The Future of Psychedelic Therapy
I recently finished How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan, a fascinating account of the history and therapeutic potential of psychedelics. One analogy stood out to me: our neural pathways are like sled tracks on a snowy hillside. Over time, we get stuck in the same deep grooves of thinking and reacting. Psychedelics act like a fresh layer of snow, filling in those old tracks and allowing us to travel in a entirely new direction.
The Intersection of EMDR and Psychedelics
During his experiences, Pollan was encouraged to "go toward the fear" and "go with the flow"—to set an intention and allow his mind to travel where it needed to go. As I read this, I immediately heard the phrases I use every day with my clients: "Go with that" or "Notice that."
In EMDR Therapy, we tap into emotions, somatic responses, and images tied to negative beliefs. By doing so, we lay a fresh neural pathway based on a positive, adaptive belief. The research currently blooming on how to integrate these two therapies is incredibly promising; both aim to unlock the brain's natural ability to heal itself.
Beyond the "High"
Psychedelics—including MDMA, Ketamine, Psilocybin, and even Cannabis—have often suffered from a bad reputation fueled by the media. However, many of these substances are being explored for deep therapeutic applications.
As we saw with the evolution of cannabis, there is more than just a "high" available to us. My hope is that we approach psychedelic therapy with a more informed, clinical lens than we did with recreational cannabis. It is about the medicine, not just the escape.
Educate and Integrate
If this interests you, I encourage you to do your research. Whether you are exploring traditional Life Coaching to set new life intentions or looking into clinical psychedelic resources, the goal is the same: to find the path that resonates with your healing.
About the Author
Sarah Lacy, LPCC is an EMDR Specialist and Life Coach based in Rocky River, Ohio. She provides in-person support to the Lakewood, Westlake, and Bay Village communities, as well as Telehealth sessions throughout the state.
If these words resonate with you, reach out to take the next step in your healing journey.
