Kaitlin Carlson, LMSW

Clinican

My journey with non-ordinary states of consciousness and expanded mind-states began nearly 30 years ago. During this exploratory time, profound insight into self, peers, relationships and connectivity to all things began to develop. This was one of the most exciting times in my life where there was a clear expansion towards love and compassionate understanding of self. I also felt a clear connection to all things and a sense of community and belonging which as a young person was so valuable and served as a catalysis to self-actualization, development of self, and further insights into my place in this world. During this exploratory phase, I had no framework for the future medicinal implications of psychedelics and altered states; however, my experience is consistent with the outcomes we have seen in psychedelic research over the past few decades further validating my experience and perception of this being a meaningful viable future treatment. I have since been advocating for the medicinal uses of plant medicines. While in graduate school over a decade ago, I began my professional journey into psychedelic research focusing specifically on psilocybin in hospice care and end-of-life. I was inspired but not surprised by the meaningful evidence that psilocybin can foster a sense of wellbeing and help people better cope with end-of-life, death and dying. I am additionally excited about the research supporting the therapeutic potentials of ketamine and other psychedelics/plant medicines for substance use disorder.

My goal is to provide a safe compassionate non-judgmental space for curious exploration and expansion. I want you to feel freedom while being emotionally held and supported by someone who inherently cares deeply for you and admires your courage and desire for something different. I will explore what led you to where you are today, goals and intentions you set, and help you facilitate a tailored experience based on your personal needs and goals. I would be honored to share in your journey.

Tennessee State University – MSSW

Trevecca University – BS in Behavioral Science

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy – Polaris Insight Center (in Progress)

Certified Trauma Professional

Certified Transitional Coach

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker and I am working towards my advanced clinical licensure. I have been working with older adults, adults 18+ with physical, cognitive and psychiatric disabilities and families for over 20 years. I provide a compassionate, non-judgement, supportive environment for individuals and their families navigating complex life events. I have experience with and a vast knowledgebase of acute, chronic and terminal diseases, cognitive disorders, psychiatrist disorders and the management of these conditions. I collaborated with Vanderbilt Medical Center to provide a 30-day evidence-based coaching intervention to foster client engagement and better health outcomes. This intervention was later expanded to include additional providers and other complex diseases. I have provided individual and group recreational therapy to adults with persistent mental illness and cognitive disorders in additional to individual and group psychotherapy in an inpatient acute psychiatric care setting. I have received intermediate training in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy through Polaris and will continue to pursue advanced training.