Modern psychiatry began with noble intentions: to heal, guide, and support. But has it lost its way?

In this episode of Curiously, I explore this question and much more with Dr. Bruce Levine, a clinical psychologist and outspoken critic of his profession.

Drawing from his latest book, A Profession Without Reason, Levine examines how psychiatry often medicalizes natural traits like curiosity, defiance and rebellion, sometimes to harmful ends. We discuss the history of the field, its missteps, and the dangers of labeling freethinkers as disordered.

You can learn more about Dr. Levine’s work at www.brucelevine.net.

In the world of tech titans, few know the pressures of the spotlight like Elon Musk. Recently, Musk opened up about his personal struggle with depression and his choice to use an unconventional treatment—ketamine. Once known as an anesthetic or party drug, ketamine is now emerging as a powerful mental health tool.

This episode explores the science, success stories, and big questions around ketamine therapy. Joining me again on the podcast is Dr. Sherry Sadighim, a clinical psychologist, who runs a private practice in Brooklyn, specializing in adult psychotherapy and psychological assessment. Together, we discuss ketamine’s history, neurobiology, and its potential as a future treatment for depression.

To learn more about Dr. Sherry Sadighim, and for more insights and resources, visit her website. You can listen to the previous episode with her on psychedelics and therapy here.

In this episode, I talk with Sherry Sadighim, Psy.D., a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in adult psychotherapy and psychological testing, to discuss the emerging field of psychedelics-assisted therapy (PAT).

While Dr. Sadighim is currently unable to legally practice PAT, she supports clients who choose to use psychedelics independently by providing information on the potential risks and benefits and by assisting them in understanding and processing their experiences as needed.

In our discussion, Dr. Sadighim delves into the importance of understanding a patient’s mental health history, setting intentions for the psychedelic experience, and helping patients apply their insights post-session to achieve lasting benefits. To learn more about my guest, and for more insights and resources, visit Dr. Sherry Sadighim’s website.