Robin Carhart-HarrisEvery podcast appearance, updated as new ones drop

On this episode of Pathways to Well-Being, noted psychiatric researcher Robin Carhart-Harris, PhD, discusses the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies to better understand how these agents may be applied therapeutically to support mental health and brain function.

In part two of my podcast with Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a world-renowned neuroscientist, we explore the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for treating mental health disorders and how it relates to findings in Robin’s brain imaging studies. We specifically focus on Robin’s revolutionary neuroscientific theories such as the “ entropic">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29548884/">entropic brain hypothesis ” which posits that psychedelics increase the complexity and unpredictability of brain activity, disrupting hardened neural pathways correlated with mental illness such as depression and OCD. We also discuss Robin’s famous research finding that psychedelics dysregulate or desynchronize the “ default">https://www.gaia.com/article/psychedelic-research-finds-ego-exists-in-the-default-mode-network">default mode network ” (the ego hub in the brain), which is different from the early media-popularized narrative that psychedelics lower activity in the default mode network. We also spend a fair amount of time discussing the psychology of psychedelics and how people are able to break free from toxic self-beliefs (such as “I’m unworthy”) at the heart of many mental health disorders such as anorexia and fibromyalgia through psychedelic therapy in Robin’s clinical studies. Broadly, we explore this fascinating relationship between order and chaos as it pertains to neuroscience, psychology, and our lived experience of the world as we try to make sense of the bizarre, complex situation we are all in as Homo sapiens in a technologically modernized society. This is one of my favourite conversations so I hope you enjoy it! Chapters: 00:00 Efficacy and Side Effects of Psychedelic Therapy 06:49 Exploring Brain Imaging Work in Psychedelic Research 23:31 Exploring the Default Mode Network and Ego Dissolution 33:27 Interdependent Arising and the Illusion of Self 38:48 Causation vs. Determinism: The Free Will Debate 44:33 Psychedelics and the Entropic Brain Hypothesis 01:00:06 The Dynamics of Brain Activity Under Psychedelics 01:09:10 Understanding the Entropic Brain Hypothesis 01:25:05 Psychedelics and Their Impact on Eating Disorders 01:32:47 Understanding the Paradox of Addiction 01:37:55 Unlearning Toxic Beliefs 01:45:43 Integration and the Impact of Psychedelics 01:55:58 Future Directions in Psychedelic Research Podcast sponsors: 1) Trinergy Health offers a 6-month program for mind-body recovery and wellness. Based on the foundational framework of Diet/trauma/toxins. To schedule an intake appointment, go to https://psychiatry2.com/schedule/ ">https://psychiatry2.com/schedule/">https://psychiatry2.com/schedule/ or call 262-955-6601. Use code Rav10 to get 10% discount for holistic psychiatry program. 2) Alcami Elements - a natural, adaptogenic herbal supplement to kickstart your day! https://www.alcamielements.com/ Receive">https://www.alcamielements.com/">https://www.alcamielements.com/ Receive 10% OFF first order or 30% OFF subscription order

In part one of my in-depth conversation with Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, we explore the political and cultural forces shaping the resurgence of psychedelic therapy. We critique the dominant psychiatric paradigm, which has long reduced mental illness to purely neurochemical dysfunction (leading to the rise of SSRIs), ignoring the psychological, social, and spiritual roots of psychological suffering. Carhart-Harris highlights how this narrow framework has failed to address rising rates of depression, PTSD, and OCD. We also discuss the historical reluctance of institutions like the NIH to fund psychedelic research, despite mounting evidence of its therapeutic potential. Under the previous leadership, psychedelic science was sidelined—but with new NIH leadership and a shifting political climate, there is fresh hope for meaningful support. The conversation emphasizes the need for a more holistic, integrative approach to mental health—one that values inner healing, human agency, and the transformative power of psychedelic experiences. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Psychedelic Therapy 12:48 The Political Landscape of Psychedelics 19:12 The Shift in Mental Health Paradigms 36:55 Understanding the Unique Power of Psychedelics 48:38 Interconnectedness of Psychology, Biology, and Ethics 56:11 Integration After Psychedelic Experiences 01:04:10 Critique of NIH and Funding Challenges 01:26:20 Psychedelics: Beyond Pharmacological Solutions 01:31:35 Expectations and Their Impact on Therapy 01:37:23 Efficacy and Side Effects of Psychedelic Therapy Podcast sponsors: 1) Trinergy Health offers a 6-month program for mind-body recovery and wellness. Based on the foundational framework of Diet/trauma/toxins. To schedule an intake appointment, go to https://psychiatry2.com/schedule/ or call 262-955-6601. Use code Rav10 to get 10% discount for holistic psychiatry program. 2) Alcami Elements - a natural, adaptogenic herbal supplement to kickstart your day! https://www.alcamielements.com/ Receive 10% OFF first order or 30% OFF subscription order using code: ILLUSION This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.illusionconsensus.com/subscribe

