Scope of Practice

We talk with Peter Grayson, LCDP, Director of Addiction and Recovery at Nushama, a network of psychedelic wellness centers based in New York City, who gives us an introduction and overview into psychedelic assisted treatment for mental health and substance use disorders. It is paramount to note that this recording is not meant to be medical advice, strictly informational to those in the field with an interest in learning more.

We speak with Dr. Bob Lynn, national and international expert on trauma about the field's focus on past experiences and events, rather than on providing care for what the client presents in the session. Are we losing sight of treating clients "where they are at"?

We discuss SMART Recovery with Pete Rubinas, the organization's Executive Director. In addition, we talk about other empowering options and how to change the narrative to include the whole person.

We speak with Chaz Franke about bringing the authentic self to both professional relationships to ensure the positive use of countertransference as both a clinical and supervisory tool.

Andrew Bordt, M.Ed. of the Institute for the Advancement of Group Therapy joins the podcast to talk about the state of group therapy in the SUD treatment industry, offering insight into improving the client experience.

Despite many efforts from the prevention and public health communities to deter or reject marijuana legalization, many states have passed legalization of use and of retail sales. We speak with noted preventionist and trainer Shannon Spurlock of Rhode Island about how the field has changed/needs to change in a time of increased access.

Journalist and person in long-term recovery Maia Szalavitz joins the podcast to talk about her op-ed piece in the New York Times on Sunday, March 11 where she discussed the prevalence of 12 Step programming and requirements in treatment facilities despite the courts ruling that it violates the First Amendment rights of those clients who object.

We discuss some of the issues that NFL players face in the wake of the Damar Hamlin incident, including facing one's own vulnerability, mortality and vicarious trauma. L.A. Rams Team Psychologist Dr. Carrie Hastings joins the podcast to shed light on the seismic culture shift in the league where mental health is part of the focus on overall well-being.

LeRon Barton, author, artist, and 3x TedX speaker joins us to talk about institutionalized racism and SUD care.

We talk with Sober AF (stands for "and fun" of course!) Duke Rumely about tailgate parties at music festivals, sporting events and other activities that allow for individuals to enjoy recreational opportunities without alcohol or drugs, with the hope of inspiring others to follow suit.