Episodes

  • Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Exploring Addiction and Mental Health Across Canada

    Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Exploring Addiction and Mental Health Across Canada
    Feb 2 2025
    Paul Perrier's Journey: Biking Across Canada to Raise Awareness

    The Inspiration Behind the Ride

    Have you ever felt the urge to break free and do something extraordinary? Paul Perrier, the author of "Cracked Wide Open," decided to pursue such a dream.

    In an incredible act of courage and commitment, Paul embarked on a cross-Canada bike tour to promote his book and raise mental health awareness. Leaving Toronto on July 1 and covering an astounding 5500 kilometers, his route traversed from Saint John's in the east to Vancouver and back to Toronto.

    Facing Challenges Head-On

    Cycling such a vast distance posed numerous, sometimes unexpected, challenges. Paul admitted, "I naively kinda went out there going out how hard could this be," but soon realized the reality was quite different.

    Despite these difficulties, he aimed to explore the state of Canada post-COVID. Along the way, he observed severe addiction and homelessness issues. Paul felt that these social problems had worsened compared to his earlier film on drug addiction.

    Meeting People and Hearing Stories

    Throughout his journey, Paul encountered a diverse range of individuals. Many came forward to share their experiences, from former addicts to those currently struggling with homelessness.
    These interactions were often spontaneous and unplanned. The conversations added a profound depth to his ride, shedding light on the human stories behind addiction and homelessness.

    Documenting the Pilgrimage

    Paul's journey was more than just a bike ride; it was meticulously documented. Using only his iPhone and a 360-degree camera, he captured remarkable footage of the entire trip.
    This visual diary is now being edited into a compelling film. The movie will interweave stunning Canadian landscapes with the harsh realities of addiction, offering a unique and immersive perspective.

    The Spiritual and Personal Impact

    For Paul, this journey was a form of pilgrimage, deeply personal and spiritual. He confessed, "I needed to get out of Toronto," highlighting the therapeutic impact of his expedition.
    Cycling across Canada's vast, breathtaking landscapes offered him a sense of tranquility and connectedness. It provided an opportunity to explore both himself and larger societal issues more profoundly.

    Paul Perrier's journey was not just a physical endeavor but an eye-opening experience. By facing challenges head-on, meeting diverse individuals, and documenting his trip, Paul created a narrative that is both compelling and essential. In your own life, how will you step out of your comfort zone and make an impact?

    Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Making a Home Out of You: Ginelle Testa on Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Self

    Making a Home Out of You: Ginelle Testa on Overcoming Addiction and Embracing Self
    Sep 30 2024
    In this episode, host Dr. Mark Leeds interviews Ginelle Testa, author of the upcoming memoir "Make a Home Out of You."

    Ginelle Testa is a writer and content marketer based in Boston, MA. She holds a master's degree in digital marketing and design from Brandeis University. Testa has overcome addiction, eating disorders, and relationship issues, using her experiences to craft a powerful memoir. Her work has been featured in various publications, and she is passionate about helping others through sharing her story.

    This insightful conversation explores Testa's journey through addiction, recovery, and self-discovery. Testa discusses her upcoming memoir, which details her struggles with substance abuse, disordered eating, and unhealthy relationships. She shares her experiences with various recovery programs, including Alcoholics Anonymous and Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous, and how these have shaped her healing process.

    The discussion touches on important topics such as codependency, the challenges of writing about personal experiences, and the process of publishing a memoir. Testa provides valuable insights into her writing process, including her participation in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) as a catalyst for her book.

    Dr. Leeds and Testa also delve into broader topics related to addiction and recovery, including the use of medication-assisted treatments, the role of 12-step programs, and the complexities of eating disorders. They explore the concept of "making a home in oneself" as a crucial aspect of recovery and personal growth.

    The episode offers listeners a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction and finding self-acceptance. Testa's story provides hope and inspiration for those struggling with similar issues, while offering valuable perspectives on the recovery process.

