In this episode, Dr. Sharon Niv discusses her work at Joyus, a public benefit company focused on revolutionizing mental health care through personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments.

Dr. Sharon explains the history of ketamine as a treatment for mental health, its mechanisms of action, and the importance of community support in the healing process.

Nick asks Dr. Sharon questions that address common concerns and stigma surrounding ketamine treatment, emphasizing its low risk and potential benefits.

Their conversation also explores the role of neuroplasticity in mental health recovery and the future of AI in therapy.

Dr. Sharon provides insights into personalized treatment protocols and encourages both patients and therapists to consider the benefits of ketamine therapy.

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Sharon Niv is a cognitive psychologist bridging neuroscience and therapy.

• Joyus offers personalized at-home microdose ketamine treatments.

• Ketamine was first synthesized in the 1950s and is used safely in medical settings.

• The drug has shown promise in treating severe depression and suicidality.

• Ketamine works primarily on the glutamate system, unlike traditional psychedelics.

• Lower doses of ketamine can provide therapeutic benefits without destabilizing experiences.

• Community support is crucial for individuals undergoing ketamine treatment.

• Neuroplasticity allows the brain to change and adapt, which is enhanced by ketamine.

• Personalized treatment protocols are essential for effective ketamine therapy.

• AI has potential in mental health, but should not replace human therapists.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sharone Niv and Her Work

02:58 The Journey to Psychology and Entrepreneurship

05:47 The History and Safety of Ketamine

08:45 Ketamine as a Treatment for Mental Health

11:36 Understanding Ketamine's Mechanism and Effects

14:44 The Psycholytic State and Its Benefits

17:40 Addressing Stigma and Concerns Around Psychedelics

20:48 The Joyus Approach to Microdosing Ketamine

23:24 Personal Experiences and Emotional Release

26:45 The Importance of Connection and Exploration

27:14 Exploring Psychoactive Substances and Their Impact

28:14 The Tragic Story of Matthew Perry

32:56 Neuroscience and Mental Health: The Role of Neuroplasticity

39:45 Personalized Treatment Protocols for Mental Health

45:22 Community Support in Mental Health Treatment

47:48 The Future of AI in Therapy

53:07 The Dark Side of AI in Mental Health

54:37 Innovative Uses of AI in Therapy

56:09 Training Therapists for New Technologies

59:43 The Journey of Integrating Ketamine Treatment

01:02:09 Encouragement for Patients and Therapists

01:04:22 Understanding the Risks and Benefits of Ketamine

01:09:52 Navigating the Decision to Try Ketamine

01:12:08 Practical Considerations for Microdosing Ketamine

Find Dr. Sharon Niv here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyous.team/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joyous.friends

Website: https://www.joyous.team/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-niv/ | https://www.linkedin.com/company/joyousteam/

Find Nick Thompson here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/