The Higher Practice Podcast for Optimal Mental Health

Keith Kurlander
  • 4.6 (136)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
The Higher Practice Podcast for Optimal Mental Health

I'm Keith Kurlander, with Dr. Will Van Derveer, Co-Founders of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and Integrative Psychiatry Centers, and this is the podcast where we explore what it takes to achieve optimal mental health. If you want to learn about cutting-edge psychology that help people reach their highest potential then this is the show for you! Have a question, please email us at info@psychiatryinstitute.com

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Latest Advances in Women's Health - Dr. Sara (Gottfried) Szal

    Despite significant advancements in healthcare, gaps in women's health continue to leave many underserved, as discussed by Dr. Will Van Derveer and Dr. Sara Gottfried Szal in their exploration of the evolving field of female care. Dr. Szal reflects on her medical journey, highlighting the shift from physician-centered models to personalized, patient-focused approaches and the urgent need to address biases and systemic barriers in women's healthcare. They emphasize the importance of equipping practitioners to address unique health challenges—such as stress, hormones, cardiometabolic health, and lifestyle changes. This discussion underscores the potential to transform medicine, fostering proactive and respectful care that empowers women across all life stages. Show notes: ●        Midwifery model advocates collaborative, patient-centered women's healthcare – 03:04 ●        Hormonal complexity reveals broader health treatment gaps - 07:52 ●        Advancing women's health: Understanding stress, treatment, longevity - 12:17 ●        Women's cardiovascular risks, disparities, and urgent awareness needed - 17:29   How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    22 min

  2. JAN 3

    Resolution Revolution: Why New Year's Resolutions Fail and How to Make Them Stick – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    This episode explores the complexities of New Year’s resolutions and effective goal-setting strategies, emphasizing the pitfalls of impulsive resolutions and advocating for a structured visioning process. We discuss setting goals across key life areas—career, family, health, and personal pursuits—using tools like vision boards, Google Drive, and Trello to track progress and achieve realistic success rates of 80-90%. Keith shares his approach of breaking annual goals into quarterly sub-goals, highlighting the importance of self-reflection to ensure goals align with personal values rather than societal pressures. We also critique the cultural tendency to set resolutions without thoughtful planning, address challenges like saving money, and stress the balance between disciplined goal-setting and embracing unstructured, spontaneous moments. Show notes: ●        80% of New Year's resolutions fail quickly - 03:00 ●        Align habits with values for longer-lasting change – 05:57 ●        Setting realistic goals is key – 11:57 ●        Quarterly sub-goal reviews can be great or feel rigid – 26:55 ●        Automation reduces error, ensuring higher degrees of success – 32:53 ●        Mindful visioning balances material pursuits – 41:15 How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    45 min

  3. 12/23/2024

    Turning Insights Into Action In Psychedelic Therapy – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    Transformation happens when moments of clarity are translated into lasting change, but this process is rarely simple. In this episode, we highlight the challenges of psychedelic integration, focusing on the difficulty of turning powerful insights into actual behavioral shifts. Drawing from neuroscience and psychology, we explore the hard work required for real change, including the pitfalls of repetitive sessions and the struggle to remain committed and consistent. Our discussion emphasizes the importance of values-based change, understanding deeper motivations, and using tools like journaling, parts work, accountability partnerships, and self-awareness practices. Recognizing the lack of societal support for genuine transformation, we encourage patience, self-compassion, and strategies for sustaining growth long after the dosing session ends. Show notes: ●        Lasting Behavioral Change ●        Psychedelic Insights Need Effort to Integrate ●        Deeply Ingrained Habits Stem From Survival Response ●        Meaningful Change Requires Deep Exploration  How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    35 min

  4. 12/16/2024

    Mind Under Pressure: How to Recognize Stress and Reset Your Nervous System – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    What if we could literally change our lives by confronting our own stress responses? In this episode, we explore the profound impact of stress on mental health, examining its physiological and psychological aspects while offering insights for understanding and managing it. We introduce the concept of “eustress” versus “distress,” explaining how different types of stress can drive growth or lead to burnout, and emphasize how our perceptions and mindset shape our experiences. Taking a systemic approach, we consider societal challenges like economic uncertainty, global conflicts, and social isolation as contributors to stress. Our goal is to help you build awareness and adopt practical coping strategies, from mindfulness practices and exercise to sleep hygiene, cold plunges, and sauna therapy. We also highlight the importance of relational health, co-regulation, meaningful work, and community engagement as we unpack the art of self-care in today’s complex world. Show notes: ●        Stress Within the Widening Socioeconomic Gap ●        Uncertainty, Panic, and Loss of Control ●        Eustress Energizes, Distress Damages ●        Recognizing Stress Signs ●        Mindfulness and Stress Regulation How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    41 min

