Episode 7: Unlocking the Mind: Exploring Ketamine Therapy with Dr. Leathem and Dr. Sharma
Episode Summary:
In Episode 7 of the Plant.Body.Soul. Podcast, join us as we delve deep into the fascinating world of psychedelic-assisted therapy with Dr. James Leathem and Dr. Deepak Sharma of Advanced Wellness and Pain. From discussing the intricacies of the Ketamine-assisted therapy journey, the significance of set and setting, to sharing profound insights on spirituality and the human experience, this episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone curious about this groundbreaking field. Don't miss the chance to gain wisdom from these pioneers, who are committed to integrating this revolutionary therapeutic approach into mainstream healthcare. Tune in and discover the transformative power of psychedelics!
Advanced Wellness and Pain
Show Notes:
Introduction (00:00:55 - 00:01:25)
Introduction of the guests, Dr. James Leathem and Dr. Deepak Sharma, experts in Ketamine therapy.
Overview of the episode topic, exploring psychedelic medicine and its impact on mental health.
Getting to Know Dr. James Leathem (00:01:25 - 00:03:12)
Dr. James introduces himself through a rap allegory, which encapsulates his passion for human consciousness and psychedelic evolution.
He shares about his educational background, mentioning his undergrad at Florida Southern College, medical school at Midwestern University, and his anesthesiology residency at Michigan State.
Dr. James and Dr. Sharma's 'Covid pivot' from practicing anesthesiology to creating Advanced Wellness and Pain is highlighted.
Getting to Know Dr. Deepak Sharma (00:03:12 - 00:04:44)
Dr. Deepak provides insight into his personal background, mentioning growing up in the East Coast and training in Philadelphia and New York.
He shares his experience moving to the West Coast and finally settling in Arizona after a massive fire in Ventura.
The segment concludes with his feelings of finally finding a place to call home in Arizona.
Introduction to Ketamine Therapy (00:05:01 - 00:07:04)
Dr. James provides an explanation of what ketamine therapy is, emphasizing that it should be seen as 'Ketamine-assisted therapy'.
He talks about the different methods of administering Ketamine - sublingual lozenge, intranasal, intramuscular, and intravenous, highlighting the latter as the preferred method due to control and precision.
The segment touches on typical treatments for mental health like SSRIs and mood stabilizers.
The discussion concludes with the history of ketamine and its FDA approval for anesthesia, and later its off-label use for rapid antidepressant effects.
Personal Journey Into Ketamine Therapy [00:11:34 - 00:15:46]
Dr. James Leathem describes his personal journey into ketamine therapy, stating that it started with their 'covid pivot' while working as anesthesiologists in a pain management clinic during the pandemic.
He shares the story of their first patient, a 21-year-old dealing with traumatic brain injuries and suicidal thoughts, whose life changed significantly after just one infusion of ketamine therapy.
Dr. Leathem discusses the importance of understanding the cause and cure for what ails us, and his aim to help patients activate their own inner healer through the use of ketamine and other psychedelic medicines.
The doctors have now fully transitioned to becoming psychedelic medicine specialists, using ketamine as their primary tool. They also encourage listeners to find their Ikigai - something you love, are good at, the world needs, and can make a living from.
Creating a Supportive Community [00:15:51 - 00:16:07]
They mention the sense of community their clinic is building. Patients who have experienced transformation through ketamine therapy often refer others to their clinic, contributing to a network of support.
The Clinic Environment [00:16:07 - 00:17:41]
Jennifer comments on the clinic environment, noting the inviting and detailed design, which contrasts with traditional clinical settings.
Dr. Leathem explains the thought behind the clinic's design, focusing on the importance of 'set and setting' in psychedelic experiences, with 'set' referring to mindset and 'setting' to the environment. He aimed to create an art sanctuary that plants 'seeds in the mindstream of the viewer'.
Choosing the Right Psychedelic and Its Effects [00:21:52 - 00:24:27]
Dr. Deepak Sharma compares the different psychedelics, describing them as different trails leading up the same mountain. Each one, whether it's ketamine, psilocybin, or MDMA, can alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and allow users to feel a greater connection with the universe and the people around them.
