The Higher Practice Podcast for Optimal Mental Health
Keith Kurlander and Dr. Will Van Derveer, co-founders of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and Integrative Psychiatry Centers, host this podcast about achieving optimal mental health. Each episode explores cutting-edge psychology and practical approaches that can help people reach their highest potential. The show is aimed at listeners who want deeper insight into mental health, personal growth, and integrative psychiatric care. Questions and feedback can be sent to the institute by email.
Episodes
Psychedelic Therapy: Why We Wrote The Book + The Future of Mental Healthcare – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 154
In this episode, Will and Keith announce the release of their long-awaited book, Psychedelic Therapy, and discuss the personal and professional experiences that drove them to write it. The conversation delves into the "psychedelic revolution," critiquing the current state of mental healthcare for its focus on symptom suppression rather than addressing the root causes of suffering, such as trauma.
Ketamine and Internal Family Systems - Nick Bruss - HPP153
This episode of the Higher Practice Podcast explores the intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and psychedelic-assisted healing, particularly with ketamine. Psychotherapist Dr. Nick Bruss provides an overview of IFS, a compassionate approach that harmonizes internal parts like exiles, managers, and protectors to foster self-awareness and healing. He discusses his three-month treat
Not Too Tight, Not Too Loose – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP152
Have you ever considered how our attachments shape our experiences of fulfillment and suffering? In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between holding on and letting go, examining how these forces influence our spiritual and emotional lives. Drawing from contemplative traditions, we discuss the role of the ego in shaping desires and fears, and how even the pursuit of spiritual enlighten
Latest Advances in Women's Health - Dr. Sara (Gottfried) Szal – HPP 151
Despite significant advancements in healthcare, gaps in women's health continue to leave many underserved, as discussed by Dr. Will Van Derveer and Dr. Sara Gottfried Szal in their exploration of the evolving field of female care. Dr. Szal reflects on her medical journey, highlighting the shift from physician-centered models to personalized, patient-focused approaches and the urgent need to addres
Resolution Revolution: Why New Year's Resolutions Fail and How to Make Them Stick – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP150
This episode explores the complexities of New Year's resolutions and effective goal-setting strategies, emphasizing the pitfalls of impulsive resolutions and advocating for a structured visioning process. We discuss setting goals across key life areas—career, family, health, and personal pursuits—using tools like vision boards, Google Drive, and Trello to track progress and achieve realistic succ
Turning Insights Into Action In Psychedelic Therapy – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP149
Transformation happens when moments of clarity are translated into lasting change, but this process is rarely simple. In this episode, we highlight the challenges of psychedelic integration, focusing on the difficulty of turning powerful insights into actual behavioral shifts. Drawing from neuroscience and psychology, we explore the hard work required for real change, including the pitfalls of re
Mind Under Pressure: How to Recognize Stress and Reset Your Nervous System – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 148
What if we could literally change our lives by confronting our own stress responses? In this episode, we explore the profound impact of stress on mental health, examining its physiological and psychological aspects while offering insights for understanding and managing it. We introduce the concept of "eustress" versus "distress," explaining how different types of stress can drive growth or lead to
Mindful Bites: How What You Eat Impacts How You Feel – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 147
The findings are clear: you are what you eat! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating connection between food and mood, exploring how your diet impacts your body, brain, and overall wellbeing. From debunking the outdated food pyramid to uncovering the role of macronutrients, hydration, and fiber, we break down the science of nutrition and metabolism. We also tackle pressing health concerns l
Setting Big Goals: What's in the Way and How to Get on the Way – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP146
Ever wonder why some goals stay dreams while others become reality? In this episode, we explore the difference between fantasy and vision, sharing how to transform dreams into actionable steps that inspire clarity and motivation. We dive into common fears, like the worry of failure or judgment, and offer tips for breaking old habits and creating meaningful change. Emphasizing the importance of al
