Dr. Stephanie Knatz Peck: Revolutionizing eating disorder treatment with psychedelic research

SAN DIEGO, California, 21 October 2024. In an illuminating Genomic Press Interview published today, Dr. Stephanie Knatz Peck, Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), unveils her groundbreaking work in eating disorder treatment and psychedelic research. The interview, featured in the journal Psychedelics, offers an intimate look at Dr. Knatz Peck's journey from personal struggle with an eating disorder to becoming a leading innovator in the field.

Dr. Knatz Peck's research uniquely bridges clinical practice with cutting-edge interventions, focusing on developing novel treatments for anorexia nervosa (AN). Her work has culminated in the development of Temperament-Based Treatment with Supports (TBT-S), a behavioral intervention that has gained international recognition.

"My hope is to support the cause to find better treatments for those suffering from treatment-resistant mental health conditions, especially eating disorders," Dr. Knatz Peck states in the interview. This mission has led her to explore the potential of psychedelic-assisted therapies, marking a significant shift in eating disorder research.

In a field-defining moment, Dr. Knatz Peck co-investigated the first clinical trial evaluating psilocybin treatment for AN. This pioneering study opens new avenues for treating a notoriously challenging condition. How might the integration of psychedelics reshape our understanding of eating disorders and their treatment?

The interview delves into Dr. Knatz Peck's unique background as a "third-culture kid," which she credits for her cognitive flexibility and openness to novel approaches. "Being extracted from this cultural framework allowed me to be consistently aware of how people and perspectives can differ throughout my life," she explains. This perspective has undoubtedly influenced her innovative approach to mental health treatment.

Dr. Knatz Peck's work extends beyond the lab, as she actively trains clinicians worldwide in TBT-S. Her collaboration with Compass Pathways in developing psychological support models for psilocybin therapy underscores the growing intersection of traditional psychotherapy and psychedelic treatments. What implications does this have for the future of mental health care, particularly for treatment-resistant conditions?

The Genomic Press Interview also offers a glimpse into Dr. Knatz Peck's personal life, revealing her passion for dance, surfing, and fashion. This holistic view of the scientist behind the research provides valuable context to her work and motivations.

As the field of psychedelic research continues to evolve, Dr. Knatz Peck's work stands out for its potential to transform the lives of those struggling with eating disorders. Her commitment to finding new models of care raises intriguing questions about the future of psychiatric treatment. How will the integration of psychedelic therapies and personalized, temperament-based approaches reshape our understanding of mental health and recovery?

Dr. Stephanie Knatz Peck’s Genomic Press interview is part of a larger series that highlights the people behind today’s most influential scientific ideas. Each interview in the series offers a blend of cutting-edge research and personal reflections, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the scientists shaping the future. By combining a focus on professional achievements with personal insights, this interview style invites a richer narrative that both engages and educates readers. This format provides an ideal starting point for profiles that delve into the scientist’s impact on the field, while also touching on broader human themes. More information on the research leaders and research rising stars featured by Genomic Press can be found in our website: https://genomicpress.com.

The full Genomic Press Interview, titled “Stephanie Knatz Peck: Novel and innovative treatment for eating disorders” is available on 21 October 2024 in Psychedelics, offering readers an in-depth look at Dr. Knatz Peck's career, her insights on the current state of eating disorder treatment, and her vision for the future of mental health care. The article is freely available online at https://pp.genomicpress.com/aop/.

About Psychedelics. Psychedelics: The Journal of Psychedelic Pharmacology (ISSN: 2997-2671) is a peer-reviewed journal published by Genomic Press, New York. Psychedelics is exclusively dedicated to the latest advancements in the realm of psychedelic substances and their potential therapeutic uses. We embrace the full spectrum of research, from fundamental investigations to cutting-edge clinical studies. Psychedelics welcomes diverse perspectives and contributions, advancing the understanding of psychedelic compounds.