Exploring the Clinical Process and Sacred Connections in Psychedelic Work

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.

This episode is brought to you by the Living Medicine Institute.

LMI is a training, resource, and membership program educating providers about the legal and safe use of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.

To learn more or participate, visit https://livingmedicineinstitute.com.