Dr. Amy De La Garza: From Plastic Surgery Dreams to Addiction Medicine Innovations
Addiction is a lifelong, complicated disease and there is no one answer. And this is just another alternative, not a drug, but acupuncture.
What happens when a promising plastic surgeon's career takes an unexpected turn into addiction medicine? Dr. Amy De La Garza shares her fascinating journey on this episode of Odyssey House Journals. Initially set on becoming a wealthy plastic surgeon, a series of life events led her to the world of addiction medicine, where she now stands at the forefront of innovative treatments. Dr.
De La Garza dives into her work with psychedelics, ketamine, and acupuncture as potential therapies for substance use disorders. She passionately discusses how these alternative treatments could reshape the future of addiction recovery. Her insights are not just about the science; they’re about hope and personalized care. At NovaMind, Dr. De La Garza is developing an outpatient program that aims to provide tailored treatment plans for those battling addiction.
She talks about the rigorous protocols involved in using substances like MDMA and psilocybin, emphasizing their potential benefits despite societal stigmas. Ketamine also features prominently in her research, where she highlights its low addiction risk but stresses the importance of cautious use and monitoring. Acupuncture, often overlooked, is another tool in her arsenal. Dr. De La Garza explains how it can offer immediate relief and be a significant part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Throughout the episode, she underscores the necessity of individualized care, recognizing that no single approach fits all when dealing with addiction. This episode is a treasure trove of information and encouragement for anyone affected by addiction or interested in cutting-edge treatments.