In this Psychedelic Podcast episode, co-host Joseph Anew speaks with entrepreneur and Phoenix Project founder Dr. Melissa Barker about transcending trauma with psychedelics.
Joseph and Dr. Barker explore questions like, Why do traditional therapies fall short of repairing deep wounds? What can psychedelics do for trauma that other modalities can’t? How can survivors choose between ketamine, MDMA, psilocybin, and other psychedelic medicines? And what role do microdosing and community play in long-term healing?
This conversation unveils the trauma-healing trajectory as survivors overcome suffering, embrace their whole selves, and emerge as autonomous leaders.
Dr. Melissa Barker, Ed.D.:
Dr. Melissa Barker, EdD is an entrepreneur, activist, and emerging voice in the growing psychedelics movement. She is also the founder of The Phoenix Project, a community-led mental health tech platform created by trauma survivors for trauma survivors.
Dr. Barker’s personal journey healing from sexual violence led her to psychedelics, including ketamine, MDMA/MDA, psilocybin, and LSD. She’s currently utilizing her experiences to build Phoenix, the first AI companion designed specifically for trauma recovery and psychedelic integration.
Highlights:
Dr. Barker’s personal trauma history and its impact on her mental health.
How psychedelics accelerated Dr. Barker’s healing journey.
Dr. Barker’s transformative experiences with ketamine, psilocybin, MDMA, and MDA.
Integrating powerful psychedelic experiences into daily life.
Addressing issues of psychedelic access, safety, and reciprocity.
Exploring The Phoenix Project & the importance of community healing.
Dr. Barker’s seven stages of trauma recovery.
How The Phoenix Project got its name, and what’s to come in version 2.0.
Kundalini yoga’s role in Dr. Barker’s and Joseph’s healing journeys.
Dr. Barker’s message of hope to trauma survivors.
How to connect with Dr. Barker.
Key Links:
The Phoenix Project: https://www.iamphoenixproject.com/
The Phoenix Project on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam_phoenix_project/?hl=en
Dr. Barker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissabarker/?hl=en
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