Down the Rabbit Hole: The Mystical Side of Psychedelics – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP145
In this episode, we explore the profound and often enigmatic nature of mystical experiences, particularly those induced by psychedelics. Through the lens of Western psychology and shamanic traditions, we examine encounters with mysterious entities, synchronicities, and the transformative insights these states can offer. We also address the challenges that arise, including spiritual emergencies and
Decoding the Mind: The Evolution of Mental Health Diagnosis and Treatment - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 144
What if our current understanding of mental health is merely a brief moment in the vast history of human knowledge? In this episode, we explore how the introduction of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has dramatically changed the way we talk about and understand mental health. We dive into both the benefits and drawbacks of our current diagnostic system, and we challenge t
Raising Resilient Kids: Balancing Support and Challenge – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 143
As parents, one of our primary goals is to raise children who are self-assured, adaptable, and equipped to navigate the challenges of adulthood – but striking the right balance between support and challenge is no easy feat. In this episode, we explore this delicate equilibrium of parenthood, sharing our personal experiences at different stages of the journey. We emphasize the importance of repairi
Mind Meets Machine: AI's Role in Mental Health - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 142
In today's episode, we examine the profound impact of technology on our well-being, unpacking how AI influences individual habits and cultural norms. We discuss the concept of attention sovereignty, expressing concerns about social media and smartphones, particularly among younger demographics. We also explain how AI applications might exploit our attention and dopamine systems, leading to addicti
Altered States, Different Goals: Comparing Psychedelic Journeys in Ceremony, Therapy, and Recreation – Keith Kurlander and Dr. Will Van Derveer – HPP 141
In this episode, we explore the rapidly evolving landscape of psychedelics, examining recent legal milestones like Dr. Joe Tafur's victory in Arizona for the use of Ayahuasca as a religious sacrament, as well as the União do Vegetal's (UDV) landmark Supreme Court case nearly two decades ago. These developments signal a broader trend in the U.S. toward decriminalization and legalization, with stat
The Dark Side Of Wellness Culture - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 140
This episode explores the pitfalls of wellness culture and spiritual seeking, focusing on avoiding counterproductive efforts. We share personal updates and examine the tension between the pursuit of wellness and ego limitations. The conversation highlights how rigid beliefs and the obsession with perfection can lead to burnout and self-judgment. We offer an alternative approach by emphasizing whol
The Business of Psychedelic Therapy - Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer
Psychedelic therapy has proven to be one of the biggest breakthrough treatments in the mental health industry, especially for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions. Although the demand will continue to increase over the next few years, there won't be enough providers to meet that demand. Listen in as we discuss the current status of psychedelic therapy including Ketamine, MDMA & Psilocyb
The Unique Health Journey Women Face – Dr. Sara Gottfried – HPP 138
In celebration of Women's History Month, we're re-releasing one of our most popular podcast episodes featuring women's health expert and New York Times Bestselling author, Dr. Sara Gottfried. In this episode, Dr. Gottfried talks about the unique challenges women face at different stages in life and how those challenges can often impact their mental and physical health. She'll also share how women
Values Define Your Destiny (Part 3): Creating the Life You Desire – Keith Kurlander – HPP 137
Self-determination is a concept in psychology that refers to having a significant influence over your life, such as the direction and fulfillment of your career, relationships, finances, and the impact you have on the world. Although levels of self-determination vary greatly between individuals and their unique circumstances, there are a handful of things you can do in order to increase the likeli
Values Define Your Destiny (Part 2): Knowing Who You Are – Keith Kurlander – HPP 136
We all want to live the life that we desire, which includes being able to be our most authentic selves even when it seems risky. But in order to be your true self, you have to first know who you are and that means knowing your values. In last week's episode, Keith talked about how to release values that aren't your own. In this episode, he'll discuss how you can learn who you are by identifying y
