Afleveringen
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In this episode of "The Psychedelic Couch," Melissa Barker discusses her journey of healing from sexual trauma using psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Melissa shares her harrowing yet transformative story, beginning with childhood trauma, compounded by an assault at 17, and subsequent traumatic relationships throughout her 20s and early 30s. Despite these challenges, Melissa embarked on a profound healing journey in her late
20s, engaging in therapies such as EMDR, EFT, breath work, and Kundalini yoga, ultimately being diagnosed with complex PTSD due to the extensive trauma she endured.
A significant turning point in her healing journey came with the intentional use of psychedelics. Initially exploring these substances alone, Melissa describes a pivotal MDMA journey in December 2022, facilitated by a trusted guide. This experience allowed her to release deeply held trauma, access repressed parts of herself, and foster a deeper sense of trust and safety.
Melissa also recounts the challenges of integrating these profound experiences, emphasising the importance of working with protector parts within the Internal Family Systems (IFS) framework.
She highlights the delicate balance between accessing traumatic memories and ensuring these protective aspects of the psyche feel secure and supported.
The episode further explores the complexities of navigating the psychedelic space, including the potential risks of working with less ethical practitioners. Melissa's story underscores the necessity of finding trustworthy guides and the transformative potential of psychedelics when used responsibly and with proper support.
Overall, this episode offers a compelling narrative of resilience, healing, and the profound impact of psychedelics in trauma therapy, providing valuable insights for listeners interested in the therapeutic potential of these substances.
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Dr. Melissa Barker, EdD is an entrepreneur, activist, and emerging voice in the growing psychedelics movement. Dr. Barker is the founder of The Phoenix Project, a community-led mental health tech platform that’s now in the process of developing AI-assisted support for trauma survivors who are utilizing psychedelic therapy.
Her experiences with ketamine, MDMA/MDA, psilocybin, and LSD (alongside her work helping other survivors) spurred her into a deeper understanding of what healing from sexual trauma, abuse and violence means for women, particularly in today’s current climate.
Dr. Barker has appeared on The Psychedelic Podcast by Third Wave, Sex Love Psychedelics, and many others. She recently co-anchored the panel “MDMA Saved My Life: Psychedelics & Healing from Sexual Trauma” at SXSW 2024 alongside Sutton King, Dr. Sunny Strasburg, and Dr. Cat Meyer.
Follow Melissa: @drmelissabarker and at www.iamphoenixproject.com
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
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In this episode, the guest, Chiara Baldini, delves into the role of festivals as spaces for countercultural expression and personal transformation. Chiara discusses the dual nature of festivals as both entertainment venues and sites for deeper societal change, where participants can recharge and become more aware of ways to improve reality. She explores the historical context of countercultural festivals like Woodstock, which were pivotal in promoting revolutionary ideas and values.
Chiara reflects on the 1960s counterculture movements, their political and spiritual dimensions, and their lasting impact on contemporary festival culture. She provides insights into the evolution of these movements and their ongoing influence on modern-day festivals like Boom Festival.
Additionally, Chiara touches on the historical significance of the Dionysian cults in ancient Greece and their techniques of ecstasy, which included dance, music, and psychotropic substances. She discusses how these practices were led by women and maintained certain traditions despite the patriarchal context of their times.
This episode offers a rich exploration of the transformative potential of festivals, the intersection of spirituality and politics, and the ongoing relevance of ancient ecstatic practices in contemporary culture.
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Chiara Baldini is a raver, researcher, author, and freelance curator from Florence (Italy). She investigates the evolution of the ecstatic cult in the West, particularly in Minoan Crete, ancient Greece and Rome, contributing to anthologies, psychedelic conferences and festivals. She was the program curator of Boom Festival’s cultural area Liminal Village from 2010 to 2023. In 2015 and 2016 she also set up and curated ConTent, the first cultural area in Fusion Festival, Germany. She has recently co-curated an anthology called “Psychedelic Mysteries of the Feminine” investigating the intersection between the feminine principle and altered states of consciousness. She is currently a PhD candidate at the California Institute of Integral Studies (CIIS) in the Philosophy, Cosmology and Consciousness program. She lives between Italy and Portugal and she expresses her deep love for music by often playing as DJ Clandestina.
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Viewing recommendations:
Chiara Baldini - Countercultural Festivals; Then & Now at Breaking Convention 2024
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=npah4vQCrb0
Dionysus: Ritual, Rave & Revolution
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjKkmvDmI67RidARHR0-r0sbh2Z8FbjFt
Follow Chiara:
Academia: https://independent.academia.edu/chiarabaldini
Instagram: @iamalwayschiara
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chiara.baldini.9862
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/clandestina-2-0
Book: https://www.innertraditions.com/books/psychedelic-mysteries-of-the-feminine
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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In this episode of The Psychedelic Couch, host Clare Faulkner is joined by Joe and Kyle, the co-founders of Psychedelics Today, to discuss the rapidly evolving world of psychedelic therapy. The conversation focuses on the growing importance of proper safety protocols, education, and comprehensive training for facilitators working with psychedelic substances such as MDMA, psilocybin, and ketamine. Joe and Kyle emphasise how vital it is for facilitators, whether in underground or legal settings, to be thoroughly prepared to ensure both safety and effective therapeutic outcomes for their clients.
