Consciousness is key to our human potential. This area of research investigates 1) “What is it like?” and 2) “How does it happen?” using phenomenology and neurophenomenology, respectively. The central hypothesis is that internal perception lends observation and insight into the structure, or scaffolding, of consciousness, with associated brain states informing Chalmers’ “hard problem of consciousness.” Answers to “What?” and “How?” are also open to non-biological foundations, calling for a new science of metaphysics to explain relations between the mind and universe.

In my view, addiction is the most significant health issue of the 21st century. As a disorder of consciousness, the awareness and salience of addiction cues, such as a line of cocaine, heightens over the course of abstinence, where “absence makes the heart grow fonder” leads directly to relapse. Cocaine is now the second leading cause of overdose death in the U.S. and there are no FDA approved treatments for psychostimulant use disorders. This research aims to reverse the maladapative neuroplasticity underlying cue-induced drug cravings and restore psychological insight.

Cannabis is the most used illicit substance worldwide, with archeological evidence indicating ancient use in religious ceremonies. Today, the impact of high potency products, particularly on the developing mind and brain, is understudied. My research supports recent findings indicating that cannabis is harmful to brain development, while preferentially impairing cognitive functions in individuals during the neurodevelopmental period of adolescence. This work informs a common knowledge, just as cigarettes are “bad for the lungs,” that cannabis is “bad for the brain.”

Adolescents are uniquely vulnerable to mental health issues. In my view, young people are also the most creative, understanding, and passionate individuals in the fabric of society. My work with adolescents extends beyond understanding the developing brain, to understanding and supporting the perspectives of young people. Research in this area is tailored toward maximizing potential for a mindful future for adolescent and teen mental health.

The word “psychedelic” was coined by Humphy Osmond and Aldous Huxley to draw attention to the “mind manifesting” effects of a certain class of hallucinogens, now broadly recognized as agonists of the 5-HT2a receptor. My prior work on the neuroscience of very low or “microdoses” of LSD found potential therapeutic effects on the brain, while future studies with single high doses of psilocybin aim to target neural mechanisms of addiction to curb cravings and restore insight.

My recent work investigates the relationships between nature and health. This includes the role of natural environments for promoting wellness, from interacting with plants and animals, to healthy urban design. The work involves understanding Indigenous ways of knowing, or Traditional Ecological Knowledge, from ceremonial plant medicines, to stewardship and reciprocity to maximize planetary health.