In this episode, Robin Carhart-Harris, PhD joins to elucidate the intersection of psychedelics and neuroplasticity. Dr. Carhart-Harris is the Ralph Metzner Distinguished Professor in Neurology and Psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco. Robin founded the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London in April 2019, was ranked among the top 31 medical scientists in 2020, and in 2021, was named in TIME magazine's '100 Next' – a list of 100 rising stars shaping the future. Dr. Carhart-Harris begins by discussing the impact of psychedelics on neuroplasticity and mental health. He explains neuroplasticity as the brain's ability to change, emphasizing its role in mood disorders and substance use and describes how stress atrophies the brain, leading to mental illness. Dr. Carhart-Harris differentiates between neuroplasticity and neurogenesis, noting that while neurogenesis is limited in adults, neuroplasticity can be influenced by psychedelics like ketamine, psilocybin, and MDMA. In closing, he also discusses the entropic brain hypothesis, suggesting that increased brain entropy leads to richer subjective experiences. In this episode, you'll hear: The relationship between neuroplasticity and "canalization" Why homeostatic neuroplasticity may promote mental wellbeing Differences between ketamine, MDMA, and serotonergic psychedelics in terms of neuroplasticity The details of the entropic brain hypothesis Psychedelics' effect on the default mode network The frontiers of research into psychedelics and neuroplasticity Quotes: "So changeability is what plasticity is. And neuroplasticity—that's the ability of the brain to change. Okay, and how is neuroplasticity related to mood disorders like depression and anxiety or substance use disorder or something like that? Well, that's a great question cause we don't have it entirely nailed down. But one of the most reliable findings in biological psychiatry is that stress atrophies the brain." [2:47] "The main thing with ketamine is that the window of increased plasticity is brief… That makes sense because that reflects how ketamine seems to work therapeutically—that it provides relief somewhat short-term, unless it is twinned with, say, psychotherapy or you do repeat administration and get someone out of the rut they were in." [22:15] "We've seen in people with depression, brain networks can become quite segregated from each other—they are ordinarily, they're quite functionally separate and distinct—but that modularity might be a bit elevated in depression. But what we've seen with psilocybin therapy is that separateness between systems, that segregated quality of organization of brain networks, brain systems actually decreases after psilocybin therapy for depression. I'll put it another way: the brain looks more globally interconnected after psilocybin therapy for depression and the magnitude of that… correlates with improvements." [39:19] Links: Carhart-Harris Lab website Dr. Carhart-Harris on X Dr. Carhart-Harris' 2025 article: "Neuroplasticity and psychedelics: A comprehensive examination of classic and non-classic compounds in pre and clinical models" Dr. Carhart-Harris' 2012 article: "Neural correlates of the psychedelic state as determined by fMRI studies with psilocybin" Dr. Carhart-Harris' 2010 article with Karl Friston: "The default-mode, ego-functio