A key theme in the discussion is the ongoing legal and medical advancements surrounding psychedelics in the U.S. The episode touches on the groundbreaking steps being taken in places like Oregon, where psychedelics have been fully legalised, and the upcoming FDA decision on MDMA-assisted therapy. Joe and Kyle highlight how this shifting landscape requires innovative training approaches that integrate both traditional therapy methods and newer, more flexible models that embrace non-directive frameworks.
The podcast also delves into the challenges of the current lack of standardised accreditation for psychedelic therapists. With new state regulations beginning to take shape, there is hope that these standards will provide clearer guidelines for training future facilitators. Throughout the conversation, Joe and Kyle stress the importance of ongoing personal development and community support for those guiding others through psychedelic experiences. Facilitators must engage in their own inner work, cultivate patience, and seek mentorship to ensure ethical responsibility and trauma-informed care.
Ultimately, the episode underscores the complexity of psychedelic therapy and the need for facilitators to be not only skilled in therapeutic techniques but also deeply aware of the broader cultural and ethical implications of working with psychedelics. For those interested in pursuing a career in this field, the episode provides information about Psychedelics Today’s training programs, including their comprehensive 12-month course.
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Joe Moore co-founded Psychedelics Today in 2016 with Kyle Buller. As CEO, Joe has co-created one of the planet's best-known psychedelic podcasts and training platforms. He combines over 20 years of avid psychedelic study and training with over 20 years of experience in software and multinational project management. Joe is a leading expert in transpersonal breathwork, a board member of the Psychedelic and Pain Association and the Psychedelic Medicine Coalition, and a sought-after international speaker on the intersecting subjects of psychedelic medicine and healing, breathwork, drug policy, medical innovation, international justice, and environmentalism.
Kyle's interest in exploring non-ordinary states of consciousness began at the age of 16 when he suffered a traumatic snowboarding accident. After this near-death experience, Kyle’s life changed dramatically. Kyle subsequently earned his B.A. in Transpersonal Psychology from Burlington College, where he focused on studying the healing potential of non-ordinary states of consciousness by exploring shamanism, Reiki, local medicinal plants and plant medicine, Holotropic Breathwork, and psychedelic psychotherapy. Kyle has been studying Dreamshadow Transpersonal breathwork with Lenny and Elizabeth since October 2010.Kyle earned his M.S. in clinical mental health counselling with an emphasis in somatic psychology from Prescott College. Kyle is a Licensed Associate Counsellor and offers psychotherapy services specializing in psychedelic integration, spiritual emergence, and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Kyle’s clinical background in mental health consists of working with at-risk teenagers in crisis and with individuals experiencing an early episode of psychosis and providing counselling to undergraduate/graduate students in a university setting.
Follow Psychedelics Today: www.psychedelicstoday.com
@psychedelicstoday
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
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In this episode of "The Psychedelic Couch," Sarah Tilley delves into the expanding world of psychedelic-assisted therapy, with a special focus on its applications for couples. She discusses the growing interest and the increasing medical acceptance of psilocybin, describing how this powerful substance is being used to enhance intimacy and connection in relationships. Sarah shares her experiences and insights from collaborating with Imperial College on pioneering research into psilocybin-assisted couples therapy, shedding light on the transformative potential of these therapies.
Sarah also addresses common misconceptions about psychedelic therapy and emphasises the need for responsible, well-supported therapeutic practices. Drawing from her diverse background in natural and plant medicine, she highlights the importance of creating holistic healing programs that integrate body, mind, and spirit. Her reflections offer a compelling vision of how psychedelics can be safely and effectively used to foster deeper human connections and promote overall well-being.
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Sarah is a psychedelic guide, educator, holistic therapist, musician, mother, and founder and CEO of Beautiful Space, a Dutch based legal psychedelic-assisted therapy program for couples and individuals focusing on female empowerment and relationship sexual wellbeing.
Sarah’s background working with couples, families, individuals and groups originates in complementary medicine, plant medicine and expanded states of consciousness and spans 20 years of holistic and clinical practice.
Sarah has been studying with Esther Perel Sessions online program for the past 6 years and Betty Martin’s Wheel of consent.
Creator of the Beautiful Space Method, this is an inclusive program for non-binary modern relationships, with a 12-week directional journey based on MAPS protocol with psychedelic interventions. Sarah facilitates couples from disconnect back to connection, addressing family of origin, childhood story and trauma.
Beautiful Space is currently in research collaboration with Imperial College London investigating psilocybin and relationship wellbeing with psychological support.
Follow Sarah: @beautifulspace__ @sarah.tilley.wellness and at
www.beautifulspace.org
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
Book recommendations and recourses:
Recapture the Rapture: Rethinking God, Sex, and Death in a World That's Lost Its Mind by Jamie Wheal
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In this episode Clare sits down with Cesar Marin, a former CNN journalist turned advocate for microdosing and plant medicine. Cesar shares his transformative journey from a demanding career and cannabis dependency to discovering the profound benefits of psilocybin mushrooms. At the age of 55, Cesar began microdosing as a tool for personal growth, overcoming addiction, and enhancing creativity and empathy.
