In this episode, Dr. John sits down with marriage and family therapist Jarom Ball to explore the profound ways trauma shapes our emotional and physiological responses. Jarom discusses how early experiences of rejection and unworthiness can create deeply ingrained automatic reactions, impacting relationships and self-perception. He explains how traditional therapy methods, such as EMDR, can help regulate these responses but may not fully address all aspects of trauma. Psychedelics like ketamine and psilocybin, by promoting neuroplasticity through BDNF and mTOR activation, provide a unique window for transformation, especially when combined with intentional therapeutic integration.
Jarom delves into different therapeutic approaches, highlighting Internal Family Systems, which engages the protective parts of the psyche, versus EMDR, which primarily bypasses them. He emphasizes that growth doesn’t always require confronting every traumatic memory at once; even incremental progress in emotional regulation and coping strategies can significantly enhance life quality. Jarom notes that unresolved trauma often manifests as autonomic dysregulation, where the body overreacts to triggers. Integrating therapy with psychedelic-assisted experiences, when accessible, can help rewire these patterns and create lasting change.
The conversation also examines the impact of modern life and environmental factors on mental well-being. Dr. John and Jarom discuss how constant exposure to digital media and global stressors overwhelms our nervous systems, contrasting this with the benefits of reconnecting with nature, foraging, and direct contact with the earth. Such practices enhance intuition, emotional sensitivity, and overall well-being, offering a grounding balance to the high-tech, high-stress modern world. The episode ultimately emphasizes a holistic approach to healing, combining trauma-informed therapy, neuroplasticity through psychedelics, and reconnection with nature to cultivate resilience, growth, and human flourishing.
Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
