From Trauma to Transformation: A Former Paramedic's Journey into the Healing Powers of Psychedelics with Tara Portelli

Artwork for podcast University of Adversity

27th May 2024 • University of Adversity • Lance W Essihos

Tara Portelli is a former paramedic who has transitioned her focus to mental health and psychedelics. Drawing from her background in emergency services and experiences with medicinal mushrooms, Portelli is on a mission to support first responders and others in high-stress professions through proactive mental health strategies.

In this episode, Tara Portelli shares her personal journey from the high-pressure world of emergency services to her current work in mental health and psychedelic advocacy. She candidly discusses the immense emotional toll that first responders often face, and the need for effective coping mechanisms to process trauma and difficult experiences.

Portelli emphasizes the transformative power of practices like meditation, breathwork, and even psilocybin-assisted therapy. She recounts a life-changing psychedelic journey in Tulum, Mexico, and the profound insights it provided for her own healing and personal growth.

With a unique blend of emergency services expertise and mental health advocacy, Portelli aims to destigmatize psychedelics and highlight their therapeutic potential. She also explores the benefits of plant-based microdosing and the use of hypnosis for subconscious neural reprogramming.

Ultimately, Portelli's story underscores the importance of proactive, holistic approaches to mental health - particularly for those in high-stress professions. Her mission is to empower first responders and others to harness the transformative power of psychedelics and alternative healing modalities.

Time Stamps:

(00:07:01) Emotional Toll on First Responders in Emergency Services

(00:12:04) Impact of Traumatic Events on First Responders' Mental Health

(00:19:10) Mental Health Support in Emergency Services

(00:23:20) Resilience through Mindfulness Practice in High-Stress Environments

(00:30:37) Psilocybin's Transformational Empowerment and Trust Journey

(00:45:10) Transformative Potential: Overcoming Psychedelic Stigma

(00:54:27) Plant-Based Microdosing for Mental Health Benefits

(00:59:31) Harnessing Internal Power for Healing Transformation

(01:01:39) Harnessing Hypnosis for Subconscious Neural Reprogramming

Connect with Tara:

- Website: www.taraportelli.com