He discusses the science and protocols of microdosing, emphasising its potential to create new neural pathways, foster emotional clarity, and build resilience. Cesar highlights the importance of education, intention-setting, and integration, advocating for responsible use. He also introduces his initiatives, including the website Microdosing Over 50and his apparel brand Cultivating Wisdom, aimed at normalising discussions around psychedelics.
Cesar’s inspiring story underscores the potential of psychedelics to empower individuals at any stage of life to reinvent themselves and build meaningful connections. Whether you're curious about microdosing or seeking tools for self-improvement, this episode is a heartfelt guide to embracing the present moment.
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Cesar Marin is a former CNN producer turned entrepreneur, author, and mentor. He is the founder of Cultivating Wisdom, an inclusive psychedelic lifestyle and apparel brand designed to inspire meaningful conversations and personal transformation for people of all backgrounds. Within this umbrella, Cesar created Microdosing Over 50, a platform dedicated to helping those over 50 unlock their potential through microdosing, biohacking, and personal growth. With a passion for storytelling and a deep commitment to fostering wisdom, creativity, and community, Cesar brings a unique and diverse perspective to the psychedelic space, empowering others to embrace the second chapter of life with curiosity and purpose.
Follow Cesar Marin: @cultivating.wisdom
www.microdosingover50.com
https://cultivatingwisdom.net
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
For a 20% discount of Cesar’s apparel brand us code voucher: Couch20
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In this episode of "The Psychedelic Couch," our host Clare Faulkner speaks with Matthew Bruce, who shares his transformative journey from an Australian soldier to a healer in the microdosing space. Matthew discusses his experiences with PTSD, sexual dysfunction, and the profound impact of childhood experiences on adult sexuality and emotional regulation. The episode explores the importance of self-awareness, emotional regulation, and the healing potential of psychedelics. Matthew emphasises the significance of setting personal goals, understanding the effects of diet on mental health, and fostering healthy male sexuality for broader societal healing. The conversation also offers valuable insights into personal growth and community well-being.
Matthew Bruce has worked in the somatic healing space for eight years and is a trained facilitator across multiple somatic modalities. Over the years, he has studied and taught as a somatic sexologist with New Paradigm Intimacy, including serving as a male-bodied facilitator for 55 women in a 12-month somatic sexologist training. Matt loves exploring the intersection of dysfunction and embodiment and will share valuable tips on how modern herbs and the removal of certain substances can support sexual evolution through nervous system regulation.
Matthew's career highlights include collaborations with Microsoft, becoming an Amazon bestseller, and appearances on Nova Radio and Channel Seven, insight timer and more. Originally from Yorta Yorta land in Victoria, he’s excited to return home to share his journey, including how he overcame personal sexual challenges after serving in Afghanistan and ten years of active service in the Australian military and special forces.
Follow Psychedelics Matthew Bruce: @matthewbruce.official
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
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In this moving episode, we delve into the story of Tobias Penno, an Australian academic, who questioned the social fabric of his community—a journey that led to tragedy and ultimately his transformative path into social work. During his travels in South America, he encountered ayahuasca, a powerful psychedelic that marked a clear division in his life: before and after. This profound experience reshaped his entire existence, turning him into a passionate advocate for psychedelics.
Tobias shares his unique insights on integrating his South American experiences upon returning to Australia. He discusses the therapeutic potential of psychedelics and how these experiences have informed his academic research. His studies revealed ten key themes of ayahuasca's impact, highlighting the contrast between traditional medical systems and the valued community support within different cultural frameworks. He emphasises the necessity of confronting personal darkness to achieve growth and how ayahuasca serves as a guiding teacher, revealing deep truths about oneself and fostering acceptance.
The conversation explores how his ayahuasca journeys have improved his practice as a therapist, particularly through embodiment work in psychedelic integration therapy. He outlines four core principles in this field: philosophy, knowledge, capacity, and practices. Psychedelics, he argues, enhance somatic awareness, and different substances offer unique benefits—for instance, ketamine aids dissociation, mushrooms offer spiritual and bodily insights, MDMA fosters self-compassion and trauma healing, and cannabis acts as a somatic psychedelic.
We discuss the importance of preparation and the role of touch in therapy, the potential for psychedelics in couples and sex therapy, and the necessity of relational safety. He also sheds light on recent regulatory changes in Australia, including the rescheduling of psilocybin and MDMA for therapeutic use, and the establishment of the first psychedelic clinic in Melbourne. He highlights the critical role of AMAP in regulating psychedelic therapy and advocates for a multidisciplinary approach that balances medical, spiritual, and community elements.
The episode also touches on the intersection of indigenous communities and psychedelic medicines in Australia. He explains the cultural dislocation experienced by descendants of colonizers and the need for all to reconnect with the land.
Join us for an enlightening discussion on how psychedelics can reweave the social fabric, promote healing, and foster a deeper connection to ourselves and our communities.
Tobias Penno is an academic and lecturer in Social Work at the University of Western Australia (U.W.A). His first academic publication titled ‘How Ayahuasca Offers Psychosocial Wellbeing’ won the social work research prize in the school of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Science at U.W.A. in 2017.
Tobias is the current chair of the Australian Psychedelic Society, and co-ordinates the Mental Health Professional Network’s local Psychedelic Community of Practice. His primary research focus is on the therapeutic skillset for psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Tobias is passionate about the role of social work in this field and is currently part of the therapy team for Reset Mind Sciences, a Perth-based clinical trial using psychedelic medicine for treatment-resistant depression.