Psychedelics are changing the way we think about healing and mental health. Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, the Ralph Metzner Distinguished Professor in Neurology and Psychiatry at UCSF and Founder of the Carhart-Harris Lab, and one of the most respected researchers in the field, shares fascinating insights from decades of groundbreaking studies—and his own personal experiences. From exploring how psilocybin and LSD interact with the brain to reshaping our understanding of emotional and spiritual growth, his work is opening up new possibilities for transformation. If you’ve ever been curious about the potential of these substances, this episode is full of eye-opening moments. Dr. Robin doesn’t just study psychedelics—he’s lived the journey. He shares stories from his early experiences that sparked his passion for this work, blending science with deeply human moments. Together, we explore how psychedelics can unlock those profound realizations that change everything and their ability to create connections that go beyond traditional spirituality. This is a conversation about both research and real life, offering a relatable glimpse into a world of possibilities. Curious but unsure where to start? Dr. Robin explains why preparation, mindset, and environment matter so much when it comes to these powerful experiences. His practical advice and thoughtful approach make this conversation perfect for anyone ready to learn more about the transformative potential of psychedelics—and maybe even see the world in a whole new way. Key Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction. [00:01:30] Psychedelics and mental health research. 00:05:20] Understanding psychedelic experiences. [00:09:00] Conscious states and psychedelics. [00:16:50] Spiritual experience vs. organized religion. [00:25:08] Science and spirituality in psychedelics. [00:31:08] Community support in psychedelic experiences. [00:39:05] Psychedelic therapy response rates. [00:42:33] The essence of mental health. [00:45:14] Addiction and its underlying pain. [00:49:02] Psychedelics and chaos in reality. [00:55:12] Set and setting study. [00:56:41] The role of therapy in microdosing. Memorable Quotes: "Better to recognize and embrace than ignore and avoid. Even if the recognition and the embracing and the confronting is very difficult and very painful, ultimately, it will foster a greater benefit from doing that work." [00:35:18] – Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris "Psychedelics are very vulnerable to that projection, both lifting it up too high in terms of hype and smashing it down too hard in terms of alarmism and scaremongering. So great scope, great depth, and why? Because I believe there's something very telling in that, that it must be hitting a common denominator, more or less hitting the bullseye of the core of mental health." [00:41:41] – Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris Connect with Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris: Website: https://www.carhartharrislab.com/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/RCarhartHarris Connect with Modern Enlightenment: Website: https://www.ceremoniacircle.org/podcast/modern-enlightenment Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceremoniacircle Facebook: https://www.faceb

[video available on spotify] i've dabbled in the world of psychedelics a little bit. i've taken mushrooms a few times, but i really don't know a lot about psychedelics. however, it's becoming an increasingly more relevant topic as it's been revealed that they can help with mental health issues and have therapeutic qualities. robin carhart-harris is a pioneer and leading researcher in neuroscience and psychopharmacology, best known for his groundbreaking work on how psychedelics affect the brain and how they can be used to treat mental health issues. in 2019, he founded the world's first center for psychedelic research at imperial college london. basically, he’s all about using psychedelics to help human suffering to improve the quality of people's lives. so today, we're going to learn a new definition of psychedelics with robin carhart-harris. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a leading researcher in psychedelic science, examines the impact of psychedelics on the brain and discusses the future of mind-altering therapies, while delving into topics such as brain connectivity, suggestibility, and harm reduction. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.mindbodyhealthpolitics.org/subscribe

Psychedelic research is gaining momentum, and Robin Carhart-Harris with his team at Imperial College, London is one of the most prolific groups pushing the science forward. In May 2021, the New England Journal of Medicine published their head to head depression study of an SSRI vs. psilocybin. In today's episode, we are joined by a pioneering neuroscientist, Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris. We dive into conversations around the effects of psychedelics on brain networks, the nuances of ego, self, and other, and exciting developments within the research. Show notes : Revealing the depths of the unconscious mind - 02:49 The default mode network and what role it plays in mental health - 11:35 What the future holds for psychedelics and psychotherapy - 18:31 Where are we in psilocybin and clinical research? - 22:41 Understanding what the psychedelic experience is - 28:37 Dissociation, presence, and how psychedelics ties in - 35:13 To learn more about Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris: https://time.com/collection/time100-next-2021/5937720/robin-carhart-harris/ https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/r.carhart-harris https://scholar.google.ca/citations?user=7_MD_w0AAAAJ&hl=en *** How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of all the episodes>in the ratings and reviews section tap stars to rate>click write a review. Want more? For show notes and more information, visit https://psychiatryinstitute.com/podcast/ Sign up for our newsletter and to receive ongoing information for optimal mental health: email.psychiatryinstitute.com If you're a provider visit https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ If you're interested in patient care visit: www.psychiatrycenters.com For provider education reach out to: info@psychiatryinstitute.com For patient care reach out to: info@psychiatrycenters.com