Ketamine is the only currently legal psychedelic in the US. While other psychedelics have longer durations and can provide profound experiences, Dr. Sharma suggests ketamine as a good "starter psychedelic" due to its shorter duration and the ability to control its effects in a clinical setting.
Other substances like DMT or LSD can have longer and more intense effects, potentially making them more challenging for someone in a vulnerable state.
The Safety and Control of Ketamine Infusion Therapy [00:24:17 - 00:27:05]
Dr. James Leathem agrees with Dr. Sharma's assessment of ketamine as a controlled, safe place to start for those interested in psychedelic therapy. He explains that ketamine is more controllable than other substances due to the ability to stop the infusion and pull the patient out of a deeper, challenging experience within less than 10 minutes.
The doctors go into detail about how the intravenous delivery system works, explaining that it is rapidly metabolized, which allows patients to come out of peak experiences quickly. This is known as plasma concentration.
They emphasize the importance of preparation and support throughout the experience, which includes grounding techniques, breath work, and preparation sessions with integration coaches.
Ketamine Administration Methods and Choosing a Clinic [00:27:05 - 00:28:12]
Jennifer Miles brings up a discussion about the intramuscular delivery method for ketamine, which some claim offers a more psychedelic experience. Dr. Leathem disputes this claim, stating that with the right techniques, intravenous delivery can provide an equally if not more potent psychedelic experience.
Dr. Leathem highlights the importance of choosing the right clinic when considering ketamine therapy, advising listeners to research each clinic, read reviews, and make an informed decision.
WEEDMAPS COMMERCIAL [32:02-32:56]
Pursuing Dreams and Overcoming Challenges [00:34:04 - 00:35:08]
Dr. James Leathem and Dr. Deepak Sharma discuss their journey of opening their clinic, detailing the challenges they faced in the first year. They share their philosophy of taking risks and following dreams, attributing their current success to that approach.
Dr. Leathem emphasizes the importance of not fearing failure and taking chances in life, referencing the regrets that often come from not pursuing opportunities.
They also touch on the recent opening of their second clinic, signaling their growth and ambition to help more patients.
Creating a Therapeutic Space [00:35:08 - 00:36:03]
The two doctors describe their new clinic in Gilbert, Arizona, detailing its unique, thematic design. Each room represents a different theme - wave, cube, maze, flower, space, and dream - intended to aid patients in their therapeutic journeys.
They explain their goal of creating a healing center rather than just a clinic, making the space more personalized and comfortable for patients.
They also discuss their motto, "Trust the Process," and how it encourages patients to have faith in their treatment.
Demystifying Ketamine Assisted Therapy [00:36:03 - 00:39:25]
Dr. Leathem and Dr. Sharma address common misconceptions about Ketamine, emphasizing that it's not simply a recreational drug or horse tranquilizer but rather a powerful tool for transformation when used correctly.
They draw a distinction between abuse and therapeutic use, arguing that the intention and setting of usage are critical. In their clinic, Ketamine is administered under a doctor's guidance and is seen as a catalyst for transformation.
The doctors clarify that while Ketamine can be misused, when applied correctly there are no long-term harmful effects. They also note that any substance, from food to alcohol, can be abused, but that does not detract from its potential positive uses.
They mention how Ketamine is often misunderstood due to its recreational use but stress that in a therapeutic context it can facilitate powerful personal growth. They underscore the importance of integrating these experiences for lasting positive change.
What to Look for in Ketamine Assisted Therapy or Treatment Centers [00:44:04 - 00:47:08]
Dr. James Leathem discusses what to look for when seeking ketamine-assisted therapy. This includes clinics with doctors on-site, their experience with the medicine, and a strong integration aspect in the treatment.
The importance of measuring progress through survey scores and doing due diligence by checking Google reviews is also stressed.
Dr. Leathem claims that their clinic, though not the least expensive, is the most comprehensive in the state and one of the best in the country.
Helping First Responders and Veterans with Ketamine Assisted Therapy [00:47:21 - 00:49:56]
Dr. Deepak Sharma talks about their work with first responders and veterans through support from the Hundred Club of Arizona and the Bob and Renee Parsons Foundation.
