Exploring the Potential of Psychedelic Therapy with Dr. Charles Grob

This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org<br/><br/>Dear listeners,This week, I am attending the historic MAPS psychedelic science conference in Denver—along with my guest, UCLA psychiatrist and psychedelic researcher Charles Grob. Thanks to the research of pioneers like Grob, we are winning hearts and minds in the mainstream. Nixon’s failed War on Drugs appears ending. On Thursday, June 22, at 12 pm MT, I will take to the Rick Doblin stage to announce a nationwide campaign to decriminalize psychedelics locally. I believe that these medicines have the potential to boost morale in depressed areas like my own home town of Ft. Bragg, which is why I have begun my efforts there. We appear to be succeeding, based on the positive response by city officials and local media.But the fight continues on several new fronts. First, new industries emerging where psychedelics are legal see unethical actors—unqualified “therapists” and profit-driven pharmaceutical companies. As Dr. Grob reminds us in this week’s interview, we need oversight.We are also hearing more stories of adverse effects in vulnerable groups. We lack data—both scientific and anecdotal. I’m soliciting stories of negative experiences for my forthcoming series, and invite you to share yours.Yet despite risks and adverse effects, we must continue to expand access. Criminalization prevents honest, law-abiding citizens from accessing these profound tools. With open yet responsible guidance, psychedelics’ healing promise can be fulfilled.These treatments aren’t for everyone; we need more trained professionals and standards for guides—whether from government or private certifying bodies. But above all, we need open and honest discussion. I aim to provide transparent information. Toward this end, I will soon be making my transcripts and videos accessible to all subscribers. If you are a paid subscriber, I would like your input on what kind of premium/exclusive content you would like me and my team to produce. Please email my producer your suggestions at producer@mindbodyhealthpolitics.org with your ideas. Golden light,Dr. Richard L. MillerKey Takeaways:* Dr. Charles Grob's research has focused on end-of-life care, building upon the work of researchers from previous generations, such as Stan Grof.* Psychedelic research still faces regulatory hurdles and needs further study.* Eric Kast learned in the 1960s that set and setting were crucial for optimizing outcomes and minimizing harm.* Diversity and inclusion are crucial for ethical research.* For-profit companies may prioritize profits over patients, so government oversight is needed to balance commercial interests with public health.* Trained health professionals are preferred to ensure safety.* Close screening and monitoring are needed to minimize risks, especially for vulnerable groups.* With care and responsibility, psychedelic tools may help revive well-being and human connection in times of deepest despair.Links and references:* Psychedelic Wisdom* MAPS psychedelic science conference*