The Future of Mental Health Sounds Nothing Like You’d Expect

In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro interviews Robin Arnott, CEO & co-founder of SoundSelf, an immersive technology designed to facilitate altered states of awareness for mental health improvement. They discuss the mechanics of SoundSelf, its therapeutic applications, and Robin's journey from game design to creating a tool for healing. The conversation delves into the importance of surrender in the healing process, the effectiveness of SoundSelf for various mental health conditions, and the balance between doing and being in maximizing the human experience. Robin emphasizes the significance of breath and relaxation in healing, offering insights into how technology can support mental health without the need for substances.

Robin's LinkedIn: 

www.soundself.com

Takeaways:

• SoundSelf uses immersive technology to facilitate altered states of awareness.
• Vocalizing can help regulate the nervous system and promote relaxation.
• The experience can lead to profound mental health benefits in a short time.
• Surrendering is a crucial skill for healing and personal growth.
• SoundSelf is effective for various mental health conditions, including PTSD and anxiety.
• The technology is designed to be self-paced but benefits from a therapeutic context.
• Breathwork is essential for mental health and healing.
• Maximizing the human experience involves learning to do less and find stillness.
• Robin's journey reflects a shift from fear-based experiences to healing-focused technology.
• The importance of family as a foundation for personal and professional success.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to SoundSelf and Immersive Technology
• 03:59 Robin Arnott's Journey from Game Design to Mental Health
• 08:49 The Mechanism of SoundSelf and Its Therapeutic Applications
• 15:11 Target Populations and Effectiveness of SoundSelf
• 19:55 The Future of SoundSelf and Accessibility in Mental Health
• 24:15 Understanding Efficacy in Therapeutic Settings
• 25:58 Session Frequency and Protocols for Optimal Outcomes
• 28:01 The Role of Soundself in Trauma Recovery
• 30:12 The Importance of Stillness in Healing
• 37:27 Maximizing the Human Experience Through Release
• 41:35 Personal Growth and Family as a Foundation