Values Define Your Destiny (Part 1): Releasing What You Aren't – Keith Kurlander – HPP 135
Many of us understand the importance of living a values-based life. However, most people don't feel fully aligned in their career and consider it a sacrifice. This incongruence can cause stress and lead to significant symptoms of anxiety and depression. In part one of this 3-part series, Keith discusses how easy it can be to find yourself misaligned in a career and what you can do about it. He'll
When Doctors Get Traumatized Practicing Medicine (Part 2) – Dr. Rola Hallam – HPP 134
Trauma doesn't discriminate. Anyone can be impacted by trauma at any time, including us providers. So what happens when the healer needs healing? That's what we'll discuss in today's episode. Join us for part two of this series as we continue our conversation with Dr. Rola Hallam. Not only will we discuss the revolutionary treatment options that now exist for helping others overcome trauma, but we
When Doctors Get Traumatized Practicing Medicine (Part 1) - Dr. Rola Hallam - HPP 133
In this episode, Dr. Rola Hallam, an award-winning doctor known for her deep passion for global health and humanitarian work during the war in Syria, shares her experience of overcoming trauma as a provider. She'll talk about her journey to becoming a doctor, her mission-driven work in Syria and other war zones, and her work as a trauma-informed life coach. Shownotes: Born to become a Doctor - 4:
The Psychology of Money (Part 4) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 132
During the last few episodes, we talked about the role that money plays in our lives, past experiences that have shaped our views around money, and the importance of preparing financially for the future. In today's episode, we wrap up this series by sharing some practical tips that can help you get on the way. Shownotes: Invest In Future Self - 3:18 Like A Plant In A Pot - 3:59 Having A Safety Ne
The Psychology of Money (Part 3) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 131
It's a new year which means many people are reevaluating their goals and establishing new ones. With that comes an opportunity to think about your financial future. What does financial freedom mean? How can you build wealth to support your lifestyle even when you're not actively bringing in income? How can you invest in yourself by preparing financially for your future? While money can be a touchy
The Psychology of Money (Part 2) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 130
In the final part of this two-part series, we'll continue our discussion on the role that money plays in our lives and how it can be used as a tool to create more opportunities and experiences, and achieve desires. We'll also talk about the importance of having a mission or meaning behind the pursuit of money. Show notes: Why the Lottery Works So Well - 2:12 The Value of Money - 5:44 Overcoming
The Psychology of Money (Part 1) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 129
It goes without saying that money plays a significant role in our lives. The relationship we have with money tends to be influenced by experiences that we've had with money early on in life, including bearing witness to how our parents and other adults in our lives navigated their relationship with money. In part one of this two-part series, Will and Keith have a detailed discussion about their ex
Gratitude Is More Than a Practice – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 128
In this episode, we explore the connection between presence and gratitude, and how to develop gratitude during challenging experiences. We will also examine how ingratitude affects our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. Plus, we'll discuss different practices that can help with maintaining gratitude throughout the day. Show notes: Gratitude and Presence - 02:29 The Stakes Went Up Wh
Trauma and Hope in Iran - Dr. Noshene Ranjbar (PART 1) - HPP 126
The tragic death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died in Iran's capital of Tehran while in police custody on September 16, 2022, has sparked outrage and protests in Iran and all over the world. In this 2-part series, we sit down with Dr. Noshene Ranjbar, trauma expert and Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona, to discuss both the trauma and hope surroundin
Advanced Topics in Psychedelic Therapy Integration Sessions (PART 2) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 125
In part two of this series, we'll continue our conversation on psychedelic therapy integration as we discuss the ins and outs of this process. Listen in as we talk about issues such as fragmentation, that can sometimes occur after a dosing session. We'll also discuss the rare instances in which integration may not be possible. Show notes: Integration: Letting it Happen Naturally - 01:29 The Beaut