Follow Tobias: @altered.mates and at www.alteredmates.com
www.psychedelichealthcare.com.au
Follow The Psychedelic Couch: @thepsychedelicouch
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ZackieL takes us on a profound exploration of music, dance, and ancestral healing. Describing his unique sound as "folkloric global soul," he shares how his music serves as a devotional practice, rooted deeply in ancestral connections.
As ZackieL delves into the transformative power of music, he reveals its capacity to facilitate healing, both for himself and his audience. He eloquently articulates the process of tapping into flow states and liminal spaces, where music becomes a conduit for profound spiritual experiences.
Throughout the conversation, ZackieL reflects on his travels, touching upon shamanic practices, spirit possession, and the transcendent nature of qawwali music. He highlights the resurgence of ancient healing modalities in Western contexts, emphasising the pivotal role of women as mediators between the seen and unseen worlds.
The episode delves into the mesmerising world of trance dance, drumming, and chanting, exploring how these practices entrain brainwaves and promote holistic well-being. ZackieL also shares his insights on the liberating expression of sexual energy through music and dance, celebrating the richness of human experience and aliveness.
ZackieL courageously confronts the legacy of colonialism, acknowledging the need for cultural reparations and an awareness of white privilege within the well-being and therapy realms. He underscores the importance of decolonial healing and the deep work required to address systemic misogyny and exploitation.
The conversation culminates in a profound discussion on Ayahuasca ceremonies, where ZackieL illuminates the transformative power of the Icaro, describing them as "spiritual surgery" for the soul. Through his compelling narrative, listeners are invited to embark on a journey of introspection, healing, and collective transformation.
ZackieL leaves us with a powerful vision of a future where music, dance, and healing are woven into the fabric of everyday life, fostering connection, community, and profound inner growth.
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ZackieL is a multidisciplinary visionary singer/songwriter and artist, and plays the guitar, percussion and handpan. He is a field recordist studies in ethnomusicology, event organiser & MC, fire keeper, and spoken word poet and storywriter. He’s hosted and headlined a plothora of events worldwide. He recently went to the Peruvian Amazon as a field recordist for Universal Pictures.
He spent many weeks living with the Shioibo-Conibo traditional healers, recording and learning the practices of Icaros, which can be described as medicine songs performed in ayahuasca ceremonies. One of these recordings is featured on the award-winning film Tar featuring Cate Blanchett.
He is a long-standing member of the Village101 Community Interest Company which is a black-led arts organisation and cultural initiative dedicated to Reclaiming the Narrative through innovative art, decolonial education, and regenerative culture.
ZackieL’s first single Wild|Wise was released on the 31st March. The second single SOLACE will be released alongside the official music video at the end of April, and the full SOLACE, The EP at the end of May.
Visionary Singer+Songliner, Multi-Instrumentalist - Global Soul Folkloric - Events - Available for Bookings- Field Recorder/Ethnomusicologist:
Follow: @_ZackieL_
FB: Zackiel Lewis-Griffiths
www.zachielmusic.com
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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Welcome to another episode of The Psychedelic Couch. Today, we dive deep into the world of ayahuasca with our special guest, Rafael Costa.
Rafael begins by unravelling the mysteries of ayahuasca, describing it as a potent teacher plant revered by indigenous cultures. He shares his personal journey of discovery and how his background as a psychoanalyst has informed his work with plant medicine seekers.
Drawing from the wisdom of the Yawanawa and Huni Kuin peoples of the Brazilian Amazon, Rafael sheds light on their simple yet profound message for humanity: living in harmony with nature and embracing equality. In a world often consumed by individualism, ayahuasca serves as a bridge between disparate worlds, inviting outsiders to form an alliance with the forest and its indigenous guardians.
Rafael explains its role of hape ayahuasca ceremonies and how it complements the power of the brew. He also delves into the nuances of ayahuasca dosage, contraindications, and its potential for addressing common psychological ailments such as depression, chronic pain, and addiction.
Beyond mere healing, Rafael explores ayahuasca's capacity for deep self-love and multidimensional healing, offering clarity and meaning where traditional Western medicine falls short. He emphasises the importance of preparation, intention setting, and integration, highlighting the significance of diet and lifestyle for ceremony participants.
Ultimately, Rafael paints a picture of a world where the wisdom gained from spiritual realms permeates everyday life, offering hope for addressing humanitarian and climate crises. Join us as we embark on a journey of transformation, guided by the profound teachings of ayahuasca.
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Rafael Costa is a psychoanalyst, with a master's degree in clinical psychology. He conducts field research among the Amazonian indigenous people with a focus on the renaissance of indigenous healing practices. He is particularly interested in the intersection of indigenous cultural practices of Amazonian people and the decolonial approaches to mental health and human development.
He is the founder of the Guardians of the Forest Institute, which act to preserve culture and biodiversity in the Amazon Forest. He is also founder of Reate which works directly with patients with mental health issues.
He currently works in several plant medicine retreats in Brazil and abroad, screening, preparing clients and integrating the work following plant medicine ceremonies.
