapeutic environment to observe behavioral shifts. Alternatively, medical approaches entail collaborating with a physician and using ketamine as a single source of treatment. During sessions, professionals monitor the patient's vital signs and emotional distress levels, adjusting the IV drip based on their responses and experiences. Following the session, key insights from the altered state of consciousness are integrated into further treatment sessions. Join Dr. Sandy Newes in this episode of Living Medicine as she's interviewed by Chad Franzen of Rise25 about the cultural history and proven benefits of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy techniques. She discusses its use in trauma treatments, Living Medicine Institute's function as a psychedelic-assisted therapy training and research facility, and the typical process for this treatment form.

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. In this episode… Cutting-edge studies show that ketamine and other psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy modalities are effective in treating various mental health conditions. While this technique is promising, it lacks training programs to execute it effectively. If you're interested in this space, how can you integrate psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy practices into your approach? As an early adopter of ketamine-assisted therapy, Dr. Signi Goldman says this treatment can't be used on its own; instead, it must be integrated into an established treatment program. She emphasizes using scientific evidence in your approach, monitoring and optimizing dosage ranges to prevent addiction risks. Providers must also engage in the treatment drug in controlled settings to provide authentic treatment, learn about the drug's effects, and help the patient navigate their altered state.  In this episode of Living Medicine, Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews Dr. Signi Goldman, the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, about the safe use of psychedelics in psychotherapy practices. She talks about her work as a rite of passage guide, her teaching and certification programs for psychedelic-assisted therapy, and the role of this modality in future psychiatric treatment plans.

Dr. Signi Goldman, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Medical Director of Living Medicine Institute, which offers psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy training programs. As a certified provider for psychedelic-assisted therapy and research, she has practiced in various clinical settings, including hospital systems and alternative treatment settings. Dr. Goldman also serves as a Psychiatrist and Psychotherapist for Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry's Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Program for Mental Health. Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes, PhD, is a licensed psychiatrist and the Co-founder and Programming Director of Living Medicine Institute. With over 25 years of clinical experience as a psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist, she specializes in anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, and recovery. Dr. Newes has provided ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Concierge Medicine and Psychiatry since 2019. She is also an educator and speaker offering workshops, events, and education on psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and the intersection of nature connection, trauma, and mental health. In this episode… In recent years, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy has emerged as a groundbreaking new therapy technique that stimulates healing through altered states of mind. Yet this space is still in its infancy, with misconceptions and concerns surrounding drug use and safety. What should you know about this evolving space, and how can you break into it? As certified psychedelic-assisted therapy providers, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandy Newes maintain that this modality involves more than drugging patients one time to heal them for life. Instead, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy is an ongoing process that begins with establishing patients' medical histories, establishing treatment goals, and building a relationship with them to ensure they feel comfortable enough to withstand treatment. During the process, Dr. Goldman and Dr. Newes employ trauma and nature-based approaches to help patients navigate their altered states. After the session, the doctors observe behavioral shifts and align them with their treatment goals. In the first episode of Living Medicine, Dr. Signi Goldman and Dr. Sandra (Sandy) Newes are interviewed by Rise25's Chad Franzen about psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Together, they explain how it enhances traditional psychotherapy techniques, how they incorporate trauma, nature, ceremonies, and rituals into their approaches, and how they address psychological safety concerns.