Advanced Topics in Psychedelic Therapy Integration Sessions (PART 1) – Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 124
Integration is a key component of the psychedelic therapy healing process. Integration sessions can often help a client unpack material that arose during the psychedelic session that wasn't completely digested and sequenced in the client's body. In this episode, we'll discuss advanced integration topics of psychedelic therapy, as well some stories of what can happen without proper integration. Sho
SPECT Brain Scans and Mental Health (Part 2) – Daniel Emina – HPP 121
In part 2 of this series, we continue the conversation with Dr. Daniel Emina about the use of SPECT brain scans in studying blood flow patterns that correlate with symptom clusters. Listen in as we dive a little deeper and talk about the process used to analyze data from SPECT scans to help create treatment plans for patients experiencing mental illness symptoms. Show notes: SPECT Patterns Behind
Colorado Votes on Psilocybin - Josh Kappel - HPP 122
In today's episode, we have the timely opportunity to discuss Colorado Proposition 122 with one of its co-authors, attorney Josh Kappel. The Natural Medicine Health Act of Colorado would create a pathway to legalize psilocybin therapy in Colorado, and contains some very interesting nuances that make this initiative revolutionary and distinct from other state initiatives. We'll talk about what this
SPECT Brain Scans and Mental Health (Part 1) - Daniel Emina - HPP 121
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Emina, Psychiatrist and Associate Medical Director at Amen Clinics, to discuss SPECT brain scans and the role that this revolutionary technology has in the field of integrative psychiatry. During this two-part series we'll talk about the advantages of SPECT brain scans and even some of the controversy surrounding this type of imaging. Show notes: A Uni
Oregon Psilocybin Services and Access to Care - Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer - HPP120
In today's episode, we discuss the new & exciting developments that are happening in Oregon, surrounding the Ballot Measure 109, which refers to the regulatory licensing and use of psilocybin products and services. Listen in as we go over details of this new Oregon law as we understand it, the risks and advantages of psilocybin as a therapeutic model, and a somewhat similar initiative that will be
The Myth of Normal with Gabor Maté - HPP 119
In today's episode, we're joined by renowned speaker and bestselling author, Dr. Gabor Maté, to discuss his latest book entitled "The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness and Healing in a Toxic Culture". Listen in as we discuss some of the highlights of the book, including the causes of illness, the effect that toxic culture has on our minds and bodies, and a pathway to health and healing. Show notes:
Financial Health Impacts Your Mental Health - Bari Tessler - HPP 118
Money and mental health. It's a topic that isn't discussed as often as it should be, especially in the practice of psychotherapy. In today's episode, we sit down with financial therapist and author of, "The Art of Money", Bari Tessler to discuss the psychology of money and where many money habits come from. Bari will also share few techniques that you can use to help your clients or patients, and
Meaning Making and Intergenerational Trauma - Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer - HPP 117
What exactly is trauma? How many people actually carry trauma in their bodies? How do we know the actual source of our trauma's when it's not a specific event that happened? What if the source of one's trauma is intergenerational—passed down from previous generations? In today's episode, we take a deeper look at these difficult questions that need answers in order to heal on the personal and colle
Nature-Deficit Disorder Balance - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 116
As a society we have become more and more disconnected with nature. This phenomenon and the psychological and physical stress it has placed on many of us is referred to as Nature-Deficit Disorder. It's a growing problem that was only heightened by the pandemic. Nature can regulate the nervous system in ways that are difficult to attain otherwise. Nature is truly food for the soul. In today's episo
Pioneer of Advanced Neurofeedback - Dr. Siegfried Othmer - HPP115
In today's episode, we are joined by one of the pioneers of advanced neurofeedback, Dr. Siegfried Othmer. Join us as we get into an exciting conversation about how the brain works and how it behaves by measuring brain activity using EEG and how much of an impact it can bring towards integrative psychiatry. Show notes: Getting to know Dr. Othmer - 02:12 The Brain Responds to its Own Reflection - 0
Ambition, Goal Setting, and Balance - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 114