Overall, Costa's initiatives reflect a holistic approach to addressing interconnected issues of culture, biodiversity, and mental health, rooted in a deep respect for indigenous knowledge and a commitment to fostering sustainable and equitable solutions.
Follow Rafael: +55 21 999163889 (Whatsapp), [email protected]
www.uniretreats.org
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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Welcome to today's episode of The Psychedelic Couch. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of Kundalini yoga and psychedelic facilitation with our special guest, Priscilla Knip. Residing in The Hague, Priscilla is a renowned teacher and facilitator in the psychedelic field, highly respected and trusted by her students and peers alike.
In this enlightening episode, Priscilla takes us on a profound journey to understand the practice of Kundalini and its profound connections with her work in psychedelic facilitation. Through her insightful wisdom and personal experiences, she illustrates how these ancient practices have been instrumental in her own healing journey, allowing her to navigate through unresolved emotions and somatically stored trauma.
Priscilla's deep passion for sharing the transformative potential of these practices shines through as she guides us on a path of self-discovery and healing, ultimately serving others in their own journeys.
Tune in as we explore the intersection of spirituality, wellness, and psychedelics with Priscilla Knip.
Recommended reading:
Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza
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Priscilla is a psychedelic facilitator and integration coach based in The Hague, in The Netherlands. Over the past decade, she has taught Kundalini, Yin, and Restorative Yoga, as well as running meditation workshops. She also facilitates breathwork session and Pranic healing. During her twenties, she began exploring with psychedelics, and various types of plant medicine. These experiences, along with her meditation practice, increased her awareness, allowing her to process unresolved emotions and somatically stored trauma. She was able to navigate new dimensions that felt both familiar and profound, experiencing unconditional love and recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and nature.
She is deeply passionate about sharing the transformative aspects of her journey with others enabling her to hold a secure, safe and loving space for those she works with.
Follow Priscilla: www.kundalinirising.nl
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this insightful episode, Roland Torikian recounts his profound journey into Maya medicine, finding his spiritual calling in the heart of Mexico. Delving into the transformative power of community and ceremony, he explores how these ancient practices connect us to both the seen and unseen worlds.
Initiated into Maya Medicine under the guidance of Lauro de la Cruz during the tumultuous Zapatista uprising, he shares how immersing himself in the culture felt like a homecoming, as he served the local Mayan community.
Central to Maya healing practices are sweat lodges, which symbolise the womb of Mother Earth and serve as spaces for communal healing and transformation. Through the harmonisation of elemental forces and the acknowledgment of the visible and invisible realms, participants are invited to confront and transcend their inner imbalances.
Roland emphasises the importance of intention setting and integration after sweat lodge ceremonies, urging participants to release unwanted states and embrace healing qualities. By reflecting on personal needs and contributions to the wider community, individuals can embark on a journey of self-discovery and collective healing.
Roland also addresses misconceptions surrounding sweat lodges, highlighting the importance of preparation and caution for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Ultimately, the sweat lodge becomes a microcosm of the world, stripping away inauthenticity and fostering humility, as participants reconnect with their bodies and breath, and listen within for guidance and healing.
Listeners are left with a profound understanding of the transformative power of Maya medicine, community, and ceremony in restoring balance and wellbeing.
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Maya Medicine, originating from the Mayan civilization over 2,500 years ago, represents an integrated system of natural healing deeply rooted in the understanding of the interconnectedness between humanity and the natural world.
Central to this medical system is the harmonization and balance of the five elemental forces: earth, water, fire, wind, and space, as well as the recognition of the relationship between the visible and invisible realms.
Roland Torikian's journey as a Maya healer spans nearly three decades, encompassing both Mexico and the UK. His initiation into Maya Medicine occurred under the tutelage of Lauro de la Cruz in the Maya highlands of Chiapas, Mexico. Following his apprenticeship, Roland established a clinic in Dharamshala, North India, while delving into the study of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy.
In his practice, Roland bridges the worlds of Maya and Tibetan medicine and healing, drawing parallels and connections between these ancient traditions. He emphasizes the utilization of ceremonies, meditation, and shamanic practices derived from the Kagyu lineage and Bon Buddhism. By integrating these modalities, Roland offers a holistic approach to healing that addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of individuals.
Through his extensive experience and training, Roland embodies a unique perspective that embraces the wisdom of multiple cultural and spiritual traditions. His work not only serves to heal the ailments of the body but also to nourish the soul and facilitate deeper connections to the natural and spiritual worlds.
Follow Roland : @maya_medicine and at www.mayamedicine.co.uk
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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Welcome to a deeply transformative episode of The Psychedelic Podcast. Today, we embark on a journey into the profound teachings of tantra with our insightful guest, Valentina Leo aka Mrslove.
Valentina begins by unravelling the layers of tantra, drawing from the wisdom of Osho to illuminate the Western world's wounded relationship with eroticism and sexuality. In a society where the spirit and body have been tragically divided by religious dogma, tantra offers a path to healing this rift and accessing a deeper connection with divinity.
But what is tantra really about? Valentina explains that at its core, tantra is an exploration of our erotic relationship with divinity—a practice that goes far beyond mere sexual activity, requiring a deep understanding of its overarching philosophy.
As we delve deeper into the conversation, Valentina challenges the prevailing winner and loser mentality of our society, reminding us of our inherent authority over our own experiences in life. In tantra, every aspect of our being, even our egos, is seen as an expression of the divine, calling us to embrace both freedom and responsibility in equal measure.
We confront the impact of patriarchy and the call for a collective endeavour towards freedom, recognising the true power of the feminine in letting go and embracing inclusion.
Moving beyond the narrative of healing as fixing what's broken, Valentina invites us to embrace practices that acknowledge our inherent wholeness, celebrating every aspect of our existence.
From the intersection of sex and dying to the power of visualisation and imagination, Valentina guides us through the profound journey of entering the body and accessing the depths of the heart. Tears become the lubrication of the heart, leading us to the transformative realisation that grief is not a hindrance but a gateway to expansion and understanding.
In this episode, we confront the core of our being, celebrating every experience as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. Join us as we embrace the wisdom of tantra and embark on a journey of profound transformation and celebration.
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Valentina Leo is passionate and extremely well regard Italian born Tantra teacher based in Cape town. At the core of Valentina's philosophy lies a profound reverence for truth and the marvels of embodied existence. She sees the human body not merely as a vessel but as a sacred gateway to deeper understanding and connection. Her teachings extend beyond the realm of intimate relationships, touching upon every aspect of daily existence. In essence Valentina encapsulates traditional tantric wisdom for modern living and loving.
Follow Valentina: @tantraschool_fascinatingwonder
www.fascinatingwonderment.com and follow her podcast Erotic Wisdom with MrsLove
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this episode, Sophie Bolton takes us on a journey into the transformative power of ecstatic dance, revealing how music and movement can serve as a gateway to profound connection, healing, and self-discovery.
Sophie shares her personal ethos of dance as a vehicle for presence, emphasising its ability to awaken the body's innate wisdom without the need for external substances. Through ecstatic dance, participants are invited to respond to the primal rhythms of the music, tapping into their own consciousness and unleashing their inner magic. She discusses how dance has been overshadowed by drugs and alcohol in our culture but sees it as a path to reclaiming our innate joy and healing.
Drawing from her own experiences with anxiety, Sophie illuminates how movement serves as a potent tool for grounding and releasing mental loops, bringing individuals back into their bodies and the present moment. She envisions a future where dance spaces are accessible in public areas like stations and airports, fostering human connection amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Sophie delves into the essence of ecstatic dance and discusses practices like Gabrielle Roth's Five Rhythms. She explores the primal expression and hedonistic joy inherent in ecstatic dance, allowing participants to reconnect with their primal selves and evoke raw emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
The conversation extends to the tender exploration of sexuality within dance, emphasising the healing potential of embodied movement and intentional music selection. Sophie emphasises the importance of creating inclusive spaces where individuals can authentically express themselves without judgment.
Throughout the discussion, Sophie shares insights from her own journey, including transformative experiences with Samantha Sweetwater in California and the profound connection fostered through silent headphone dances during the COVID-19 pandemic. She underscores the importance of reconnecting with nature and embracing a childlike sense of wonder in dance and in life.
Looking ahead, Sophie envisions a future where dance is readily accessible to all, with public spaces repurposed to accommodate community gatherings and ecstatic expression. Through her passion and dedication, Sophie invites listeners to join her in reclaiming the power of dance as a sacred pathway to self-discovery, healing, and communal connection.
Recommended reading:
- Dancing in the Streets: A history of collective joy by Barbara Ehrenreich
- Maps to Ecstasy by Gabrielle Roth
For Conscious Dances:
@ecstaticdance.uk
www.ecstaticdancelondon.com
www.5rhythms.com
www.ecestaticdance.org
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Sophie's journey as an Ecstatic Dance DJ and Elemental Conscious Dance Facilitator highlights her deep connection to the transformative power of movement, sound and expression. With a decade of experience in Europe's dance scene, she has honed her craft, creating spaces where individuals can explore their vulnerabilities and strengths alike.
In her workshops and retreats, Sophie invites people to embrace their authenticity, recognizing that true strength often lies in acknowledging and embracing one's vulnerabilities. Through Elemental Conscious Dance, she facilitates a journey of self-discovery, using music as a tool to awaken the soul and activate the truth within.
Drawing from a diverse range of musical influences, Sophie's sound journeys traverse cultures and genres, creating a tapestry of beats that invite participants to meet their edges and explore their inner landscapes.
At the heart of Sophie's work lies the belief that through movement and expression, we can tap into the deepest parts of ourselves, allowing our true essence to shine forth. Within the supportive container of her workshops and retreats, participants are invited to explore what it means to be fully alive, held and supported by the greatest power of all: love.
Follow Sophie: @sophiebolton___ and at www.sophiebolton.co.uk
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this episode, join us as Charlene Belcher dispels myths surrounding Kundalini, offering insights into this ancient practice often dubbed as ‘yoga before it was kidnapped.’ We explore the quest for deeper meaning often found lacking in mainstream yoga practices, and how yoga, meaning union, serves as a conduit for reconnecting with our inner wisdom.
Charlene guides us through the transition from the Piscean to the Aquarian age, highlighting its profound impact on modern society. As we navigate a world increasingly disconnected from nature and ourselves, Charlene offers guidance on awakening and reconnecting with our divine essence.
