In this episode of Tech Minds Unwind, we dive deep into the world of psychedelic therapy, mental health, and the unique challenges faced by those in the tech industry. Our guest, Genesee Herzberg, a clinical psychologist and founder of Sage Integrative Health, shares her journey into psychedelic therapy, the transformative power of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and her insights on burnout, isolation, and mental health in the tech world.
Genesee Herzberg is a clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in mental health. Her journey into psychedelic therapy began in her early 20s when she turned to psilocybin mushrooms to cope with the loss of a close friend. This experience not only helped her heal but also inspired her to pursue a career in mental health, focusing on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics.
Genesee is the founder of Sage Integrative Health, a clinic in Berkeley, California, that offers ketamine-assisted therapy and integrative health practices. She is also a co-founder of the nonprofit Alchemy Community Therapy Center, which provides affordable ketamine-assisted therapy. Additionally, Genesee has worked with MAPS (Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD and recently co-edited the book Integral Psychedelic Therapy.
The psychedelic field is experiencing a renaissance, with substances like MDMA and psilocybin gaining recognition for their potential to treat mental health conditions. Genesee reflects on the evolution of this movement, from its counterculture roots to its current mainstream acceptance. While the increased funding and research are exciting, she also cautions against the commercialization of psychedelics, emphasizing the importance of preserving the integrity and safety of these therapies.
At Sage Integrative Health, Genesee and her team specialize in ketamine-assisted therapy. Ketamine, often referred to as a "dissociative psychedelic," can produce profound experiences at higher doses, including ego dissolution and mystical states. At lower doses, it can help individuals reconnect with their emotions and process trauma in a safe, therapeutic setting.
Genesee explains that ketamine increases neuroplasticity, allowing new neural pathways to form. This makes it particularly effective for conditions like treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, she stresses the importance of proper preparation, a safe setting, and skilled guidance to ensure a positive and healing experience.
As a psychologist based in the Bay Area, Genesee has worked with many individuals in the tech industry. She observes that tech workers often face high levels of burnout, isolation, and a disconnection from their emotions and bodies. The relentless pace of the industry, combined with the cognitive demands of the work, can leave individuals feeling exhausted, unfulfilled, and disconnected from their sense of purpose.
Genesee emphasizes the importance of embodiment practices, such as yoga and mindfulness, to help individuals reconnect with their bodies and emotions. She also highlights the role of internal family systems (IFS) therapy, a model that helps individuals understand and integrate different parts of themselves, in fostering self-awareness and healing.
For many in the tech industry, the search for purpose and meaning is a central struggle. Genesee shares how psychedelic therapy, particularly ketamine-assisted therapy, can help individuals reconnect with their inner selves and rediscover their passions. Some clients find that slowing down and creating more balance in their lives is enough to reignite their passion for their work. Others discover new interests and career paths that align more closely with their values and desires.
Genesee acknowledges the stigma surrounding mental health in the tech industry and society at large. She encourages individuals to seek help and reminds listeners that struggling with mental health is a natural response to the pressures of modern life. Whether it's burnout, anxiety, or depression, there is no shame in seeking support. Therapy, mindfulness practices, and psychedelic-assisted therapy are all valuable tools for healing and growth.
Genesee's own experience with burnout serves as a powerful reminder that even mental health professionals are not immune to the challenges of modern life. After years of overworking, she was diagnosed with adrenal fatigue and had to slow down to recover. Her journey underscores the importance of self-care, balance, and seeking help when needed.
Genesee Herzberg's work is a testament to the transformative power of psychedelic therapy and the importance of addressing mental health in the tech industry. By fostering connection, play, and self-awareness, we can create a more compassionate and balanced world—one where mental health is prioritized, and healing is accessible to all.