Culturally, ambition is often talked about in relation to career or professional goals. However, ambition is a conversation that can be a very relevant part of various areas of your life. And while it's amazing to be ambitious, it's equally important to focus on enjoying the journey all along the way. In today's episode, we'll take a deep dive into a conversation around ambition, goal setting and
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind - Dan Go - HPP 113
In today's episode, we are joined by fitness expert Dan Go as he discusses his healing journey and how it led to him becoming the #1 body transformation coach for entrepreneurs. Studies have shown that regular exercise can reduce anxiety, depression, and stress while improving cognitive function, self-esteem and overall mental wellness. Listen in as we dive deep into the topic of fitness, mental h
Facing Death, Living Life - Dr. Joan Borysenko - HPP 112
In today's episode, we're joined by New York Times bestselling author and world-renowned mind/body connection expert Dr. Joan Borysenko. During our time together, we discuss her thoughts about death, the grieving process, and the importance of living a fulfilling life. Dr. Borysenko also shares how she and her husband came face to face with death and the renewed sense of gratitude they found on th
![[Podcast] Spirituality and the Shadow - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 111](https://static.libsyn.com/p/assets/5/9/3/0/593079bcfc4c1a3a27a2322813b393ee/Podcast.jpg)
[Podcast] Spirituality and the Shadow - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 111
The pursuit of spiritual development can take many twists and turns, sometimes showing us where we are growing and sometimes showing us where our shadow continues to operate unabated. In spiritual communities, unexamined unconscious material can get amplified causing significant suffering. In today's episode, Will and Keith share what they learned from experiences with gurus and in being members o
"The Quaking of America" - Resmaa Menakem - HPP 110
In today's episode, we are joined by New York Times bestselling author Resmaa Menakem. Resmaa is returning to the podcast to discuss his new book "The Quaking of America", where he takes a deeper dive into structural racism and its roots in American politics and the political landscape today. We discuss the January 6th insurrection and the path forward during heightened times in such a divided nat
How to Live With Inspiration - Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer - HPP 109
We're so excited to announce the reboot of the Higher Practice Podcast! Over the past 9 months, we devoted a considerable amount of time to curriculum development and enhancing our programs in the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. During that time one of the constant conversations we were in is how to stay inspired during the busyness of life. Upon reflection, it takes discipline, purpose, and hea
The Spiritual Process of Creating Psychedelic Music with Producer Random Rab - HPP 108
Creating art is for music producer Random Rab a spiritual experience, and this is obvious in the art he creates. Rab's prodigious output of compositions over decades has gained him invitations to play at some of the world's biggest festivals and venues, and his warmth and connection to his audience is legendary. In psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, the right music is a key element of the healing
Women's Empowerment, Sexuality and Culture - Kimberly Ann Johnson - HPP 107
Women often face tough challenges and power dynamics navigating our culture. Gender inequalities manifest outwardly but also inwardly for many women, including obstacles around self-expression, personal empowerment, enjoying pleasure and sexuality. Today, we talk with somatic experiencing practitioner, sexological bodyworker, and author, Kimberly Ann Johnson. Join us as we explore the specific cha
How to Get to Zero In Your Relationship - Jayson Gaddis - HPP 106
Today we talk all about relationships with our partners and sharing experiences, and how we cope and deal with difficulties that are common in every relationship. In today's episode, we're excited to have Jayson Gaddis, a relationship expert, coach, and author. Show notes: Getting to Zero - 03:28 A Personal Journey of Getting to Zero - 04:54 Conflict Repair in Relationships - 09:46 Working Throug
The Filmmakers behind the Gabor Mate Documentary - Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo HPP 105
Documentary film is a potent tool for shifting perceptions about the challenges we face as a society. "The Wisdom of Trauma," the latest documentary produced by Zaya and Maurizio Benazzo, reached over 4,000,000 viewers in over 200 countries. It depicts the pioneering work of Gabor Mate connecting the role of trauma to the skyrocketing rates of addiction and chronic illness that plagues Western soc
Ken Wilber Discusses Ego Development, Culture and Our Future - HPP 104