  5. 12/09/2024

    Mindful Bites: How What You Eat Impacts How You Feel – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    The findings are clear: you are what you eat! In this episode, we dive into the fascinating connection between food and mood, exploring how your diet impacts your body, brain, and overall wellbeing. From debunking the outdated food pyramid to uncovering the role of macronutrients, hydration, and fiber, we break down the science of nutrition and metabolism. We also tackle pressing health concerns like prediabetes, diabetes, and inflammation, highlighting their association with mental health challenges. Packed with actionable advice—like how to reduce processed carbs, balance blood sugar, and experiment with personalized dietary approaches—this conversation is all about helping you create a sustainable plan for better mental clarity, emotional stability, and vitality. Whether you're looking to optimize your health or curious about how your diet shapes your mental state, this episode is full of tools and insights to inspire change. Show notes: ●        Obesity and Body Image ●        Excess Carbs Convert to Fat, Impacting Health ●        Continual Glucose Monitoring ●        Fat is Important ●        Ketogenic Diets ●        Metabolic Flexibility: Glucose vs. Fat How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    55 min

  6. 12/02/2024

    Setting Big Goals: What’s in the Way and How to Get on the Way – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    Ever wonder why some goals stay dreams while others become reality? In this episode, we explore the difference between fantasy and vision, sharing how to transform dreams into actionable steps that inspire clarity and motivation. We dive into common fears, like the worry of failure or judgment, and offer tips for breaking old habits and creating meaningful change. Emphasizing the importance of aligning goals with values, we highlight the role of systems, routines, and accountability in staying consistent. Most of all, we encourage listeners to embrace the journey, knowing it leads to a life of purpose and growth. Show notes: ●        The Difference Between Fantasy and Vision ●        Setting and Structuring Annual Goals ●        Balancing Structure and Flexibility ●        Forced Accelerated Savings ●        Goals and Behavior Alignment How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    42 min

  7. 11/25/2024

    Down the Rabbit Hole: The Mystical Side of Psychedelics – Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    In this episode, we explore the profound and often enigmatic nature of mystical experiences, particularly those induced by psychedelics. Through the lens of Western psychology and shamanic traditions, we examine encounters with mysterious entities, synchronicities, and the transformative insights these states can offer. We also address the challenges that arise, including spiritual emergencies and ego dissolution, discussing how these intense moments can lead to growth, humility, and deeper self-understanding. With a balanced perspective, we emphasize the importance of support, integration, and hope, offering a grounded approach to navigating the risks and opportunities of these powerful experiences. Show notes:  ·         Understanding Mystical Experiences ·         LSD Experiences ·         Struggles with Nightmares and Kundalini Energy ·         Spiritual Emergencies and Resilience ·         Ego Fragmentation ·         Science, Mysticism, and Reality ·         Seeking Support Around Mystical Experiences How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    53 min

  8. 11/18/2024

    Decoding the Mind: The Evolution of Mental Health Diagnosis and Treatment - Keith Kurlander & Dr. Will Van Derveer

    What if our current understanding of mental health is merely a brief moment in the vast history of human knowledge? In this episode, we explore how the introduction of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has dramatically changed the way we talk about and understand mental health. We dive into both the benefits and drawbacks of our current diagnostic system, and we challenge the false divide between "mentally ill" and "mentally well.” We unpack our culture’s reliance on prescription medication without providing the education or support needed to resolve underlying issues. Ultimately, our discussion underscores the need for empathy and a nuanced understanding of mental health, acknowledging that everyone experiences fluctuating mental states and that a growth mindset is key to wellness. Show notes: ●      Challenges in Primary Care Mental Health Management ●      Evolution and Implications of Psychiatric Diagnoses ●      The Role of Medications in Mental Health Treatment ●      Cultural Influences on Mental Health Perceptions ●      The Importance of a Growth-Oriented Mindset ●      Labels, Stigma, and Empathy in Mental Health ●      Advanced Treatments and Psychedelic Therapy ●      Societal Impacts How you can help others in a big way... If you enjoy the Higher Practice Podcast, please leave a quick review on the Apple Podcast app. It makes a big difference in getting the word out to other people who will benefit from this podcast. Simply, click on the show on your podcast app>scroll down to the bottom of the episodes>click the ratings and reviews section>tap stars to rate>click write a review. To learn more, visit: https://psychiatryinstitute.com/ Interested in providing psychedelic therapy? Download our free ebook, Getting Started With Psychedelic Therapy: https://bit.ly/3NjBW9k Struggle with mental health? Download our free guide, 10 Must Know Supplements For Optimal Mental Health: https://bit.ly/4feDMob.  And when you download our free guide, you’ll also get our bi-weekly newsletter Mind Matters, where we share great tips on how to optimize your mental health.

    35 min
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4.6
out of 5
136 Ratings

About

I'm Keith Kurlander, with Dr. Will Van Derveer, Co-Founders of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute and Integrative Psychiatry Centers, and this is the podcast where we explore what it takes to achieve optimal mental health. If you want to learn about cutting-edge psychology that help people reach their highest potential then this is the show for you! Have a question, please email us at info@psychiatryinstitute.com

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