MDMA Assisted Therapy with Michael Mithoefer

The podcast features an interview with Dr. Michael Mithaufer, Senior Medical Director at MAPS, discussing the journey and current status of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy research. Mithaufer shares his initial interest in non-ordinary states of consciousness, inspired by Stan Grof's work, which led him to psychiatry and eventually to researching MDMA as a therapeutic tool. He highlights the challenges of non-profit research, the importance of cultural diversity in trials, and the need for therapist training to meet potential demand. Mithaufer expresses hope that MDMA, alongside other psychedelics, can reconnect psychotherapy and psychiatry, fostering a model where these medicines are accessible for both medical treatment and personal growth, contingent on responsible usage and appropriate settings.