Have you ever wondered how life could change with ketamine therapy?
Have you read about its promise in enhancing cognitive flexibility and reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression and trauma, but not felt clear on what that would mean for your life?
While everyone is different, I can tell you a little about how ketamine therapy has changed my life...
I'll begin with a quote that stopped me in my tracks, when I first read it.
In the Introduction to Steven Cope's beautiful book of stories about finding life purpose, "The Great Work of Your Life: A Guide for the Journey to Your True Calling", he shares a quote from the Gnostic Gospel of Thomas,
"If you bring forth what is within you, it will save you; if you do not bring forth what is within you, it will destroy you."
This quote felt true to me when I first read it, yet was frustrating because, for the longest time, I did not have full clarity or deep access to what was within me. I knew that my purpose was to use my own life experience and healing to support others in some way, but it felt like there was more of me longing to come through, but I could not put my finger on it....
I have loved writing since I can remember. There would be magical moments, when the stars aligned, I felt connected with my truth, and it came out onto the page. I loved the feeling of flow and authenticity, and yearned to write more; yet, though I read Cope's book (and kept the quote on my phone's screen saver!), I still thought of writing as a fun distraction, not deserving of significant time or commitment.
I didn’t give myself permission to write as part of my profession, or share what I wrote. I had thoughts like, “I am not a writer, I can’t devote more time to that, writing is a luxury.”
But now, things are changing. Looking back, I can see how psychedelic therapy has been the catalyst that allowed me to lean into the vulnerability of just being myself. With writing, it began as little permissions to indulge myself, by taking time for, and sharing my innermost thoughts. I started to trust the “felt sense” in my body- what I longed for and what brought me pleasure.
The old me would’ve had a plan, a laid-out path, a WHY to write and WHAT to write, and mostly, WHAT other people would think. All of this thinking and over-analyzing would’ve stopped me before I even put the pencil to page.
Psychedelics helped me see that, sometimes, it is so foundational to who we think we are, this worrying about what the world thinks about us, that it is shocking when we realize that there is an alive, beating heart of uniqueness inside of us, that longs & deserves to be shared.
I’ve been told that it is Mel Robbins who said, “What other people think of me is none of my business.” And though I forget it, again & again, I love this quote!
My only business, YOUR ONLY BUSINESS, is to show up for ourselves, be authentic and as open-hearted and generous as we can be. Yet, knowing this intellectually and feeling it are completely different things.
Psychedelic therapy has helped me connect to and love my alive, beating heart of uniqueness. It has helped me trust my inner wisdom and to know, in my bones, that I am the only me on this earth, and only I can do what I was meant to do. Psychedelic therapy made real for me the wisdom and philosophies that I had only intellectually understood previously.
Psychedelic therapy is not for everyone, that is true. There are many wonderful teachers, mentors, and modalities that have supported me along the way, and might help you, too, including: yoga, meditation, journaling, exercise, Internal Family Systems therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy & more.
...But if you are someone who longs to live a meaningful, authentic life, where you fully show up for yourself and the world, and you feel like you need more support, ketamine therapy could be right for you.
My hope is that, regardless of the path you take, that my story might inspire you to ask yourself questions like:
What does my heart desire?
- What would I do if I didn’t have to worry about making money?
- What would I do if I didn’t have to worry about what other people think?
- When are the times when I light up the most?
…and then set an intention to do more of that for yourself ❤️
Wishing you self-expression,
Mary ❤️
Hi, I'm MaryI believe that your symptoms make all the sense in the world. There is nothing wrong with you ❤️
I also believe that, provided the right conditions, you can reconnect with a place of awe, beauty, curiosity, and aliveness that you so deserve. ✨
I believe these things as a result of what I’ve learned on my own healing journey and as a trauma therapist with the honor of supporting others on this path. 🤝
I approach each client with the unshakable belief that symptoms like depression, anxiety, and trauma are natural responses to unhealed emotional pain.
Ketamine, used therapeutically, can facilitate access to these tender, usually inaccessible places WHILE allowing for a client's innate wisdom and healing intelligence to come through. When this happens, transformation occurs.
And though not everyone is a candidate for psychedelic therapy, for those who are, I see profound healing over and over again.
I believe this work is my purpose, and I am honored to contribute some of what I have learned along the way in this blog. Thank you for being here. 🙏
For more information about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, download my free resource here.
Music, with its profound ability to stir wonder, awe, and a sense of expansiveness, transforms the ketamine experience into something far greater than the sum of its parts. This isn't merely background ambiance; it's an integral component of a transformative healing odyssey.
The Magic of Music in Healing
In the unique setting of ketamine therapy, music acts as a powerful force that:
- Amplifies emotional resonance, inviting a deep dive into the self
- Shapes the journey, steering experiences toward awe-inspiring realms
- Comforts and soothes, making the vastness of the experience more navigable
- Opens doors to profound insights, with the expansiveness of sound guiding the way
A Playlist of Wonder and Expansion
Crafting the perfect playlist becomes a crucial part of preparing for a ketamine session, selecting tunes that promise to elevate the spirit and expand the mind. Here’s a distilled selection from my own playlist, each track a key to unlocking realms of awe and introspection:
- "Weightless" by Marconi Union - quiets the mind and expands the heart
- "Bridge" by Sterling Grove - expansive & uplifting
- "La Voz De La Nostalgia" by Joaquin Cornejo, Wabi Sabi - a celebratory journey of hope
- "Listen to the Grass Grow" by Seckou Keita, Catrin Finch - gentle yet inspiring
The fusion of ketamine and music crafts an unparalleled experience of healing, weaving together threads of wonder, awe, and expansiveness. This unique combination does not just aim to heal but to transform, offering a journey through the self that is as boundless as the music that accompanies it. As you embark on your own therapeutic adventure, let the power of music carry you toward the infinite into a state of profound healing and discovery.
Interested in learning more about Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy
Hi, I'm MaryI help clients heal their wounded parts, so that they can claim the superpowers of post-traumatic growth, and live integrated, authentic lives. Psychedelics support clients in acknowledging and healing those hurt places so they no longer have to defend against their (often unconscious) feelings. In the process, layers of protection fall away and the beauty of their truest selves is revealed. That is why I call my blog SOUL DIG. When the protective walls come down, our souls are revealed.
For more information about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, download my free resource:
So, if you were one of the (un)lucky ones, you probably recently received three blog posts, in one day, from me!
I AM SO SORRY!…and embarrassed.
It was not intentional!
It was a big mistake, that I, an aspiring blogger and writer, was mortified to have made!
The old me could have gone down a rabbit hole of mean self-talk and critisism.
Have you been there?
If you are like most people I meet, your answer will be a resounding YES!
People say things to themselves like:
“I suck!”
“ I completely screwed up”
“How could I have let this happen?"
Or,
“Stop complaining, you have it better than others”
“Its not that bad”
But imagine we could speak more kindly to ourselves.
Talk to ourselves like we would a friend?
Can you imagine how much different life could be?
Does it sound impossible?
Well, it is not. And, it is the reason that I could get up, dust myself off, and come back to the blogging drawing board.
Let me introduce “The Self compassion Break”, a tool developed by Kristin Neff, PhD.
It’s an evidence-based intervention that we can use, both on the spot, when we find ourselves suffering, and, as a daily practice; to build the muscle of self compassion. It is quick, under 5 minutes, and easy to remember.
The three elements of self-compassion, as defined by Dr. Neff, are:
- Self-kindness vs self-judgment
- Common humanity vs. isolation
- Mindfulness vs over-identification
It might feel unusual or even unnatural at first, but I am proof: we can “fake it until we make it” with self-compassion practice, and eventually, find that we are gentler & kinder to ourselves without as much effort.
…So if you are a human, and you speak to yourself in less than loving ways, try this out.
Better yet, do it every day for a week! I’d love to hear how it goes!
In one week of daily practice, you might be surprised at how much nicer you are to yourself.
You can read the written description of the practice here: Self-Compassion Break
Or do a short guided version here: Guided Self-Compassion Break Audio
Wishing you self-compassion,
Mary ❤️
| Hi, I'm Mary I help clients heal their wounded parts, so that they can claim the superpowers of post-traumatic growth, and live integrated, authentic lives. Psychedelics support clients in acknowledging and healing those hurt places so they no longer have to defend against their (often unconscious) feelings. In the process, layers of protection fall away and the beauty of their truest selves is revealed. That is why I call my blog SOUL DIG. When the protective walls come down, our souls are revealed. For more information about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, download my free resource: |
In a time when mental health is gaining the recognition it needs, new and effective treatments are emerging to make a difference. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is at the forefront, offering new hope for those who haven't found success with conventional approaches. Let's delve into how this innovative method is transforming the landscape of mental and emotional wellness.
