Mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, and trauma related disorders remain difficult to treat, especially when underlying cognitive and emotional patterns persist over time. Emerging research suggests psychedelic assisted therapies may work by temporarily changing how the brain processes information and the sense of self.

In this episode of Extend, we continue our conversation with Dr. Rick Doblin, founder of MAPS, to explore the mechanisms behind psychedelic therapy. We break down how compounds like LSD may reduce activity in the default mode network, how this shift affects perception and emotional processing, and why integration is essential for translating short term insights into lasting change.

We also explore how traditional practices like ayahuasca combine psychological and spiritual frameworks, and how these approaches are shaping new perspectives on trauma, behavior change, and mental health treatment.

Dr. Rick Doblin is the founder and executive director of MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies), the organization leading global research into psychedelic assisted therapies and working to develop evidence-based treatments for PTSD and other mental health conditions.

What We Discuss:

(1:01:22) LSD therapy for trauma and addiction
(1:10:10) Psilocybin, creativity, and cognition
(1:12:05) DMT, ego dissolution, and consciousness
(1:18:21) Ayahuasca traditions and addiction recovery
(1:26:39) MDMA therapy and intergenerational trauma
(1:31:36) Ketamine clinics and treatment resistant depression

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

Timeline: Go to timeline.com/drshah to get 20% off your order.

Learn more about Dr. Shah:

Website: drshah.com

Clinic: next-health.com

Instagram: darshanshahmd

Learn more about Dr. Rick Doblin:

Website: maps.org

Instagram: rickdoblinphd

X: @RickDoblin

154. Dr. Rick Doblin - Part 2: Psychedelics, MDMA Therapy, and the Future of Mental Health

Extend Podcast with Darshan Shah, MD

154. Dr. Rick Doblin - Part 2: Psychedelics, MDMA Therapy, and the Future of Mental Health