In today's episode, we are incredibly honored to have a famous philosopher and writer, Ken Wilber, on the show. Ken's work has been monumental in the field of transpersonal psychology and has developed the integral theory. Today, he shares his insights about the ego structures, states of consciousness, human development, and a whole lot more. Show notes: Where We Are In The Human Journey - 05:56
Psychedelic Insights From One of the Earliest Researchers - Dr. Charles Grob - HPP 103
For decades, Dr. Charles Grob has been researching applications of MDMA, psilocybin, and ayahuasca for a variety of human conditions including end of life anxiety, PTSD, depression, addiction, and more. His contributions have significantly shaped what we know about psychedelics today and how much of an impact it has on our patients. In today's episode, we hear about the early challenges in psyched
Conversation about Psychedelics, Ego Theory, and Research Developments With a Leading Researcher - Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris - HPP 102
Psychedelic research is gaining momentum, and Robin Carhart-Harris with his team at Imperial College, London is one of the most prolific groups pushing the science forward. In May 2021, the New England Journal of Medicine published their head to head depression study of an SSRI vs. psilocybin. In today's episode, we are joined by a pioneering neuroscientist, Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris. We dive into
Polyvagal Theory, Trauma and Neuroscience of the Mind - Dr. Stephen Porges HPP 101
The stress response impacts every aspect of health, not only mental health. The vagus nerve is a major connector between mind and body and a big part of the parasympathetic nervous system. In today's episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Stephen Porges, the author and mind behind Polyvagal Theory. Dr. Porges has committed decades of research to uncover the various aspects of how the vagus nerve i
Visionary Art, Mystical Experiences, Transcendence & Psychedelics - Alex & Allyson Grey - HPP 100
What is art and where does it come from? How can art provide a window into the divine nature of reality? In this episode, we take a deep dive into answering these questions along with an exploration into broader mystical experiences, transcendence and the role of psychedelics. We are honored to host Alex and Allyson Grey, two of the most respected visionary artists in the world. They share some gr
NFL Player Joe Hawley Talks Competition, Performance, Career and Purpose - HPP 99
To make it to the top of professional sports takes a lot of hard work, mental toughness, and physical discipline, and to always be one step ahead of the game. What happens to athletes when they pivot and walk away from a lifetime of commitment and immersion in their sport? What experiences, challenges and psychological difficulties do they go through, and how do they cope? In this episode, we're e
Ayahuasca, MDMA, and Epigenetic Research - Dr. Joe Tafur - HPP 98
Psychedelics have been used to heal people for thousands of years in traditional indigenous ceremonial contexts. Psychiatric research is showing very promising results for psychedelic therapy. But can psychiatry address the spiritual dimensions of healing with psychedelics? In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Joe Tafur, author, speaker and an integrative medicine doctor at the Ocotillo Center
#Same Here Founder's Personal Story Behind The Global Mental Health Movement - Eric Kussin - HPP 97
Mental illness stigmatization remains one of the biggest issues in the battle against the global mental health crisis. It's very taboo to openly and publicly discuss our mental health, and the struggles that we all face from time to time. #Same Here founder Eric Kussin is on a mission to change that by bringing together personalities from the MLB, NHL, NFL, NBA/WNBA, MLS, Pro Boxing, Pro Volleybal
Olympic Gold Medalist and Stanley Cup Champion Theo Fleury Talks Trauma, Addiction, and Resiliency - HPP 96
Trauma causes pain that many people seek to alleviate by turning to substances. Many high achieving people have experienced trauma and addiction while somehow maintaining an extremely high level of performance in their chosen field. In today's episode, we are fortunate to have former Olympic gold medalist, Stanley cup champion, speaker and author, Theo Fleury. Join us as we dive into his gripping
Chemistry of Connection, Culture and Psychedelics - Dr. Julie Holland - HPP 95
Interpersonal connection is essential for optimal mental and physical health, and even more challenged inside the social isolation brought on by this global pandemic. We don't often think of ourselves as walking chemistry sets. But, when we view the body under this lens, we can discover powerful insights into our connections with ourselves and others, and how to optimize them. In today's episode,
Actor Kiko Ellsworth Shares About Transformation, Voice, Racism and Love - HPP 94
