SoCal physician turns to psychedelic drugs as alternative approach to treating mental illnesses

In recent years, psychedelics have emerged as an alternative approach to treating a variety of mental illnesses, including PTSD.

In 2019, the Federal Drug Administration designated psilocybin, also known as magic mushrooms, as a “breakthrough therapy” for treatment-resistant depression.

Now, one family medicine physician is on a mission to make these types of therapies available to those who can benefit.

Ketamine. Magic mushrooms. MDMA. These are different forms of psychedelics.

“Psychedelic refers to a compound or substance that can alter our perception, our mood, and our consciousness,” said Dr. April Soto, founder of

LALIM Health

in South Pasadena.

After 15 years in family medicine, Dr. April Soto decided to open her own practice after working on her own mental health.

“I had major, major trauma as a child,” she said.

Fear and dread led to insomnia. Talking to a psychologist and meditation helped, but Soto experienced even deeper healing with psychedelic therapy.

READ ALSO: Psychedelics one step closer to being decriminalized in California; bill headed to governor’s desk

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