Geral Blanchard, LPC, BCCP, NCP, has enjoyed the privilege of serving patients in a psychotherapeutic setting over several decades. His professional career began in the field of child abuse, and later he addressed both sides of the equation-abusers as well as victims. Gerry has worked in a variety of settings as a consultant assessing violent individuals including rapists, lust murderers, and serial killers. With training in anthropology and psychology, Gerry has become increasingly appreciative of the diverse ways in which antipodal cultures respond to trauma, addictions, abusive behavior, and other seemingly irreparable physical maladies. In the last decade, his practice has shifted focus to incorporate indigenous healing wisdom into contemporary treatment models impacting a wide variety of patients. Gerry has observed and worked alongside shamans and sangomas in a variety of locations: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Swaziland, Rwanda, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Canada, and the United States. He has participated in many indigenous rituals and ceremonies that incorporate plant medicines into the healing process. This experience has given him a strong interest in the efficacy of psychedelic medicines, especially when introduced in sacred treatment settings. Gerry has a psychotherapy office in Des Moines, Iowa, and can be reached at [...]