Actor Kiko Ellsworth began his career thinking that acting was the last profession he would ever pursue. It wasn't until he got on stage that he realized how terrified he was to express his voice in the world. At that moment, he knew he needed to use acting as a vehicle for self-expression. But that was just the beginning. After years as a successful actor on TV and film, he decided to give it all
Approaches to Integrative Sleep Medicine - Dr. Nishi Bhopal - HPP 93
Sleep health is one of the most overlooked and essential factors for physical and mental health, as well as longevity. Yet, so many people worldwide suffer from sleep disorders, and this issue seems to only be increasing in modern times. Although sleep aids may help people fall asleep, they don't necessarily support sleep efficiency which is a better indicator of restfulness and rejuvenation. In t
Healthy Men's Leadership and Empowerment - Tripp Lanier - HPP 92
In today's episode, we are joined by Tripp Lanier, a professional coach, author, and host of The New Man Podcast. As a coach, Tripp has been guiding men toward connecting deeply with themselves, living lives of meaning, and achieving success from the inside out. We dive into topics around what hinders men from moving forward with their lives in terms of relationships, career, and business. Show no
Keith + Will's Personal Experiences with Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy – HPP 91
Getting up-to-date on the research and practical application of psychedelic-assisted therapy is only half the story. Ketamine is a unique medicine in its bioactive properties for treating depression, but it can also produce a powerful psychedelic experience that can be leveraged with psychedelic-assisted therapy. In today's episode, Keith and Will discuss their personal experiences with ketamine-a
What to Know About Psychedelic Psychotherapy - HPP 90
We are entering a psychedelic renaissance with psychedelic therapy trials showing promising results and the shift in cultural opinions following the release of Michael Pollan's book, How to Change Your Mind in 2018. There are still many questions that mental health care providers have about psychedelics: Can psychedelics cause psychosis? If an individual has an underlying mental illness will psych
VR Therapy for PTSD and Anxiety - Dr. Barbara Rothbaum – HPP 89
Countless technological breakthroughs with mental healthcare applications have been made in the last couple of decades. Thanks to the tireless efforts made by Barbara Rothbaum, PhD, ABP and other researchers, virtual reality (VR) is now a viable option for the treatment of PTSD and anxiety conditions. In today's episode, Dr. Rothbaum discusses the revolutionary treatment of virtual reality for PTS
What is Spirituality? - Keith Kurlander and Dr. Will Van Derveer - HPP 88
What is the relationship between mental health and spiritual health? How do we define spirituality? Are there differences between a mental illness and spiritual illness? That is the topic of today's episode, where we explore the shared elements of spiritual well-being and mental health, how they support one another, and where these areas diverge. Will and Keith dive deep into a conversation around
Conceptualizing ADHD From One of the Earliest Pioneers - Dr. John Ratey - HPP 87
In today's episode, we are delighted to have a conversation with one of psychiatry's visionary pioneers and one of the first proponents of the ADHD syndrome. John Ratey, MD has expanded the conceptualization of ADHD and has deeply explored the role of exercise in mental health. Dr. Ratey has written several books about mental health, and he joins us to talk about his latest book, ADHD 2.0, which b
Why Nutrition is the Foundation of Mental Health - Dr. Bonnie Kaplan and Dr. Julia Rucklidge - HPP 86
Thanks to the work of two very committed researchers, there is a growing body of research linking micronutrients to mental health. This research is not well known but should be. In today's episode, we are delighted to discuss with Dr. Bonnie Kaplan and Dr. Julia Rucklidge what they've learned through many years of clinical research about the role of nutrition and supplements in mental health. They
A Conversation with the Founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - Dr. Steven C. Hayes - HPP 85
Dr. Steven C. Hayes founded Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) over 20 years ago, with the view in mind to increase psychological flexibility through mindfulness and the acceptance of life's inevitable challenging experiences. Using the problem-solving mind to try to address life's emotional challenges has its limitations. This was a very interesting conversation for us with a true pioneer in
Integrating Buddhist Thought and Mindfulness into Psychotherapy - Bruce Tift - HPP 84