    Please visit our websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com
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    33 mins
  • Dr. Andrew Hill on Innovative Neurofeedback Techniques to Heal the Brain

    Dr. Andrew Hill on Innovative Neurofeedback Techniques to Heal the Brain
    Sep 4 2024
    Dr. Andrew Hill is the founder of Peak Brain Institute and a leading neurofeedback practitioner and biohacking coach for clients worldwide. He has lectured on psychology, neuroscience, and gerontology at UCLA’s Department of Psychology where he received a PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience. At Peak Brain, Dr. Hill provides individualized training programs to help you optimize your brain across goals of stress, sleep, attention, brain fog, creativity, and athletic performance. He is the host of the Head First podcast and continues to do research on attention and cognitive performance. Learn more about Dr. Hill's work here: https://peakbraininstitute.com/

    Instagram: @andrewhillphd @peakbrainLA

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/DrHill/

    Websites: https://www.peakbraininstitute.com, https://www.andrewhillphd.com

    The journey through addiction, dependence, and recovery is an intricate process, often paved with numerous hurdles and requiring a multifaceted approach for successful reintegration. Benzodiazepine dependence, in particular, presents a unique set of challenges. Many individuals dependent on these medications may not classify themselves as addicted, yet they bear the brunt of long-term protracted withdrawal. This withdrawal is characterized by symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and sleep disruptions. Reliance on neurofeedback has shown great promise in ameliorating these distressing symptoms, providing a beacon of hope and recovery.

    Neurofeedback operates by training the brain in real-time to cultivate desired brainwave patterns, thus aiding in the regulation of emotional and physiological states. The process capitalizes on modern, more affordable consumer-driven technology, allowing individuals to engage in this intervention from the comfort of their homes. This accessibility is crucial, especially for those grappling with the debilitating effects of withdrawal from high doses of benzodiazepines, which can impair learning and reduce the effectiveness of neurofeedback. By integrating regular neurofeedback sessions—encouraged at around four times a week—clients can start to perceive noticeable improvements in anxiety management, executive function, and sleep quality.

    The technique has shown encouraging outcomes beyond just benzodiazepines. Users facing issues with stimulants and cannabis can also benefit from neurofeedback, as it aids in wiping away acquired tolerance and promotes better substance use regulation. For individuals dealing with impulsivity, inattentiveness, and anxiety, this brain training can lead to reduced drug abuse and enhanced control over behaviors. Through consistent application, neurofeedback can erase acquired problems caused by substance abuse, trauma, or sleep issues, demonstrating the brain's remarkable adaptability and potential for rapid alleviation of difficulties.

    In conjunction with neurofeedback, interventions like ketamine therapy, psilocybin, and EMDR are also making waves in the therapeutic landscape. These methods emphasize the significance of the set and setting, support structures, after-effects, and integration steps. Ensuring these interventions occur within a clinical setting is paramount to maximizing their benefits while mitigating risks. Neurofeedback, when used synergistically with these therapies, can further enhance brain plasticity, although it is crucial to understand that the brain's inherent plasticity is a continuous process and should not solely rely on external solutions.

    The scientific advancements in understanding brain function and the subsequent development of neurofeedback techniques have revolutionized how we address addiction and brain-related conditions. From training specific brainwave patterns to controlling craving behaviors, neurofeedback provides a structured, graded approach to brain health. Techniques like SMR training and alpha-theta training focus on improving executive function, emotional regulation, and sleep architecture, proving particularly beneficial for individuals battling alcohol addiction and other substance use disorders.

    However, it is essential to remain cautious of certain conventional methods such as binaural beats and visual entrainment devices, which studies have shown to be largely ineffective. Instead, avenues like biofeedback for heart rate variability and vagus nerve training offer more grounded and beneficial techniques, underscoring the importance of validated, evidence-based approaches.

    For more comprehensive insights into addiction, dependence, recovery, and cutting-edge therapeutic interventions, we invite readers to visit the following websites: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com. These resources offer valuable information and guidance on navigating the complexities of substance dependency and mental health.
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    53 mins
  • Nicole Lamberson on Benzo Tapers, Dependence Vs Addiction, Physician Desensitization

    Nicole Lamberson on Benzo Tapers, Dependence Vs Addiction, Physician Desensitization
    Aug 8 2024
    Nicole Lamberson is a recognized advocate for safer drug dependence treatment. As a survivor of dangerous detox practices, she co-founded the Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) to educate on the adverse effects of benzodiazepines. Her efforts emphasize the critical distinction between physical dependence and addiction. Nicole collaborates with the American Society of Addiction Medicine to shape deprescribing guidelines, ensuring compassionate and informed patient care.

    In this episode, Nicole Lamberson of the BIC and Dr. Leeds explore the harrowing realities of addiction treatment and drug dependency, and the dangers of going to detox or rehab with a benzodiazepine dependency.

    They share personal insights and expert knowledge on the need for a reformed approach to managing medication tapering and addiction treatment.
    • Discover the crucial differences between physical dependence and addiction, and why they matter.
    • Learn about the potential dangers of rapid detoxification and the importance of gradual tapering with substances like buprenorphine.
    • Explore alternative methods for tapering, including the use of compounded medications and home techniques for dose reduction.
    • Hear about the influences of the pharmaceutical industry on prescription practices and the risks associated with psychiatric medications.
    • Find out how universal healthcare regulations in other countries could influence better prescribing rules compared to the U.S. system.
    Visit https://www.benzoinfo.com/ to learn more about Nicole Lamberson's work.

    And please visit our websites for more information, https://drleeds.com, https://benzodoc.com, and our podcast website, https://therehab.com.
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Navigating Trauma in Healthcare: Dr. Pratt's Insights on Adverse Childhood Experiences Study

    Navigating Trauma in Healthcare: Dr. Pratt's Insights on Adverse Childhood Experiences Study
    Jun 17 2024
    Dr. Steven Pratt, M.D., is a distinguished expert in behavioral health and substance use treatment, renowned for his holistic and empathetic approach to therapy. With a robust medical background, Dr. Pratt has dedicated a significant portion of his career to understanding the complex interplay between trauma and addiction. He has been instrumental in promoting trauma-informed care, emphasizing the need to reshape treatment environments to be welcoming and non-triggering for patients who have experienced significant adversity.His expertise is significantly influenced by the groundbreaking Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study, an extensive survey conducted in the mid-1990s. This pivotal research highlighted the profound impacts of childhood trauma on long-term health outcomes, laying the foundation for many of Dr. Pratt's therapeutic strategies. He has persistently advocated for the integration of ACE-related insights into contemporary healthcare practices, underscoring the necessity of universal trauma precautions to improve public health and enhance patient retention in treatment programs.In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Pratt is a strong proponent of harm reduction and motivational interviewing techniques. He champions a multifaceted approach to substance use treatment, tailoring interventions to meet the unique needs of each individual. His stance against traditional "tough love" methodologies favors allowing natural consequences to guide behavior change, emphasizing empathy and compassion without enabling negative behaviors.Dr. Pratt's innovative thinking extends to exploring the potential of artificial intelligence in therapy. He remains hopeful about the development of new tools that can augment healthcare providers' efforts, given the current scarcity and high costs of therapists. His interest in integrating advanced technological solutions with empathetic care practices marks him as a forward-thinking leader in his field.With a commitment to improving therapeutic outcomes through evidence-based practices and innovative approaches, Dr. Steven Pratt continues to make significant contributions to the field of behavioral health, inspiring both his peers and patients alike with his dedication and vision.Substance use treatment is a complex and multifaceted domain requiring a nuanced understanding of various factors that contribute to addictive behaviors. Recent discussions emphasize the role of trauma as a significant trigger for substance use, particularly intravenous drug use. The pioneering Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study offers fundamental insights into this issue. Conducted in the mid-1990s, the study surveyed 13,000 patients and examined the effects of adverse childhood experiences such as physical abuse, neglect, and exposure to domestic violence. The results revealed a profound correlation between high ACE scores and increased likelihood of poor health choices and behavioral health issues, including substance use.The evolving conceptualization of substance use from a character flaw to a disorder or illness underscores the need to address trauma as a core element of treatment. Trauma-informed care has emerged as a critical approach in healthcare settings. By cultivating a welcoming and non-triggering environment, providers can better accommodate individuals whose behaviors are shaped by traumatic experiences. This person-centered model, coupled with positive behavioral supports, is designed to enhance patient retention and improve public health outcomes.Additionally, treatment strategies such as harm reduction and motivational interviewing have proven effective, particularly for individuals in the precontemplative stage of change readiness. Empathy and resistance management are crucial when working with this group. Traditional "tough love" approaches, where individuals are penalized for relapsing, have been found counterproductive in many cases. Instead, allowing natural consequences to influence behavior changes is advocated, thereby fostering autonomy and self-responsibility.The shortage of therapists and the high cost of therapy have led to exploring innovative solutions such as the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in therapeutic settings. AI systems, exemplified by recent advancements in emotional and voice-responsive ChatGPT, may offer new avenues for providing support. While these tools hold promise, they are part of a broader toolkit required for effective substance use treatment and recovery.Medication-assisted treatment offers another vital component in the multifaceted approach to substance use. While there are currently limited options for cocaine and methamphetamine addiction, medication-assisted treatment has shown effectiveness in managing opioid and alcohol use disorders. The simultaneous use of multiple substances presents additional treatment challenges, necessitating ongoing research and development of more comprehensive solutions.Addressing...
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    28 mins
  • Transforming Patient Experience in Mental Health with Brad Stoddard

    Transforming Patient Experience in Mental Health with Brad Stoddard
    May 26 2024
    Here is a podcast description based on the interview with Brad Stoddard:
    Brad Stoddard is a healthcare entrepreneur who has made it his mission to improve the patient experience in mental health care. Despite not having a clinical background himself, Brad has used his business acumen and customer service mindset to transform Sunrise Mental Health.

    In less than a year, Sunrise Mental Health has already outgrown its original office space due to the welcoming, upscale environment Brad and his team have created. By focusing on the details - from the office decor to providing snacks and drinks in the waiting room - they aim to make patients feel calm and cared for from the moment they walk in. Brad also prioritizes hiring genuinely friendly front desk staff to greet patients.

    But Brad's approach goes beyond superficial touches. Sunrise responds to all patient inquiries within minutes, even calling back missed calls when no voicemail is left. They offer both in-person and telehealth appointments to maximize convenience. And Brad analyzes the patient journey from A to Z to identify and address any potential pain points or frustrations.

    The results speak for themselves - Sunrise is rapidly growing through word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied patients. Brad's experience demonstrates the power of prioritizing the patient experience in healthcare. By combining business best practices with a true commitment to customer service, mental health practices can create an environment where patients feel welcomed and supported.

    While clinicians need to focus on providing excellent care, partnering with business leaders who share their values can take the patient experience to the next level. Brad Stoddard is leading by example and showing what's possible when mental healthcare puts patients first.

    Please visit Sunrise Mental Health here: https://www.srmentalhealth.com/

    And, please visit our podcast websites here: https://drleeds.com and https://therehab.com.
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    32 mins
  • Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Cracked Wide Open

    Filmmaker Paul Perrier: Cracked Wide Open
    Mar 7 2024
    Paul Perrier is a man whose life tells a tale of artistry, resilience, and compassion. His memoir, "Cracked Wide Open," reveals his evolution from photographer to documentary filmmaker, drawing readers into the intimate realities of his subjects.

    Perrier is known for his unflinching lens and an unwavering dedication to truth-telling, qualities on full display in his seminal work, "Crack Not Broken." This real-time documentary, unplanned and raw, captures the desperate struggle of Perrier's ex-wife’s oldest friend, a woman ensnared by addiction who turned to prostitution to sustain her crack cocaine dependency.

    Shot within the confines of a downtown Toronto hotel room in just one hour, "Crack Not Broken" is not only a compelling narrative but also a vessel for change. Although the primary goal was to aid the subject’s journey to sobriety, Perrier held onto hope that his documentary would resonate beyond a single individual, serving as a beacon of awareness and potentially guiding others towards the path of recovery.

    Through his work, Paul Perrier documents the human condition in its most fragile forms, endeavoring to make an impact that ripples far beyond the shutter's click or the film’s final frame.

    Paul gives us an insider's look into his intriguing life, shedding light on his documentary work, especially his ground-breaking film "Crack Not Broken," which spotlights the gripping plight of a woman battling crack cocaine addiction.

    This profound work not only made it to the Oprah Winfrey show but emerged as an inspiring segment in an HBO addiction series.We’ll explore the intricate web of addiction, the role art plays in healing, and the gritty realities of an artist's life.

    Paul’s firsthand account of his experiences will unravel the financial and emotional fabric of an artistic career and the toll it can take.We also touch on the moving story of Lisa, whose journey to recovery after the spotlight shines on the human cost of addiction and the ripple effect on families and communities.

    Paul's unwavering belief in the power of art and storytelling manifests as a beacon of hope, not just for those grappling with addiction but for creatives everywhere.In our conversation, we divert into the contemporary issue of technology, examining its addictive nature and its impact on personal relationships and society at large.

    Paul draws parallels between substance addiction and our growing dependency on social media, bringing critical attention to the way these platforms are reshaping our interactions.Through highs and lows, Paul Perrier's story is one of resilience and dedication. "Cracked Wide Open" stands as a testament to his journey and as an offering of solace and motivation for those struggling.

    Get Paul Perrier's book here: https://a.co/d/6Qry01W

    Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.
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    37 mins
  • Eric Fisher and The Martial Art of Recovery: A Fresh Perspective on Addiction Recovery

    Eric Fisher and The Martial Art of Recovery: A Fresh Perspective on Addiction Recovery
    Mar 7 2024
    Eric Fisher's life story is one that intertwines the discipline of martial arts with the transformative power of recovery. As a young man, Eric was captivated by the mystique and philosophy of martial arts.

    Eric's imagination was sparked by the imagery he associated with martial arts: mastery, focus, and an indomitable spirit.This fascination led Eric down a path of dedication and resilience, eventually culminating in his own journey of personal recovery.

    Recognizing the potent parallels between the teachings of martial arts and the process of recovering from life's challenges, Eric went on to author a book. His work explores this unique nexus, sharing insights on how the focus and discipline learned in martial arts can be leveraged to aid in recovery and personal growth.

    Eric's story is a testament to the power of integrating these two worlds, and through his book, he hopes to inspire others to find balance and strength within themselves.

    In this episode of The Rehab, host Dr. Mark Leeds is joined by guest Eric Fisher to discuss Eric's upcoming book, "The Martial Art of Recovery." The book aims to provide practical and down-to-earth concepts that can aid those in recovery from addiction.

    Eric shares his excitement about the unique approach to recovery and draws parallels between martial arts, spirituality, and addiction treatment. The conversation goes into various addictions, the challenges of treating substances like cocaine and cannabis, and the complexities of dependence and addiction.

    The episode concludes with a look at pre-order details and how to connect with Eric Fisher. Join us for this enlightening discussion on addiction and recovery.

    Please visit our websites here: https://therehab.com and https://drleeds.com.
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    27 mins