Brain Shaman Fredric Schiffer: Dual Brain Psychotherapy — Healing Trauma, Addiction, and the Troubled Mind | Episode 111
In this episode, I interview Dr. Fredric Schiffer, psychiatrist, research associate at McLean Hospital, associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, and pioneer of Dual Brain Psychology. We discuss his innovative approach to understanding and treating trauma, addiction, and other mental health challenges, as outlined in his latest book, Good-bye Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, & PTSD.
Dr. Schiffer explains how each brain hemisphere functions as an independent mind. One side is often troubled, traumatized, and negative, while the other is healthier, more positive, and mature. However, it’s not immediately apparent which hemisphere is which in each individual. Using simple techniques like covering one visual field with your hand, an envelope, or special glasses, you can determine which side is which. This method builds on split-brain research, the brain's visual pathways, and the work of Freud.
We also discuss near-infrared light therapy (transcranial photobiomodulation), applied to the forehead to stimulate the healthier hemisphere. Paired with psychotherapy, these techniques—the light therapy and eye-covering technique—help the healthier side work with its troubled counterpart to facilitate healing. These methods are effective for treating trauma, addiction (likely including fentanyl), and other mental health issues. They can restore health and power to both brain hemispheres and even help transform relationships, communities, and societies.
RESOURCES
BOOKS
- Left Brain, Right Brain by Sally Springer and Georg Deutsch
- Of Two Minds by Fredric Schiffer
PEOPLE
- Michael Hamblin
- Roger Sperry
- Sally Springer
- Sigmund Freud
- Winston Churchill
VOCABULARY
- Buprenorphine/naloxone (Suboxone)
- Id, ego, and superego
- Fentanyl
- Psychoanalysis
- Split-brain
- Triune brain
**Connect and Learn More**
Website: dualbrainpsychology.com
Email: Available in the episode
Book: Good-bye Anxiety, Depression, Addiction & PTSD