Robin Heads the Psychedelic Research Group within the Centre for Psychiatry at Imperial College London, where he has designed several functional brain imaging studies with psilocybin, LSD, MDMA and DMT, plus a clinical trial of psilocybin for treatment resistant depression. He has over 50 published papers in peer-reviewed scientific journals; two of which were ranked in the top 100 most impactful academic articles of 2016. Robin’s research has featured in major national and international media and he has given a popular TEDx talk. Does MDMA impact sleep? What does the brain look like under the influence of LSD? How do psychedelics change the quality of brain activity? Can psilocybin be used to treat depression? Psilocybin vs Escitalopram for Major Depressive Disorder Stanislav Grof LSD Psychotherapy Robin’s first paper – Waves of the Unconscious Amanda Feilding Robin’s PhD Drugs live – Channel 4 Psilocybin LSD MDMA DMT Psychedelic resting states The entropic brain Homological scaffolds of brain functional networks The Stoned Ape theory DMT Neural Correlates of the DMT experience Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Depression Serotonin and brain function: a tale of two receptors ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome to PsychEd, the psychiatry podcast for medical learners, by medical learners. In this episode, we begin to explore the neurobiology of the serotonin system — along with key pharmacological agents (SSRIs and classical psychedelics) that act on this system — with guest expert Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a neuroscientist and head of the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London . Our discussion is more theoretical than directly clinically relevant, striving to provide a mechanistic understanding of how serotonin functions within the brain and how serotonin-modulating drugs influence this system. The episode was inspired by a review published by our guest expert and Dr. David Nutt called “ Serotonin and brain function: a tale of two receptors ” (cited below). If you are interested in the topic, you might consider reading this review in full! Please note that the figures referenced during this episode can be accessed at https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/figure/10.1177/0269881117725915 . The learning objectives for this episode are as follows: By the end of this episode, you should be able to… Understand the general anatomy and function of the serotonin system, with a focus on the purported activity of the more common serotonin receptors and transporters. Describe the effects of serotonin reuptake inhibitors and how they lead to symptom improvement in mood and anxiety disorders, in addition to the mechanism of action of other serotonergic medications. Consider the two-pronged serotonin system conceptualized by Dr. Carhart-Harris, and understand how serotonergic agents (including SSRIs and classic psychedelics) and the concepts of active and passive coping fit within this theory. Guest: Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a neuroscientist and head of the Centre for Psychedelic Research at Imperial College London . Produced and hosted by: Dr. Chase Thompson (PGY3), Dr. Lucy Chen (Psychiatrist), Dr. Nikhita Singhal (PGY2) Audio editing by: Dr. Chase Thompson Infographic by: Dr Chase Thompson, Dr Nikhita Singhal Interview Content: 00:18 - Introductions 3:00 - Learning objectives 4:10 - Int

How might substances like LSD, psilocybins, and other hallucinogens provide relief to people suffering from conditions such as depression, addiction, and anorexia? Robin Carhart-Harris is a neuroscientist and head of the Imperial Centre for Psychedelic Research, which builds on over a decade of pioneering work including a clinical trial that has kickstarted global efforts to develop psilocybin therapy into a licensed treatment for depression. On June 29, 2020, Dr. Carhart-Harris spoke with Dr. Mellody Hayes, an anesthesiologist and founder of a psychedelic wellness clinic, by videoconference during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This week Matilda talks psychedelics with Dr Robin Carhart-Harris, the first scientist to do a brain-imaging study with LSD! He shares what it's revealed about the ego vs the unconscious mind, as well as his exciting new research into how magic mushrooms might be an effective treatment for depression. Come and take a trip with us, and discover the brain on LSD. Mixtape: 1. Scattered Black and White by Elbow 2. Storm 3000 by Leftfield 3. Water From A Vine Leaf by William Orbit (Xylem Flow Mix) 4. Dirty Epic by Underworld 5. Ceremony by New Order 6. One Love by Prodigy #science #mixtape #lsd #brain #drugs #consciousness #depression #magicmushrooms #psilocybin #psychedelics