This discussion with Tom Feegel, founder of Beond, explores their personal journey with opioid addiction and their family member's recovery using ibogaine treatment in Mexico. This experience inspired the creation of Beond, a facility that integrates plant medicine treatments, specifically ibogaine, with comprehensive clinical care, therapeutic support, and a focus on creating a supportive and comfortable environment. Feegel's narrative underscores the power of ibogaine in addressing not only the physical aspects of addiction but also the underlying trauma that often fuels it.

Feegel detailed the ibogaine treatment process at Beond, highlighting its holistic approach. The journey begins with remote coaching, preparing individuals for the experience. This is followed by thorough clinical evaluations to ensure safety and suitability for ibogaine treatment. The treatment itself involves administering primary and supplementary doses of ibogaine under strict medical supervision. A crucial component of Beond's approach is integration therapy, which helps individuals process their ibogaine experience and translate their insights into lasting positive change. This integration work is essential for long-term healing and preventing relapse.

A significant portion of the conversation focused on differentiating ibogaine treatment from ketamine treatment. Feegel explained that while both substances have shown promise in treating addiction and mental health conditions, they differ significantly in their effects and approach. Ibogaine treatment is described as a longer, more intensive process, delving deep into the root causes of addiction and trauma. The ibogaine experience is known for its intensity and depth, often providing individuals with profound insights into their lives and patterns of behavior. Importantly, ibogaine itself is not addictive, unlike some other treatment medications. Beond emphasizes integration therapy as a critical part of the ibogaine process, supporting patients in applying their new understanding to everyday life.

In contrast, ketamine treatment is typically shorter and often requires repeated sessions. While ketamine can be effective in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety, and can help with cravings, it primarily addresses the surface level of addiction rather than the underlying causes. Feegel stressed that ibogaine is not a recreational drug and its use requires careful medical supervision due to its potency and potential effects on the body. Beond's approach prioritizes safety and provides a structured environment for individuals to undergo this transformative experience. The combination of ibogaine's therapeutic potential with Beond's comprehensive care model aims to provide individuals with a powerful opportunity for lasting recovery.