S04E103 - Ashley Carmen - Amplify Community & Wisdom

In this episode of The Mindfulness Experience Podcast, host Keith Fiveson speaks with Ashley Carmen, LMFT, a psychotherapist and founder of the Psychedelic Guide Network, formerly the Altered Psychedelic Practitioners APP Association. Ashley's unique approach to psychotherapy addresses the mind, body, emotions, energetic body, and spirit. She also forms part of the emerging alternative paradigm shift in the medicine space, exploring new avenues of healing, including the use of psychedelic medicine and online education. Ashley shares her insights and experiences with Keith in an enlightening conversation that intrigues you. Here are some of the highlights from their discussion: - Ashley's inspiration for pursuing a career in clinical psychology came from her struggles with anxiety and depression, which she overcame with the help of therapy and mindfulness practices. Her interest in psychedelic medicine emerged through her work with terminally ill patients and witnessing the profound healing that could occur. - Ashley created the Psychedelic Guide Network, formerly the Altered Psychedelic Practitioners APP Association to support people working in the medicine space and provide a platform for education and community building. This includes offering resources to practitioners, advocacy work, and information on policy changes. - Ashley's approach to psychotherapy is unique in that she incorporates various modalities, such as mindfulness, somatic therapy, and spiritual practices, to address the whole person. This sets her apart from others who may focus on one aspect. She also practices psychedelic-assisted therapy if the patient is open to it. - From her experience working in juvenile hall and corporate medical, Ashley learned about the systemic issues and struggles people face in accessing mental health care. This led her to create a business model that offers alternative methods of therapy that can reach more people in need of treatment. - Ashley recommends various mindfulness practices to navigate the new paradigm shift in health and wellness, such as cultivating meditation, practicing self-care, and connecting with nature. - Ashley's personal history has informed her work as a psychotherapist, as she incorporates her own experiences with healing into her practice. She empathizes with her clients and creates a safe and non-judgmental space for them to share and work through their issues. - Ashley believes in the power of holistic healing and the use of various modalities, including but not limited to medicine. She emphasizes the importance of empowerment and self-care as ways to take control of one's health. - As the field of psychedelics continues to expand and policies change, Ashley envisions the future of mental health and wellness to include a more integrative and holistic approach, including the use of psychedelics safely and effectively. - For those interested in pursuing a career in psychology or medicine, Ashley recommends focusing on empathy, curiosity, and continuous learning. She also emphasizes the importance of self-care and supportive communities. It's clear from Ashley's passion and dedication that she is revolutionizing the field of psychotherapy and alternative healing. To learn more about her work, visit her website at alteredtherapy.org or follow her on social media. Thanks for tuning in to The Mindfulness Experience Podcast, and until next time, take care! Contact: Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-carmen-app/