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I’m briefly pausing my “Summer Travel Series” to explore a topic that’s gaining national attention: ketamine and ketamine therapy.

You may have heard ketamine mentioned in the news—whether in connection with the death of Friends actor Matthew Perry, or Elon Musk publicly endorsing it. But beyond the headlines, there’s an emerging body of evidence showing that, when used therapeutically, ketamine can be life-changing for those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or alcohol use disorder.

On a more personal note, I’ve had several friends undergo ketamine therapy with remarkable results. Their experiences sparked my curiosity and led me to explore this cutting-edge treatment in greater depth.

That curiosity brought me to Nushama, a licensed ketamine therapy clinic in midtown Manhattan, where I sat down with two seasoned psychedelic psychotherapists: Eric Stonebergand Anisa Stechert.

Between them, they’ve treated thousands of patients—ranging from 9/11 first responders and veterans to teenagers battling eating disorders and adults living with anxiety.

In this episode, we cover it all: what ketamine is, which conditions it treats (including some powerful patient stories), how it rewires trauma in the brain, who qualifies as a candidate, and what a typical experience looks like at a clinic like Nushama.

Whether you’re curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between, I invite you to listen with an open mind. This conversation sheds light on a promising new tool in the mental health toolbox—one that could transform the way we approach healing.

Stream the episode now wherever you get your podcasts—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation. And if you haven't already, be sure to follow us on Instagram @TheInterviewWithLeslie

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