All Episodes

August 26, 2025 18 mins

In this episode of Curing with Sound, we explore how focused ultrasound is being studied as a treatment for depression and anxiety, told through the perspectives of both a leading researcher and a veteran who experienced it firsthand. Noah Philip, MD, is a professor of psychiatry and human behavior at Brown University's Alpert Medical School and a leading expert on focused ultrasound neuromodulation for psychiatric conditions. He discusses his research using low-intensity focused ultrasound to modulate the amygdala for the treatment of depression and anxiety in veterans.

Joining him is Nick Marinelli, an Iraq War veteran and Black Hawk mechanic who participated in Dr. Philip’s revolutionary clinical trial after struggling with depression and anxiety for over a decade following his deployment. Nick shares his experience receiving focused ultrasound treatments and the immediate improvements he noticed in his daily mood and his ability to be present with his family, particularly during meaningful moments like his daughter's kindergarten graduation.

Discussion highlights:

  • Revolutionary Mental Health Technology: Discover how focused ultrasound neuromodulation offers millimeter-scale precision to target deep brain structures like the amygdala. This noninvasive alternative to traditional psychiatric treatments has the potential to transform mental healthcare for treatment-resistant conditions.
  • From Research to Real-World Impact: Hear about Dr. Philip's advocacy efforts, including his 2024 congressional briefing to expand access to focused ultrasound treatments, and the upcoming four-year VA-funded trial aimed at optimizing dosing strategies for clinical implementation across underserved communities.

All patient stories featured on the Curing with Sound podcast are personal accounts of an individual’s experience with focused ultrasound treatment. Please be aware that each patient’s situation is unique, and outcomes may vary. The information provided in this story should not be considered as medical advice or a guarantee of specific results. It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your condition and determine the best treatment options for you. The Focused Ultrasound Foundation does not endorse any specific treatment or medical procedure and encourages all patients to seek professional medical guidance tailored to their individual needs.

EPISODE TRANSCRIPT ---------------------------- QUESTIONS? Email podcast@fusfoundation.org if you have a question or comment about the show, or if you would you like to connect about future guest appearances. 

Email info@fusfoundation.org if you have questions about focused ultrasound or the Foundation. 

FUSF SOCIAL MEDIA

FUSF WEBSITE https://www.fusfoundation.org SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/newsletter-signup/ READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTER https://www.fusfoundation.org/the-foundation/news-media/newsletter/ DOWNLOAD "THE TUMOR" BY JOHN GRISHAM (FREE E-BOOK) https://www.fusfoundation.org/read-the-tumor-by-john-grisham/

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Crime Junkie

Crime Junkie

Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.