How Psychedelics Affect the Brain: Key Findings & Debates

Speakers: Dr. Manesh Girn
CE credits offered: 1
Program Level: Intermediate

Over the past decade, the study of how psychedelics affect the brain has experienced an explosion of scientific interest. From studying brain cells in vitro, to slicing and analyzing rodent brains, to applying advanced neuroimaging techniques to observe the human brain during psychedelic experiences, our understanding of this fascinating topic is rapidly growing. The findings from these studies are crucial for understanding how psychedelics can promote lasting therapeutic benefits, and for optimizing approaches to psychotherapy and integration. In this talk, I will provide an accessible yet comprehensive overview of the current state of our understanding of how psychedelics affect the brain, highlighting key discoveries and ongoing debates that are relevant for practitioners, laypeople, and policy makers.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees will be able to describe the key brain systems affected by psychedelics, including serotonin receptor activity and the modulation of brain network
Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of neuroplasticity and its potential role in psychedelic therapy and integration
Attendees will be able to critically discuss current controversies in psychedelic neuroscience, such as the nature of therapeutic mechanisms (e.g., neuroplasticity vs. subjective experience) and the limitations of current research methodologies.
Attendees will learn how neuroscience findings can be applied to optimize therapeutic practices, including preparation, psychedelic experiences, and integration in clinical settings

About Dr. Manesh Girn

Manesh Girn is a postdoctoral neuroscientist specializing in psychedelic drugs at the University of California, San Francisco. Working closely with psychedelic research pioneer Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, he conducts research on the neural mechanisms underlying the psychedelic experience and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. He has been lead or co-author of over 20 peer-reviewed publications to date on topics including psychedelics, the default mode network, abstract cognitive processes, and brain network organization. Manesh also runs a popular digital platform on Instagram and YouTube called "The Psychedelic Scientist”, where he disseminates the latest findings and developments in psychedelic science in a layperson friendly manner. https://www.instagram.com/thepsychedelicscientist/