He shares that Bob Parsons, the founder of GoDaddy and a veteran himself, used psychedelics to help him cope after the war. Parsons now supports veterans and first responders in getting care.
The clinic has been able to provide affordable care to 80 firefighters and police officers who only had to pay a fraction of the treatment cost out-of-pocket.
Dr. James Leathem underlines the importance of providing different healing modalities for first responders who witness a lot of trauma in their work. He asserts the need for adding ketamine to the toolbox for mental health treatment for PTSD, alongside Zoloft and Paxil.
Future prospects of Ketamine therapy [00:49:07 - 00:52:32]
Dr. James Leathem discusses the challenge of funding research for ketamine, which is a generic medicine. He mentions potential research into R-Ketamine, an isomer similar to S-Ketamine, which is already patented and approved for treatment-resistant depression.
Dr. Leathem expresses his excitement about their ongoing research on first responders, aiming to introduce ketamine as a therapy modality following traumatic incidents.
Dr. Leathem reports an 86% success rate in treating PTSD in their clinic, measured by at least a 50% reduction in PTSD symptom severity. He indicates an average reduction of 74%.
Envisioning the future of psychedelic medicine [00:52:32 - 00:53:22]
Dr. Leathem reveals his interest in IV psilocin and IV DMT as future treatment options. He sees the potential for these medicines to aid in 'waking people up' quickly and regularly.
He mentions ongoing studies about IV DMT at Imperial College London and previous studies at the University of Mexico.
Interest in expanding the research and applications of Ketamine [00:53:22 - 00:54:41]
Dr. Deepak Sharma expresses interest in researching potential applications of ketamine beyond treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. He mentions inquiries from patients about its potential in treating conditions such as early-stage dementia.
He also mentions the recent introduction of Apple's augmented reality system and the possibility of integrating such technology into their treatment processes.
Psychedelic medicine movement and personal realization [00:54:58 - 00:55:55]
Dr. Leathem views the psychedelic medicine movement as still in its infancy but is excited about its potential.
He shares a quote from Czech psychiatrist Stanislav Grof comparing the impact of psychedelics on psychiatry and psychology to the impact of the telescope on astronomy and the microscope on biology and medicine.
Dr. Leathem emphasizes the role of psychedelics in facilitating a global awakening and in helping to address the ongoing trauma experienced worldwide.
Spirituality and Psychedelics [01:01:13 to 01:03:52]
Dr. James Leathem shares his spiritual beliefs, including the idea that we are spiritual beings having a human experience, and the concept that life is a place to learn lessons for what comes next.
Dr. Leathem shares a quote from Ram Dass, "We're all walking each other home," to describe his belief in collective energy and unity.
He emphasizes the role of trauma in personal growth, positing the equation: trauma + healing = wisdom. He insists that wisdom can only be attained through struggles and hard times.
Dr. Deepak Sharma talks about how psychedelic experiences often lead people to spirituality, regardless of their initial beliefs.
He highlights the idea that we are more than just our physical bodies, and that our essence cannot be created or destroyed, which he believes is a fundamental aspect of spirituality.
Concluding Remarks and Contact Information [01:03:52 to 01:03:20]
Jennifer Miles expresses her appreciation for the perspectives of the two doctors, emphasizing the value of hearing spirituality discussed by clinical physicians.
The doctors share their contact details:
Phone number: (480) 631-4800
They offer free phone consultations and emphasize their commitment to helping those in need.
Jennifer encourages listeners to subscribe to the podcast and leave reviews if they enjoyed the content. She shares their own Instagram handle (Plant.Body.Soul) and website (plantbodysoul.com).
Follow us on YouTube, Instagram, and sign up for our email list for updates and events.
Connect with our guest:
James T. Leathem DO
Advanced wellness & pain
Dr. Leathem is a board-certified anesthesiologist and a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.
Deepak Sharma MD, MBA
Advanced wellness & pain
Dr. Sharma is a board-certified anesthesiologist and a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists.