In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Jonathan Avery, Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, about gambling disorder — a condition that is far more prevalent than most people recognize, yet frequently overlooked and misunderstood. Dr. Avery traces the history of gambling disorder as a diagnosis and explains the neurobiology behind why gambling can become addictive, including how it activates the brain’s reward pathways in ways that parallel substance use disorders. Their conversation explores how the explosive growth of online and sports betting has expanded the reach of problematic gambling, particularly among younger adults. Dr. Avery also discusses the warning signs clinicians and loved ones should watch for, the shame and secrecy that often delay help-seeking, and the full range of evidence-based treatments available, including psychotherapy, 12-step programs, and medications such as naltrexone and GLP-1 agonists. This episode offers a clinically grounded and compassionate look at a disorder that is hiding in plain sight.

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Evelyn Attia, Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Director of the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Eating Disorders, and Suzanne Straebler, Clinical Director of the Center for Eating Disorders outpatient programs, about the diagnosis and treatment of eating disorders.

Drawing on deep clinical and research expertise, they trace the history of eating disorders from ancient accounts of self-starvation to their recognition as distinct psychiatric diagnoses and contemporary cultural impact. Their discussion covers what is known about the prevalence of these conditions and the genetic, neurobiological and sociocultural factors that shape them.

Listeners will learn the defining features of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other related diagnoses--with a focus on health disparities across underserved communities, the elevated mortality and suicide risk associated with these illnesses, and the multimodal treatment landscape, spanning medical stabilization, psychopharmacology and evidence-based psychotherapies. This episode provides a comprehensive, up-to-date guide to eating disorders from two clinicians at the forefront of the field.



Additional resources for further learning:

https://www.nyp.org/psychiatry/center-for-eating-disorders

https://Prepared.nyspi.org

https://feast-ed.org/ 

https://fedupcollective.org/  

Learn more about Randall Martin, PhD 

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Wilfred Farquharson about police involvement during youth mental health crises. Dr. Farquharson describes his research on the factors associated with police bringing children into psychiatry emergency rooms. Their discussion covers the social, psychological, and clinical implications of law enforcement intervention and shares solution-oriented recommendations for helping the families, schools, providers, and children involved in these challenging emergencies. Dr. Farquharson also speaks about his role leading the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Childhood and Adolescent Behavioral Health, which is meeting the challenge of escalating youth mental health needs in the community.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Nili Solomonov about her innovative psychotherapy research and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in mental healthcare. Dr. Solomonov describes how her lab harnesses the computational power of AI to investigate mechanisms underlying effective psychotherapy. Her findings have led to the creation of an evidence-based treatment modality (called Engage and Connect) initially designed for older adults. Their conversation explores how research can expand access to effective psychological treatments, the ways Engage and Connect has been adapted for diverse patient populations, and the complex landscape of AI in mental health, including its significant risks and potential clinical applications. 

Learn more about the American Psychological Association’s health advisory on the use of generative AI chatbots and wellness applications for mental health 

Learn more about Dr. Solomonov’s research 

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about two distinct but related diagnoses: obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and olfactory reference disorder (ORD), a lesser-known condition characterized by abnormal preoccupation with body odor. Dr. Phillips explains how the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors central to both OCD and ORD can cause profound distress and impairment. She discusses how the two differ in their core features, explains why ORD is often overlooked or misdiagnosed, and provides an overview of the effective, evidence-based treatments for both disorders.

In this special episode of On the Mind, the tables are turned as two psychiatry residents, Dr. Phil Martinez and Dr. Jaime Peter, take over the host’s seat to interview Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, Director of Residency Training in Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Together, they dive into the residency application and selection process from start to finish. Their candid conversation offers valuable tips and a rare, inside perspective from a program director—essential listening for any medical student considering psychiatry.

In this episode of On the Mind, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Anne McBride, a senior child and adolescent psychiatrist and professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, about the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Drawing on her extensive expertise in psychopharmacology, Dr. McBride walks through the diagnostic process—from behavioral assessments and developmental history to common challenges in distinguishing ADHD from other conditions. They explore evidence-based treatment options, including the nuances of stimulant and non-stimulant medications, as well as behavioral therapy and complementary strategies. This conversation offers a clear, comprehensive overview of ADHD from a clinician with decades of experience.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Diana Diamond about the complex psychology of narcissism. Drawing on her deep expertise in personality disorders, Dr. Diamond explores the continuum from everyday narcissistic traits to pathological narcissism. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on the diagnosis and treatment of narcissistic personality disorder, the impact of narcissistic pathology on attachment and relationships, and whether today’s culture fosters narcissistic tendencies. Tune in for a thought-provoking and timely discussion of a topic that has increasingly captured the public's attention and sparked cultural debate.

Dr. Elizabeth Anne Grill discusses the emotional journey that couples can experience during infertility. She offers invaluable insights on coping strategies that foster emotional resilience when feelings of grief, anger, and despair arise. She also delves into actionable advice for friends, family, and partners to provide the empathic support that is crucial during this time.

To schedule with Dr. Elizabeth Anne Grill 

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher sits down with Dr. Andrea Temkin-Yu to share essential guidance for parents navigating the adolescent years. Covering several topics from her new book, they explore how to manage screen time, use validation effectively, implement consistent consequences, and help teens weather emotional storms. Tune in for practical, science-backed strategies for supporting your teen’s mental health.

This episode explores bipolar disorder, a core psychiatric condition affecting millions globally. Join Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher and renowned mood disorders expert Dr. James Kocsis as they delve into the complexities of this condition, discuss its spectrum of symptoms, and share insights on effective management approaches.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Drs. Janna Gordon-Elliott and Virginia Mutch to explore the collaborative care model, which integrates behavioral health into primary care practices and other medical settings. This approach has proven to enhance access to mental health services, reduce healthcare costs, and improve patient outcomes across diverse populations. Their in-depth conversation delves into the history of collaborative care, its evidence-based benefits, and the challenges associated with its implementation and practice. Listen to learn more about the growing adoption of this model and its promising role in addressing mental health disparities.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Yunyu Xiao to dive deep into the complex factors driving youth suicide. Dr. Xiao shares insights from her groundbreaking research, which highlights how social determinants of health are directly influencing troubling trends in suicide rates among adolescents from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through her analysis of large data sets, Dr. Xiao has uncovered distinct patterns of risk, offering a clearer understanding of the disparities fueling the rise in suicidal behaviors. Tune in to learn how her work can inform more effective public policy and guide the development of targeted interventions to help reverse the growing crisis of youth suicide.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Susan Evans about the benefits of practicing mindfulness. They explore its history and the science supporting the therapeutic benefits of mindfulness-based practices. Dr. Evans shares how mindfulness can be integrated into psychotherapy, emphasizing its role in enhancing emotional regulation, reducing self-critical judgment, and fostering self-awareness.

Toward the end of the episode, listeners are invited to participate in a brief, guided meditation led by Dr. Evans, providing an opportunity to experience mindfulness in action. Join us for this enlightening discussion that uncovers the profound impact of mindfulness on mental health and well-being.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages in a comprehensive conversation with Dr. Leonardo Lopez about schizophrenia. Together, they explore the historical context of this significant psychiatric disorder, current standards of care, and innovative treatment options on the horizon. Dr. Lopez also discusses the shortcomings of public policy in addressing the needs of those affected by schizophrenia. Listeners will gain valuable insights and a contemporary understanding of this crucial mental health issue that impacts millions worldwide.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher talks with Dr. Jyoti Pathak about the critical role of mental health services research and the innovative use of technology in this field. Dr. Pathak describes how researchers use machine learning and artificial intelligence to identify and understand the factors contributing to disparities in mental healthcare delivery. He shares compelling examples from his work on postpartum depression and the stigma surrounding addiction, demonstrating how advanced tools uncover complex structural problems within our system. Tune in to learn how harnessing technology can lead to targeted solutions for improving access and equity in mental healthcare.

In this special election year episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher engages with Dr. Richard Friedman to explore the psychological toll of contemporary American politics. They discuss how polarization, uncertainty, and political violence contribute to rising levels of stress, anxiety, and depression across different segments of society. Dr. Friedman explains how to differentiate between normal emotional responses to the electoral process and clinically significant mental health issues. He also shares practical tips for managing stress during the election season and offers interpersonal strategies for bridging the political divide. Tune in for a timely conversation that addresses the intersection of mental health and politics.

In this episode of On the Mind, our host and Weill Cornell Medicine General Psychiatry Residency Director, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, meets with two second year residents, Drs. Maya Graves and Nathen Spitz, for an inside look at residency training. They share invaluable insights on the application process, crafting personal statements, and why psychiatry is a rewarding specialty. Hear directly from residents as they discuss the realities of work-life balance during residency, tips for choosing where to apply, and other essential advice for medical students considering a future in psychiatry.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with Dr. Katharine Phillips about body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Dr. Phillips provides a comprehensive overview of BDD, describing how major distortions in self-perception lead to significant impairment and suffering. She explains why this diagnosis is often missed or misunderstood, explores its wide-ranging impact, and identifies effective, evidence-backed treatments designed to help those struggling with BDD.

Katharine Phillips, M.D., is internationally known for her expertise in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and related disorders. For over 30 years, Dr. Phillips has conducted ground-breaking scientific research on BDD and has provided expert evaluation and treatment with medication and therapy for people with these conditions. She is currently Professor of Psychiatry, DeWitt Wallace Senior Scholar, and Residency Research Director for the Department of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Attending Psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.

In this episode, we explore a unique model for serving the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ individuals. The Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic is a student-run mental health clinic providing free mental healthcare to the LGBTQ+ community in New York City. It serves as a model for education, affirming mental health care, and outreach to an underserved population. Join Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher as he discusses the Qlinic, its clinical programs and educational initiatives with two of the Wellness Qlinic co-founders Dr. Jessica Spellun and Constance Zhou, and the Qlinic’s Director of Research, Dr. Christopher Ceccolini.

Featured Speakers:

Christopher Ceccolini, Ph.D. (he/him) is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine, an attending psychologist at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine affiliated hospital, Gracie Square Hospital, and a psychologist in private practice in Manhattan. He is one of the current faculty advisors and the Director of Research for the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic.

Jessica Spellun, M.D. (she/her) is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and a psychiatrist in private practice. As a resident she helped to build the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic and later served as one of the faculty directors.

Constance Zhou (they/them) is an MD-PhD student at Weill Cornell Medicine interested in psychiatry. They are also the co-founder of the Weill Cornell Wellness Qlinic and served as the Clinical Executive Director of the Qlinic from 2019-2024.

In this episode, host Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher speaks with the Dr. Dennis Popeo, the Director of Neuromodulation at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell Medical Center, about electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Dr. Popeo gives an overview of ECT and explains the basic mechanisms that make the treatment so effective. We discuss the history of ECT treatments and how years of research and care have developed this into a safe, life changing treatment for patients with mental illnesses such as treatment resistant depression, schizophrenia, and more.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher explores the complexities of women's mental health during hormonal transitions with Lauren Osborne, M.D. and Alison Hermann, M.D. The conversation focuses on mental health throughout the various stages of life and hormonal changes. Discover the underlying factors influencing women's mental well-being during these transformative stages, alongside ongoing research and emerging training opportunities for clinicians to specialize in women's psychiatry. Gain insights into evidence-based treatments and strategies tailored to support women through these hormonal changes, providing valuable perspectives for practitioners and individuals navigating these transitions.

To further our understanding of youth mental health, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Francis Lee, who describes his groundbreaking research on the neurobiology of adolescent development. They discuss the processes underlying adolescent brain development, exploring why this critical period presents increased risk for anxiety disorders and depression, but also presents unique opportunities for effective treatments. Learn how impactful factors during critical periods of brain development effect resilience and psychological wellbeing, including social media use, early life adversity and more.

In this episode Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Jonathan Avery to discuss alcohol use disorder and how stigma impacts our response to this condition. Learn how to identify problematic alcohol use in yourself or someone close to you and what to discuss with your doctor when looking for support. We reflect on how alcohol use disorders have no “one size fits all” solution. Effective treatments rely on a variety of methods that can be tailored to suit the individual needs of each patient. 

Jonathan Avery, M.D. is the Vice Chair for Addiction Psychiatry, the Stephen P. Tobin and Dr. Arnold M. Cooper Associate Professor in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry, and the Program Director for the Addiction Psychiatry Fellowship. Dr. Avery’s primary academic focus has been to examine and help develop interventions to improve clinicians’ attitudes towards patients with substance use disorders. He is also focused on educating all physicians on how to treat individuals with co-occurring substance use disorders and mental illness.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. Conor Liston to describe recent neuroscientific breakthroughs that are transforming how we diagnose and treat common psychiatric conditions, like depression. Learn how research advances in brain imaging and neuromodulation investigated at Weill Cornell Medicine are leading to novel approaches for providing targeted and effective mental healthcare. 

Conor Liston, M.D, Ph.D., is a Professor of Psychiatry and of Neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medicine. Dr. Liston’s research aims to define mechanisms by which prefrontal cortical brain circuits support learning, memory and motivation, and to understand how these functions are disrupted in depression and other stress-related psychiatric disorders.

In part two of this two-part discussion on trauma, host, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, speaks with Dr. Jessica Hartman about treatments that can build resilience after a traumatic event or experience. We explore various options for treatment, including different forms of psychotherapy, medications, and new interventions that are showing significant promise for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Hartman also highlights steps outside of formal treatment that can be taken by individuals or their loved ones who want to help alleviate the effects of trauma.

She also names several online resources for learning more information about trauma including : The National Child Traumatic Stress Network https://www.nctsn.org/

Learn more about SAMHSA 

US Dept of Veteran’s Affairs (VA)


Featured Speaker: Jessica Hartman, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and an Assistant Attending Psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. As an assistant attending, Dr. Hartman works within the adolescent inpatient unit and the child outpatient department. Her clinical expertise is in trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and child and adolescent psychology.

Learn more about Jessica Hartman, Ph.D 

In part one of this two-part discussion, host, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher, speaks with Dr. Jessica Hartman about trauma. During this first episode, we define trauma, describe the range of long-lasting psychological effects that can emerge after a traumatic event, identify the importance of adverse child experiences, and explore trauma informed care. Our discussion covers the difference between individual trauma, collective trauma, and intergenerational trauma. Dr. Hartman describes the widespread impact of trauma on individuals and communities, identifying it as a social justice issue and describing societal changes that could help reduce its prevalence.

Resources on Trauma: The National Child Traumatic Stress Network ---  SAMHSA ---  US Dept of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) 

Featured Speaker: Jessica Hartman, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Psychology in Clinical Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and an Assistant Attending Psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. As an assistant attending, Dr. Hartman works within the adolescent inpatient unit and the child outpatient department. Her clinical expertise is in trauma, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and child and adolescent psychology. https://weillcornell.org/jessica-hartman-phd

n this episode, Daniel Knoepflmacher, M.D., speaks with Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D., about depression in older adults. Listen for a discussion that identifies key aspects of late life depression and highlights available resources for treatment in New York. While describing treatment methods, Dr. Sirey explains the importance of community-based approaches featuring personalized elements that help address the diverse needs of a multicultural, urban population. She also describes the important challenges and opportunities that technology creates in the delivery of psychiatric care for older adults in the community.

For more information on available resources, such as Do More Feel Better and Trio for Successful Aging, visit the Sirey Lab website at https://sireylab.weill.cornell.edu/

Featured Speaker:
Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D. is a Professor of Psychology in Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. She has an expertise in developing partnerships and conducting mental health interventions in community-based settings. Her research focus is on the development, implementation and impact of interventions that address psychological barriers and stigma to improve treatment engagement, treatment participation and adherence. 

Learn more about Jo Anne Sirey, Ph.D. 

In this special edition episode, Dr. Daniel Knoepflmacher is joined by Dr. George Makari to discuss his recent essay “What Covid Revealed About American Psychiatry.” In their wide-ranging discussion, Dr. Makari describes the longstanding fractures in our psychiatric healthcare system that were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Using history as context, he outlines the complex and dysfunctional system of mental health care in America; shedding light on the core problems and what needs to change to address them.

In this episode, we speak with Angela Wai Mon Chiu Ph.D. about youth anxiety. Join Dr. Knoepflmacher for an interview exploring the causes of anxiety within children and adolescents and evidence-based treatments and tactics that can be used to treat mild to severe anxiety. 

For more information on tactics and assessments discussed in the episode, visit: the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Youth Mental Health or read Tools for Supporting Wellbeing in Children.

Featured Speaker:
Angela Wai Mon Chiu, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine. As a licensed clinical psychologist, she specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as modular approaches to treatment for a wide array of presenting problems including social phobia, separation anxiety disorder, panic disorder, OCD, specific phobias, trauma, generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and oppositional defiant disorder. In addition to her clinical work, she has received several notable awards, including the National Research Service Award from the National Institute of Mental Health and a Dissertation Research Award from the American Psychological Association.

In this episode, we speak with Justin A. Chen, M.D., M.P.H. about disparities in mental healthcare. Join us in a discussion that defines “health justice” and explores how our society views mental health and psychiatric care. Learn the causes behind limited access to mental health support and what patients, providers and the public can do to start to turn this around. Featured Speaker: Justin A. Chen, M.D., M.P.H. is an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry, Vice Chair for Ambulatory Services, and Vice Chair for Health Justice at Weill Cornell Medicine Psychiatry. In these roles, Dr. Chen is responsible for overseeing and advancing behavioral health outpatient services to ensure the delivery of innovative high quality, patient-centered care that is accessible to the diverse populations of New York City and Westchester County.

In episode two of this two-part discussion, we speak with Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. and Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W., about borderline personality disorder (BPD). Continuing the last episode’s conversation, our panelists explain treatment methods for those with BPD while highlighting how providers and patients can utilize two key resources—the NewYork-Presbyterian Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center and Emotions Matter. Explore the links below for more information on these resources.

Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center 

Welcome to Emotions Matter!

Guests:

Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W. is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Emotions Matter Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, supporting and advocating for those impacted by borderline personality disorder (BPD). Ms. Tusiani-Eng is also co-author with her mother, Bea Tusiani, of Remnants of a Life on Paper: A Mother and Daughter's Struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)—a book dedicated to her late sister, Pamela Tusiani, who suffered from BPD. Along with her family, Ms. Tusiani-Eng has provided support relating to BPD to Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.


Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. is a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and director of training at the Personality Disorders Institute of Weill-Cornell. In addition to his voluntary faculty practice at Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Yeomans is the director of the Personality Studies Institute. Along with publishing several articles and books, his primary interests include the development, investigation, teaching, and practice of psychotherapy for personality disorders.

In this two-part discussion, we speak with Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. and Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W., about borderline personality disorder (BPD). Our panelists begin episode one by defining and demystifying the disorder with the hopes of dismantling some of the stigma surrounding BPD through education.

Ms. Tusiani-Eng describes her personal and professional experiences with BPD, while providing context of some of the symptoms and impacts of the disorder. The discussion continues with Dr. Yeomans providing context on how a patient may be diagnosed along with barrier to diagnosis.

Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center

Welcome to Emotions Matter!

Guests:
Paula Tusiani-Eng, L.M.S.W. is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Emotions Matter Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, supporting and advocating for those impacted by borderline personality disorder (BPD). Ms. Tusiani-Eng is also co-author with her mother, Bea Tusiani, of Remnants of a Life on Paper: A Mother and Daughter's Struggle with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)—a book dedicated to her late sister, Pamela Tusiani, who suffered from BPD. Along with her family, Ms. Tusiani-Eng has provided support relating to BPD to Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian.

Frank E. Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D. is a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and director of training at the Personality Disorders Institute of Weill Cornell. In addition to his voluntary faculty practice at Weill Cornell Medicine, Dr. Yeomans is the director of the Personality Studies Institute. Along with publishing several articles and books, his primary interests include the development, investigation, teaching, and practice of psychotherapy for personality disorders.

Learn more about Frank Yeomans, M.D., Ph.D

In this episode, we speak with Amy Lemelman, Ph.D. about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Lemelman begins by providing a basic understanding of autism spectrum disorder before guiding families and patients on how to take their first steps toward diagnosis and treatment. In understanding the patient journey, we discuss the disparities in care for families and patients of different cultural, racial and socio-economic backgrounds. Dr. Lemelman also explores the positive and negative effects of our media and culture on diagnosis and stigma associated with autism spectrum disorder.

Learn more about the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain 

Featured Speaker: Amy Lemelman, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and a psychologist at the NewYork-Presbyterian Center for Autism and the Developing Brain. Dr. Lemelman specializes in research and clinical care for children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder.

In our first episode, we speak with Richard A. Friedman, M.D. about the latest news exploring the intersection of psychedelics and psychiatry. Dr. Friedman highlights the effects psychedelic drugs have on the brain’s neuroplasticity, misconceptions about mind altering drugs, and the surprising findings of research on the drugs’ mental health benefits and risks.

Please note that the use of psychedelics is not FDA approved and is only to be used by in medical research settings under strict safety protocols.

Read Dr. Friedman’s article referenced in this episode 

Featured Speaker: Richard A. Friedman, M.D. is a professor of clinical psychiatry and director of the Psychopharmacology Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine. His clinical and research focus is on anxiety, mood disorders, psychopharmacology, and refractory depression.

Learn more about Dr. Friedman 

In this episode, we speak with Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D. about the impact of cultural diversity on mental health and health care. Reflecting on the diversity of patient experiences connecting with mental health providers, Dr. Cherestal shares examples of how intersectionality and racial trauma impact psychotherapeutic treatments. Along with these examples, Dr. Cherestal provides vital steps for patients and providers to take when considering culturally responsive mental health care.

Featured Speaker: Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of psychology in clinical psychiatry and co-director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Cherestal is also an assistant attending and director of the Adult and Adolescent Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Program in the Outpatient Department at NewYork-Presbyterian Westchester Behavioral Health. 

Learn more about Stephanie Cherestal, Ph.D.