Exploring the Promise of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Originally used as an anesthetic, ketamine is revealing its capabilities in mental health treatment. Combined with psychotherapy, it facilitates a unique healing space, allowing deep introspection and emotional exploration. This therapy assists in addressing complex issues at their core, enabling significant breakthroughs.
A New Hope for Persistent Mental Health Challenges
For many navigating the intricacies of mental health, the path has been fraught with obstacles. Standard treatments don't always suffice, leaving some in search of more. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy emerges as a beacon for those dealing with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more, offering rapid symptom relief, a stark contrast to the slower effects of traditional therapies.
Deepening the Healing Experience
This therapy transcends mere medication administration. It's an immersive healing experience, guided by skilled professionals, aiming not just to relieve symptoms but to promote personal growth and understanding. It encourages profound self-reflection, helping uncover and address the roots of emotional distress.
Promoting Brain Rejuvenation
One of the standout benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is its effect on the brain, particularly in enhancing neural plasticity. It fosters the development of new neural pathways, aiding in the reformation of mood regulation and thought processes. This neuroplasticity offers a pathway to sustainable mental health improvements.
Catalyzing Personal Transformation
Change, especially in altering deep-seated thought and behavioral patterns, is challenging. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy acts as a potent catalyst for such transformation, enabling a state of deep introspection and openness to new perspectives, facilitating a journey of healing and self-discovery.
Embarking on a Path to Wholeness
More than symptom management, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is about profound personal change. It supports a journey towards a more integrated self, empowering individuals to lead enriched lives, beyond their conditions.
Advancing Mental Health Care
As our understanding of mental health evolves, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy stands as a symbol of progress and the resilience of the human spirit. If mental health struggles have been a constant battle, this therapy might offer the breakthrough needed.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy not only alleviates symptoms but also invites a deeper connection with oneself. It's crucial to consult healthcare professionals to determine its suitability. As we explore this new horizon in mental health care, we open doors to healing and fulfillment for all.
Let's journey together towards a future filled with hope and well-being.
Interested in learning more about Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy
Hi, I'm MaryI help clients heal their wounded parts, so that they can claim the superpowers of post-traumatic growth, and live integrated, authentic lives. Psychedelics support clients in acknowledging and healing those hurt places so they no longer have to defend against their (often unconscious) feelings. In the process, layers of protection fall away and the beauty of their truest selves is revealed. That is why I call my blog SOUL DIG. When the protective walls come down, our souls are revealed.
For more information about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, download my free resource:
For all my rockstar, hyper- independent, overachieving friends out there….
Did you know that the unrelenting need to succeed can be a result of trauma?
Mainstream ideas about “trauma victims” as weak, sick, and unproductive are just not true.
Yes, for those who don’t have the resources, support or safety to heal, the effects of trauma, like addiction, illness & disability, can be obvious.
However, in my practice, I’m reminded again and again how trauma can also result in hyper-productivity & staggering self-reliance, characteristics that look like resilience and are, in many ways. But it comes at a cost, physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I want to share a video that took my breath away, with its breadth, depth and understanding of how trauma can manifest, how it affects our health, and ways of healing, including psychedelics. It is an episode from the "Better!" with Dr. Stephanie Podcast. In it, Dr. Stephanie Estima interviews Dr. Sara Szal Gottfried, and they explore trauma, autoimmunity, and approaches to healing.
This interview is long …
However, it is the best synthesis of what I am learning about the interaction between trauma/ behavior/ health/ functional medicine/behavior/spirituality- that I have seen. They focus on women, but I think this video is a gift to all survivors, regardless of gender. Please find the link here:
Hi, I'm MaryI help clients heal their wounded parts, so that they can claim the superpowers of post-traumatic growth, and live integrated, authentic lives. Psychedelics support clients in acknowledging and healing those hurt places so they no longer have to defend against their (often unconscious) feelings. In the process, layers of protection fall away and the beauty of their truest selves is revealed. That is why I call my blog SOUL DIG. When the protective walls come down, our souls are revealed.
For more information about Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, download my free resource:
