Welcome to Emergence, an intellectually stimulating and community-oriented speaker series dedicated to exploring the vibrant resurgence of psychedelic research in the San Francisco Bay Area. After decades of dormancy, this field is undergoing a profound renaissance, and Emergence seeks to be at the forefront of this exciting journey. This event series is curated by Danielle Nova (SF Psychedelic Society) and Manesh Girn Ph.D (UCSF/ The Psychedelic Scientist). The event is held at the Alembic in Berkeley, California at 2pm pacific time on Saturday July 13th.

The first event of our series explores Your Brain on Psychedelics, presented by esteemed psychedelic researcher at UCSF, Dr. Manesh Girn Ph.D! Psychedelics, when used with proper preparation and integration, have the power to facilitate lasting changes in our behavior and mental health. Manesh’s presentation will explore what happens to the brain and the science behind these changes with a focus on the concept of neuroplasticity, which refers to our brain’s ability to rewire itself and create new connections.

Come join Dr. Manesh Girn PhD as he provides a guided tour through what exactly neuroplasticity is, the ways in which psychedelics affect it, and how it can be best harnessed for healing and behavior change in the context of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. The discussion will be framed using concepts from the latest scientific findings and perspectives, drawing heavily on the concept of ‘self-directed neuroplasticity’. Expect to leave this workshop with an informed and practical understanding of neuroplasticity that can be applied both in your own life – with and without psychedelics – and in the context of working with others.