Join us as we uncover the transformative power of Kundalini, explore the creation of The Light Club, and delve into the soul-stirring effects of house music for heart opening and coherence. Through reflection on Charlene’s own healing journey, we're reminded of the importance of cultivating inner calm and grounding, guiding us towards wholeness in our life’s work.
Tune in as we embark on a journey of self-discovery, growth, and awakening.
Recommended reading:
Dulcie Swanston and Iain Price- Dose Personal Prescriptions for a Happier Life and 52 Science Based Ways to Get it.
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Founder of the House of Kundalini, Charlene Belcher is a dedicated and passionate teacher, deeply committed to creating spaces for healing and connection through Kundalini yoga and sound therapy. Her retreat spaces offer a transformative experience for her students emphasising the power of community and coming together to heal and rediscover joy and purpose. By combining her love for Kundalini yoga, music, and spirituality Charlene creates a welcoming and uplifting environment for her students to explore and deepen their practice.
Follow Charlene: @houseofkundalini and at www.houseofkundalini.com
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this insightful episode, Linda Zurak delves into the transformative realm of somatic movement therapy, offering her perspective on healing and self-awareness. Drawing a distinction between traditional talk therapy and somatic movement therapy, Linda emphasises the latter's bottom-up approach, wherein the body serves as a gateway to understanding and addressing deep-seated issues.
Throughout the discussion, Linda illuminates how our bodies hold a different reality, often at odds with our cognitive understanding. This disconnection between what the mind perceives and what the body feels underscores the significance of somatic therapy in bridging the gap between physical, emotional, and psychological realms.
Linda shares practical techniques for staying grounded in one's body and maintaining healthy boundaries, highlighting the power of attuning, and the release of tension through methods like shaking. She underscores the importance of embodied awareness, offering tools to foster a deeper connection with our physical selves.
Moreover, Linda advocates for trauma-informed practices in physical therapy, exercise, and movement instruction, recognising the potential for dissociation in clients. She emphasises the role of the therapeutic relationship in creating safety and facilitating profound insights into the body's wisdom.
The conversation extends to topics such as sexuality, anger expression, and the freedom of midlife, showcasing the diverse applications of somatic movement therapy in enhancing overall well-being. Linda dispels myths surrounding somatic movement therapy and offers guidance on integrating it with traditional talk therapy for holistic healing.
Listeners gain valuable insights into recognising and articulating bodily sensations, fostering introspection, and navigating relational dynamics with greater ease. Through Linda's expertise, they discover the transformative potential of somatic movement therapy as a catalyst for profound personal growth and healing.
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Linda Zurak is a highly experienced and dedicated professional in the field of somatic movement therapy and embodiment teaching. With over 25 years of expertise, she has a deep understanding of the intricate connections between mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Her primary goal is to empower individuals to surpass their perceived limitations and live life to the fullest.
Through her trauma-informed approach, Linda helps people identify and overcome the various blocks that hinder their vibrancy, empowerment, and freedom. She believes in the innate wisdom of the body and works to facilitate a reconnection between individuals and their bodily intelligence.
In essence, Linda's holistic approach to somatic movement therapy and embodiment teaching fosters profound personal growth, leading individuals to live with greater authenticity, vitality, and fulfilment.
Follow Linda: @lindazurak
www.lindazurak.com
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this captivating podcast episode, we delve into the complex landscape of mental health, exploring the challenges faced by the NHS, the potential of psychedelics in treatment, and the ethical considerations surrounding their use.
Dr. Frederico Magalhães sheds light on the mounting pressures on the NHS, with referrals doubling over the past few years, particularly evident in conditions like eating disorders. We explore the intersection of mental health and conditions like Autism, highlighting the need for comprehensive, holistic care.
The conversation then shifts to the role of psychedelics in addressing the mental health crisis. Dr. Magalhães emphasises their unique approach, not centred solely on symptom resolution but on fostering profound insights and connections, challenging societal norms of disconnection. However, concerns about scalability and cost pose challenges, potentially limiting access to those with may need them most.
We delve into the pharmacology of psychedelics, contrasting their effects with traditional SSRIs, and discussing implications for sexual function. While acknowledging their potential risks, Dr. Magalhães stresses the importance of integration and community support in mitigating adverse effects.
Drawing from clinical trials, including those at the Imperial College Centre for Psychedelic Research, we explore promising findings and the role of factors like therapeutic relationship and ego dissolution in treatment outcomes. Psychedelics emerge as agents of change, transcending diagnostic boundaries and amplifying attachment dynamics, necessitating their careful management and integration into existing therapeutic frameworks.
Ethical considerations are considered, from equitable access to guarding against abuse and exploitation. Dr. Magalhães expresses his hopes for the future of psychedelic research, pondering the interplay of drugs, therapeutic relationships, and environmental factors in facilitating healing.
Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the complexities of mental health care, the potential of psychedelics as catalysts for change, and the imperative of navigating ethical considerations to ensure equitable access and responsible use in therapeutic settings.
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Dr. Frederico Magalhães is a psychiatrist and psychedelic guide whose work has focused on the potential clinical applications of psychedelic medicine. His main areas of interest are the therapeutic frameworks and processes of psychedelic therapy for individuals with mental health difficulties, the inherent challenges in this work, and the experiences of both participants and guides.
Dr. Magalhães completed his medical training at the University of Porto with a Master’s Thesis on Mindfulness-based therapies. He specialised in Psychiatry at Oxford, where he currently serves as an NHS consultant psychiatrist and collaborates with the Oxford ketamine clinic on psychotherapeutic interventions.
Dr. Magalhães is an honorary clinical research fellow at the Imperial Centre for Psychedelic Research, where he serves as a study psychiatrist and psychedelic guide on depression and anorexia trials. He is also a member of the Royal College of Psychiatry Psychedelics Working Group.
Follow Dr. Magalhães at LinkedIn: Frederico Magalhães
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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In this enlightening episode, Katka Jacz delves into the transformative power of breathwork and its profound impact on our emotional well-being. Discover how connected circular breathing can unlock stored emotions and trauma, leading to cathartic release and deep healing. Katka guides us through the physiological processes of breathwork sessions, shedding light on the common sensations experienced, from tingling to shifts in body temperature.
Explore the intersection between breathwork and traditional psychotherapy, and how together they support personal growth and healing journeys. Learn about various breathwork modalities like Holotropic and Rebirthing Breathwork, and how they offer unique pathways to self-discovery.
Katka vulnerably shares her own trauma journey and how breathwork became her lifeline, allowing her to navigate grief and reclaim inner peace. Gain insights into integrating breathwork lessons into daily life, finding reputable facilitators, and understanding contraindications.
Join us as we explore the transformative potential of breathwork in deepening self-connection and fostering meaningful relationships.
Book recommendations and recourses:
- www.naturalbreathing.com
- Breathe Well by Aimee Hartley
- Waking The Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Lavine
- Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
- A New Earth and The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- Just Breath by Susan Wiggs
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Katka Jacz is a seasoned intuitive breathwork facilitator, complemented by her extensive training in various schools of yoga and meditation. Her journey into this field was catalysed by significant traumatic events which ignited a profound commitment to spiritual exploration and healing.
Navigating through the challenges of her own healing process, Katka has found solace and insights on her path. Despite the difficulties encountered along the way, her journey has been characterized by invaluable lessons, inspiration, and a sense of enlightenment.
Currently residing in The Hague, Katka extends her expertise in breathwork facilitation to both individual and group settings. With her compassionate guidance and wealth of experiential knowledge, she welcomes individuals to embark on their own transformative journeys toward healing and self-discovery.
Follow Katka: @katkajacza and at www.katkajacz.nl
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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Dr. Molly Maloof specializes in tailoring health optimization and personalized medical solutions for high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and technology leaders. Prior to founding Adamo Bioscience, she spent three years pioneering a course on health span within Stanford University's Wellness Department. Her company, Adamo Bioscience, is dedicated to showcasing the measurable impact of human connection on healing processes.
At the forefront of her endeavours is the development of The Adamo Method, a ground-breaking sex therapy program designed to address sexual dysfunction, enhance relationship bonds, and promote sexual health. In her boutique medical practice, Dr. Maloof conducts personalized medical research and optimization strategies for clients from companies including OpenAI, Zenga, Amazon, McKinsey, and Deutsche Bank.
With over a decade of experience, she has advised and consulted for over 50 companies in digital health, consumer health, and biotechnology. Dr. Maloof, also the author of The Spark Factor, leads the charge in personalized medicine, digital health technologies, biofeedback-assisted lifestyle interventions, psychedelic medicine, and evidence-based wellness products and services.
Follow Dr Molly: @drmolly.co/ @livingadamo and at www.drmolly.co
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
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Welcome to The Psychedelic Couch, a podcast delving into the realms of expanded consciousness and holistic healing. Hosted by Clare Faulkner, a psycho-sexologist and relationship psychotherapist, this podcast invites listeners on a transformative journey exploring ancient spiritual practices, psychedelics, plant medicines, and contemporary therapeutic modalities.
In conversations with special guests, Clare uncovers the therapeutic potential of practices like breath-work, dance, yoga, psychedelics, and sound healing, to name a few. Listeners are invited to be inspired by the ways these powerful tools can be used responsibly and safely to transform every aspect of their lives.
Clare shares her own profound experiences with expanded states, firmly believing in their power to facilitate deep healing and personal growth. As a psychotherapist, Clare recognises the lack of comprehensive and accessible information about expanded states and their healing benefits. Through the podcast, she aims to provide education, guidance, and resources to those interested in exploring these modalities safely and responsibly. Furthermore, she seeks to create a supportive community for holistic healing, recognising the importance of relationships and community.
Clare acknowledges the growing interest in alternative healing modalities, fuelled by increasing research and anecdotal evidence supporting their efficacy. With a world facing numerous challenges and a cultural shift towards mindfulness, wellness, and self-discovery, now is the perfect time to delve into these topics, drawing wisdom from ancestors, indigenous people, and grassroots practitioners.
The podcast serves as a platform for listeners to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. Clare welcomes everyone to join in on The Psychedelic Couch, where healing begins and connection thrives, as profound insights into love, compassion, and the beauty of the human condition are discovered.
Join us on this journey of exploration and transformation.
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The Psychedelic Couch is hosted by Clare Faulkner, a Psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Certified Psycho-Sexologist.
Follow The Psychedelic Couch on Instagram at @thepsychedelicouch
Follow Clare on Instagram at @clarefaulknertherapy
