How People are Using Psychedelics to Help Their Relationships with Dr. Hillary McBride
Sep 13, 2023
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Dr. Hillary McBride, a psychologist specializing in the therapeutic use of psychedelics, explores how psychedelics can enhance relationships. They delve into the importance of vulnerability, combining therapy with psychedelics, feeling safe in the body, and the challenge of being present. They also discuss the potential risks and addiction factors of psychedelics. Additionally, they announce a new season of their podcast focusing on psychedelics and therapy.
Psychedelic therapy allows couples to connect on a deeper level by decreasing fear centers in the brain and enabling individuals to see their partner without defenses or reactive parts.
Psychedelic therapy encompasses different models, including the use of psychedelics in regular therapy sessions, group models, and somatic processing, providing opportunities for individuals to explore emotions, reconnect with their body, and practice new ways of being in relationships.
Deep dives
Psychedelic Therapy for Couples
Psychedelic therapy, particularly with MDMA, has been used in couples therapy to address relational problems such as distress and communication. MDMA decreases fear centers in the brain and increases compassion and awareness, allowing couples to connect on a deeper level. In this therapeutic setting, individuals can experience their partner without defenses or reactive parts, enabling them to build new patterns of connection and see each other more clearly as they truly are.
Different Models of Psychedelic Therapy
Psychedelic therapy encompasses different models, including the use of psychedelics in regular therapy sessions, group models, and somatic processing. The psycholytic model combines psychedelics with traditional therapy, allowing individuals to explore their emotions and experiences in a supported environment. Additionally, psychedelic therapy can benefit individuals who have experienced dissociation by helping them reconnect with their body and complete trauma processing. Group psychedelic therapy offers opportunities for connection and practicing new ways of being in relationships.
Safety and Addiction Concerns
Classic psychedelics are generally not addictive, and individuals often feel a sense of completeness or satisfaction after a profound psychedelic experience. However, substances like MDMA and ketamine have abuse potential, so it's crucial to be mindful and seek guidance from skilled therapists. The focus in potent psychedelic work should be on exploring why being present in ordinary life tends to be challenging rather than escaping reality. It's important to cultivate an acceptance and appreciation for the ordinary and seek integration guides or therapists who can support individuals in navigating their psychedelic experiences.
Dr. Hillary McBride is back to continue our thrilling conversation about PSYCHEDELICS — and how folks are using them to enhance their relationships and lives. She helps us understand:
The importance of seeing our partners – and letting ourselves be seen – without any defenses;
How combining therapy with psychedelics is helping people stay close to their feelings;
Why the first step toward healing is feeling safe in your body; and
An important question for us all: Why is being here so hard?
Dr. Hillary McBride is a Registered Psychologist, researcher, podcaster, author, and speaker, but she identifies most with being a mother. She has lived experience and clinical expertise in the areas of trauma, embodiment, eating disorders, and the intersection of spirituality and mental health. Her research has focused on women's relationships with their bodies across the lifespan, and her books include: Mothers, Daughters, and Body Image; Embodiment and Eating Disorders, and the bestseller The Wisdom of Your Body. Her next book – Practices for Embodied Living – will be released in 2024. Her podcast, Other People's Problems, was listed in the New York Times and Wall Street Journal as essential listening.