The Higher Practice Podcast for Optimal Mental Health

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....

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 treatm...

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...

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...

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 succe...

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 rep...

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...

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...

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 ali...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 state...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 - 4:2...

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 Net...

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...

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...