The integration of mindfulness with psychotherapy is an important aspect of supporting people to achieve wellbeing. How we relate to the disturbances we frequently feel throughout our lives can be a significant determinant of our quality of life, and of the possibilities we perceive. As we work toward a Buddhist psychotherapy modality, we will look at the practical application of bringing together
Intergenerational Trauma in the BIPOC Community - Dr. Mariel Buquè - HPP 83
The trauma of racism is a serious challenge for us to address as a society. The challenges faced by the BIPOC community are not only personal but also intergenerational. Traumatized individuals and communities of color face specific challenges in the healing path. Psychotherapists who work with clients facing these challenges need to know how to become sensitive to these specific challenges, in or
A Conversation with JJ Virgin about Health, Wellness and Staying Inspired – HPP 82
Overcoming the everyday challenges of life can be really tough for most of us. But if you look at it through a different lens, these obstacles are really just opportunities for us to grow into someone more resilient, be it in our relationships, careers, our well being, and in business. At the end of the day, it really is just all about our mindset. In today's episode, we explore topics around food
If You Could Get a Message to Every Person What Would You Say – HPP 81
2020 has been such a massive and eventful year for all of us in the world, especially with the threat of COVID still lingering. On the flip side, it brought an opportunity for all of us to connect through different means and paved a new way to essentially enrich relationships, build connections and bring us closer together. As we enter the New Year, we thought a compilation of insight and wisdom f
How To Be More Effective As A Parent - Dr. Stephanie Dueger - HPP 80
Often we think that parenting is common sense. However, as the world becomes more complex, our parenting knowledge needs to grow with it. At times, the responsibility that goes into raising children can feel overwhelming and can lead to physical, emotional and mental distress when we aren't properly resourced. Although parenting has its challenges, there is so much knowledge available to make the
Insights from One of America's First Yoga Gurus - Yogi Amrit Desai - HPP 79
Throughout human history, we have always had a desire to achieve wellness and fulfillment in all aspects of daily life. The ancients may have already uncovered the secret by developing practices and rituals that involve conditioning the body and the mind, and incorporating the spiritual component. With the impact and extent of damage that trauma, PTSD, anxiety and other similar disorders brings in
Laziness, Procrastination and Discipline - Keith Kurlander & Will Van Derveer – HPP 78
Do you sometimes feel like not doing anything at all on some occasions and just want to sit around doing nothing all day? Then, at a later time, you realize the many hours wasted during that time, so many meaningful tasks could have been accomplished. Why does it seem so hard to teach ourselves discipline and develop the right attitude towards doing more and being more productive? In today's inspi
Culture, Society and Trauma - Dr. Gabor Maté - HPP 77
Trauma has broken through the very fabric of every society, and this is quite apparent among ancient cultures and societies. We always see a frequent repeat of injustices, wars and unrest, as history has taught us. In today's times, there really is no difference, apart from scientific and technological advancements. Human beings, at the very core, yearn for truth, freedom, peace and justice. Howev
Keith's Personal Story of Overcoming Mental Illness - Keith Kurlander - HPP 76
Suffering from PTSD and other related mental illnesses brings so much negative and dark thoughts in all of us that can often lead to severe depression and suicidal tendencies. It's no surprise that more and more cases of suicide are reported in the news and in all media outlets. This is a huge problem that we see today with an alarming increase throughout the years. In today's episode, Keith Kurla
What's New in Trauma Therapy – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk – HPP 75
Trauma has caused much grief and suffering for a lot of people, and it's crucial for us, as care providers, to really understand why and how trauma started for each of our patients. There is still a lot to discover and learn when it comes to the conversation around trauma, and thanks to constantly evolving technology, we develop new ways of dealing with these challenges. With all these technologic
What a Highly Successful Music Exec Learned About Mindfulness, Love, and Purpose - Jason Garner
Not knowing our unique purpose and not realizing what we want to achieve in life may not be very comforting and may often lead us more into developing fear, anxiety and stress over time. While all of these thoughts bombard our minds constantly pushing us closer to the edge, perhaps all it takes is looking at it from a different angle. With all the struggles we face, we might simply need to change
