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In this episode, I explore mold-related illness, with a particular focus on mold toxicity and mold colonization.
I discuss:
In the next episode, I’ll review research exploring the connection between mold and brain-related conditions, and address the question: “Can mold enter the brain, even in individuals who are not immunocompromised?” It’s important to recognize that mold toxicity rarely occurs in isolation. It often contributes to or exacerbates other underlying conditions, such as mast cell activation, electromagnetic hypersensitivity, multiple chemical sensitivity, pyrrole disorder, copper–zinc imbalance, low methylation, and increased susceptibility to microbial infections or autoimmunity. As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney
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In this episode, I take a closer look at compulsive caregiving through the lens of attachment theory. This subtle yet pervasive form of insecure attachment can significantly impact one’s ability to thrive and build healthy, balanced relationships. Related terms often used to describe this pattern include over-functioning, codependency, and what’s sometimes called Nice Guy / Good Girl Syndrome.
This episode is the fourth in a four-part series exploring how our earliest caregiver experiences during the first three years of life shape our emotional regulation, self-beliefs, and the ways we connect with others as adults. Here, I discuss:
Links to related content: Codependency, Compulsive Caregiving, Over-functioning & Nice Guy/Good Girl Syndrome As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney
Dr. William Walsh, president of the non-profit Walsh Research Institute, is an internationally recognized leader in the field of nutritional medicine and nutrient-based psychiatry. His pioneering work began in collaboration with the renowned Carl C. Pfeiffer, MD, PhD — a foundational figure in nutritional psychiatry — developing individualized nutrient protocols. Their early research focused on violent and criminal behavior before expanding into broader areas such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, and schizophrenia.
Over the course of his career, Dr. Walsh has studied more than 30,000 patients with various mental health conditions, compiling an unparalleled database of over 3 million chemical assays. From this groundbreaking research, he identified the biotypes of depression, ADHD, and schizophrenia, providing a new framework for understanding and treating these disorders through a biochemical lens. Dr. Walsh’s research also extends beyond clinical psychiatry. He has conducted chemical analyses of more than 25 serial killers, collaborated with medical examiners, Scotland Yard, and the FBI, and designed nutritional programs for Olympic and professional athletes. In this episode, we discuss:
Links to related content: Wash Research Institute Lunch with Dr. William Walsh - His Story, Discoveries & the Future of Nutrient-Based Psychiatry Breakthrough Theory of Bipolar Disorder As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney
Emotional Dysregulation, Fears of Abandonment. Assessment & Tool for Moving Toward a Secure Attachment.
In this episode, I explore the anxious (ambivalent–preoccupied) attachment style — a relational pattern often marked by emotional intensity, dependence, and a deep longing for reassurance and connection. I discuss how this attachment pattern forms, how it shows up in adult relationships, and what kinds of therapeutic and holistic approaches can help individuals move toward a more secure attachment style. Specifically, I cover:
With awareness, compassion, education, and consistent support, we can begin to rewire the nervous system for greater calm, clarity, and self-trust — moving closer to a more secure way of relating to ourselves and others. As always, I welcome your thoughts and questions. Until next time, Courtney
What do Don Draper (Mad Men), James Bond, Miranda Priestly (The Devil Wears Prada), and Rick Blaine (Casablanca) all have in common? Each of these characters is a clear example of the avoidant-dismissive attachment style brought to life on screen.
In the previous episode, I explored how our earliest caregiving experiences-especially in the first three years of life-can profoundly shape our ability to regulate emotions and form core beliefs about ourselves and others. I also highlighted how attachment influences neurophysiology, including right-left brain differentiation, the limbic system (often called the "lizard brain"), and the autonomic nervous system. In this episode, I turn the focus more specifically to one end of the attachment spectrum-the avoidant-dismissive attachment style. I'll discuss:
As a holistic psychiatrist who has treated many children and adults with attachment-related conditions, I believe that growth is always possible. While avoidant attachment may take root early in life, it does not define a person forever. With curiosity, self-compassion, and the willingness to practice new ways of relating to ourselves and to others-we can expand our capacity for intimacy and connection, and begin to feel more whole. In the next episode, I'll shift to the other side of the attachment spectrum: the anxious-ambivalent (preoccupied) attachment style. As always, I welcome your comments and questions-they help guide the topics and resources I share. Until next time, Courtney Links to related content: Methylation & Brain Health Undermethylation Myths, MTHFR & The Great Folate Debate
The impact of our early attachment experience on the development of our limbic system, autonomic nervous system, and right and left brain differentiation.
Lately, I’ve been reflecting on the growing use of the term “dysregulated.” It’s a powerful word that captures what happens when we struggle to find calm in the body and brain after facing stress. When we talk about nervous system regulation, it’s easy to forget that its foundation is mostly laid down in the earliest years of life. Even though we don’t consciously remember those first experiences, they continue to shape our patterns and responses well into adulthood. The encouraging part is this: even if our early attachment experiences weren’t ideal, it’s absolutely possible to move toward greater attachment security. This shift allows us to experience healthier emotional regulation, more positive beliefs about ourselves and others, and stronger, more connected relationships. In this episode, I explore:
For me, this conversation is never about placing blame on parents- it’s about understanding the deep influence of those early years, which are arguably the most important time in our lives. It’s also a reminder that it’s never too late to become a more responsive and compassionate caregiver to ourselves. If you have a specific situation, concern or question that you would like me to react to in a future newsletter/episode, please email that to [email protected]. Names will never be shared. Until next time, Courtney Lately, I’ve been reflecting on how much the fragmentation within modern medicine limits our ability to truly understand the root of illness. This episode is for anyone who’s visited multiple specialists for a range of symptoms and still doesn’t feel well, or for anyone curious about how seemingly disconnected health issues might actually be related. In this episode, I explore: - A letter from someone experiencing a wide array of symptoms who has consulted numerous specialists but still hasn’t found answers or real progress toward healing - How conventional medicine has splintered into more than 130 specialties and the consequences this has on diagnosis and care - The historical and current divide between psychiatry and neurology, even though both focus on the brain and nervous system - Why I find the term “mental illness” limiting and prefer to use the language of brain symptoms - A broader view of symptoms often labeled as psychiatric, including emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and sensory experiences, and how these can signal deeper physiological imbalances - An overview of neurotransmitters: what they are, what affects their levels, and how disruptions in these chemicals often lie at the heart of both psychiatric and neurological issues - A vision for a more integrative and connected approach to healthcare in the future If there’s a particular topic or personal concern you’d like me to cover in an upcoming episode or newsletter, feel free to email it to [email protected] Until next time, Courtney 
Kayaking one morning near my house.
I hope this summer is bringing you moments of peace and joy. Over the past few months, I’ve stepped back from writing and teaching to support my aging parents, now in their late 80s, while continuing to maintain my clinical practice, offer consultations, and mentor others. It’s been a powerful reminder that we can’t always do everything at once. If you’re balancing caregiving, managing your own health, working, and still trying to nurture your creative or professional passions, I see you. I’m right there with you. For me, one enduring passion is sharing thoughtful, useful insights about mental health and psychiatry here.
Much of what I’ve shared so far focuses on how I approach mental health care in my practice. Today, I want to zoom out and reflect on the larger landscape of psychiatry and its shifting forms. In this episode, I explore:
I also share why the term Holistic Psychiatry resonates with me most—it's a warmer, more inclusive approach to mental health that reflects the kind of care I strive to offer. Thank you for continuing to be part of this journey. Your interest and engagement mean the world. Warmly, Courtney 
Dr. William Walsh's Comprehensive Theory (Explaining the Cause of Bipolar, the Reason For Switching From Mania to Depression & Treatment Implications) Shared at the Society of Neuroscience
This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Advanced Course for Walsh-Trained Practitioners. Over 1,200 practitioners from 75 countries have been trained in the Walsh approach. For those unfamiliar, the Walsh Research Institute, founded by Dr. William Walsh, has analyzed the nutrient levels of more than 30,000 individuals experiencing brain-related symptoms. Their findings reveal a surprisingly small set of recurring nutrient imbalances—such as low zinc, elevated copper, high pyrroles, and methylation irregularities—that frequently appear. Addressing these imbalances has led to significant, and sometimes dramatic, improvements in individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, panic, obsessions, compulsions, inattention, brain fog, hyperactivity, autism, dementia, psychosis, and mood swings. However, bipolar disorder presents a unique challenge due to its alternating neurotransmitter states between mania and depression. More than nine million Americans are currently diagnosed with bipolar disorder, a serious condition often associated with substance abuse, financial or legal difficulties, strained relationships, instability at work or school, and an increased risk of suicide attempts or suicide. The course of the illness typically begins with an acute onset, progressing to recurrent episodes of mania and depression that often worsen in severity over time. In this post, I will describe bipolar disorder and use Dr. Walsh’s Comprehensive Theory of Bipolar Disorder—recently presented at the Society for Neuroscience—to explain:
Attachment, Microbiome, Undermethylation, Low Zinc, Oxidative Stress, Mold Toxicity, Mast Cell Activation, RCCX Theory, Upper Cervical Instability, Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity, Left & Right Brain
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” ― Lao Tzu In this episode, I share my personal journey through illness and healing and how it has influenced my approach as a holistic psychiatrist. My hope for everyone listening is that your pursuit of health, happiness, or whatever it is you’re seeking brings you to a place of peace—and inspires a desire to support others on their own journeys. 
Data, Contributing Factors, Undermethylation, When Strengths Relate to Vulnerabilities, Self Reliance, a Medical Culture That Keeps Physicians From Seeking Help & What Can Be Done
It’s easy to overlook that medical professionals are vulnerable to stress, burnout, and both physical and mental health issues. Despite the expectation that they remain well, physicians experience higher rates of depression, and the rate of physician suicide is twice that of the general population. In this newsletter, I’ll explore how biochemical and environmental factors play a role in both the strengths and vulnerabilities of doctors. While the focus is on physicians, much of what I’ll discuss also applies to other medical professionals and caregivers.
Key topics include:
Why Love is Not Enough, Cultural Differences, Nazi Parenting Manual, Cycle of Abuse, Narcissistic Family Dynamic, Family Stress, Poor Quality Day Care, Screen Media
By Courtney Snyder, MD In a recent newsletter, I explored how our early attachment experiences—particularly those within our first three years—shape our autonomic nervous system, stress responses, sense of self-worth, expectations of others, and worldview. While we may not consciously “remember” these early years, the experiences of our infant and toddler selves live on in our neurophysiology. They influence how we handle stress, regulate emotions, connect with others, and perceive ourselves.
Our culture often frames early life experiences in simplistic terms: either all good or all bad. We tend to think, "We were either abused, raised in an institution or foster care, or we weren't. Our parents either loved us or they didn't."
In this newsletter, I’ll delve deeper into:
Around 25% of people may be susceptible to mold toxicity, a surprisingly prevalent cause of various brain symptoms, such as brain fog, fatigue, depression, anxiety, mood swings, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic, and even psychosis. Mold toxicity can also be a hidden factor in conditions like pyrrole disorder, candida overgrowth, and copper-zinc imbalances, all of which can contribute to neurological and psychiatric symptoms.
Mold toxicity should be considered a potential cause when college students develop new mental health issues after being exposed to mold in their dorms or apartments. It can also lead to various chronic physical health problems, including autoimmune conditions. Based on my experience, mold toxicity is the most frequent cause of mast cell activation syndrome.
Jerry Parker, a Certified Indoor Environmental Consultant (CIEC) and Certified Microbial Remediator (CMR), has been a great resource to me both personally and professionally, providing valuable insights into the environmental factors related to mold. He owns Environmental Solutions Group, LLC, a company that has been serving residential and commercial clients for over 20 years. Jerry is now preparing to launch a new educational and consulting platform, 4 Indoor Air Quality LLC.
In this newsletter and video podcast, Jerry and I explore:
In a future episode, Jerry and I will delve into mold prevention with a specific focus on the interior of our homes. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
The Zinc Link, Skin Symptoms of Common "Roots" of Brain Symptoms, Acne Treatment & Thinking Holistically. Skin conditions are frequently observed in individuals with brain-related disorders. Most discussions about this connection suggest that one condition might cause the other. For example, it is commonly believed that the stress of dealing with a skin condition can lead to depression and anxiety — a logical conclusion. Conversely, the stress of a mental health condition may elevate stress hormones or cause inflammation, resulting in skin symptoms, which also makes sense. In this podcast, I will explore the idea that skin and brain symptoms often share common underlying causes — with one key root in particular. By "brain symptoms," I mean conditions like depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), brain fog, inattention, hyperactivity, mood swings, psychosis, and cognitive decline.
I will cover:
This episode aims to shed light on how these interrelated factors contribute to both skin and brain symptoms, helping you better understand the importance of identifying and addressing the common roots.
Understanding Smart Meters and EMF Exposure: Insights from Eric Windheim
Eric Windheim, BA, BBEC, EMRS, RFSO, is a Certified Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist and Building Biology Environmental Consultant. As the founder of Windheim Solutions, he specializes in inspecting, testing, and remediating harmful electromagnetic fields (EMFs). In this episode, we explore the topic of smart meters—digital devices that measure real-time electricity usage and wirelessly transmit this data to utility companies. Smart meters are also sometimes used for gas and water monitoring.
Smart meters primarily emit radio frequencies, one of the four harmful types of electromagnetic fields, alongside electric fields, magnetic fields, and dirty electricity. EMF exposure has been linked to a variety of brain symptoms, such as insomnia, memory issues, irritability, depression, personality changes, inattention, fatigue, confusion, headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, numbness, and tingling.
Problematic EMFs impact the brain in multiple ways, contributing to oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, immune system disruption, hormonal imbalances, microbiome disturbances, and compromising the blood-brain barrier. EMFs can even elevate blood sugar levels. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to reduce exposure. In this newsletter: Eric shares:
We discuss:
From the Walsh Research Institute’s original data.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
A Conversation About High Copper, Low Zinc, Pyrrole Disorder & Methylation Imbalances - Symptoms, Traits, Testing & Treatment I recently had the pleasure of joining Annika Taylor, a holistic health practitioner, on the Nourished By Nature: Mind Body Wellness Podcast. After sharing my journey into holistic psychiatry and defining what it means, Annika and I explored the following topics:
We also discussed a recent finding by Dr. Walsh that undermethylation is on the rise in the population, while overmethylation appears to be decreasing. Related Resources: Annika Taylor - nourishedbynature.com Walsh Research Institute For links to specific topics address see links in the description above. 
By Courtney Snyder, MD
This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In this newsletter and podcast episode, I focus on the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s. Because this condition starts prior to the onset of symptoms, and because having almost any psychiatric condition appears to raise our vulnerability, many of the tools mentioned relate to other brain symptoms and conditions as well. “What we call Alzheimer's disease is actually a protective response to a wide variety of insults to the brain: inflammation, insulin resistance, toxins, infections, and inadequate levels of nutrients, hormones, and growth factors.” - Dale Bredesen, MD (The End of Alzheimer’s Program: The First Protocol to Enhance Cognition and Reverse Decline at Any Age)
In this newsletter, I’ll discuss:
Resources mentioned:
By Courtney Snyder, MD
Protecting Our Brain Early Starting With Understanding the Role of Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, Insulin Resistance, a Potential Microbial Presence & APOe4 Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that involves the gradual death of brain cells, leading to the loss of brain tissue. The changes in the brain that lead to Alzheimer’s dementia can start up to 20 years before symptoms appear. This is crucial because emerging research and clinical experience in functional medicine suggest that many of the contributing factors can be influenced before symptoms progress. In this newsletter and podcast episode, I’ll explore:
In the next episode, I’ll delve into mainstream treatments and explore functional, integrative, and holistic approaches that target blood sugar regulation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and even mold and candida as potential contributors. Mentioned Resources: Other Related Newsletters: Medical Disclaimer: This newsletter is for educational purposes and not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating (if you are a practitioner). Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. 
The many underlying and overlapping factors are considered in functional medicine.
By Courtney Snyder, MD
The Benefits, Risks, and How to Improve Functional Medicine. What is Functional Medicine? Functional Medicine is an integrative, biology-based approach that promotes healing and wellness by focusing on the biochemically unique aspects of each patient, utilizing individually tailored interventions to restore balance. This approach seeks to understand the fundamental physiological processes, environmental factors, and genetic predispositions that affect health and disease, addressing the root causes. In Functional Medicine Psychiatry, these interventions aim to promote healing and wellness for individuals experiencing brain-related symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, fatigue, brain fog, hyperactivity, cognitive impairment, social communication deficits, and psychosis.
In this Newsletter, I’ll explore:
By Courtney Snyder, MD
If you’re like I was, you might feel both drawn to and resistant to starting a meditation practice. My many attempts to begin and then stop were less about meditation itself and more about not prioritizing self-care. For many of us, learning to sit still in silence—and often in solitude—can be challenging. Our minds may chatter nonstop about things we’d rather not confront: the to-do lists, worries, ruminations, irritations, regrets, "should haves" and "shouldn't haves," "what ifs," things we said or did, things others said or did, judgments, and even judgments about those judgments. Our attachment to how we believe things should be is a significant part of our suffering.
All forms of meditation aim to guide our minds (and bodies) away from day-to-day thoughts and into the present moment. Since the sights and sounds around us often distract our minds, most meditation practices involve removing these stimuli by sitting in a quiet place with our eyes closed.
Even in a quiet setting, the mind will wander, especially in the beginning. This is why many meditation practices encourage us to focus on something—like our breath, a phrase, or an image. The goal is to gently bring our attention back to this anchor whenever we notice the mind drifting. If you’re interested in starting a meditation practice, don’t let the variety of options make you think there is a "best" or "right" way to meditate. The best meditation practice is the one that makes you think, “Okay, I could see myself doing that.” The right way is simply to begin. The common thread in all meditation practices is learning to be present. To do this, we use something to anchor us in the moment. What differentiates various types of meditation is simply the anchor that is chosen. |
Courtney Snyder, MDFor anyone experiencing brain symptoms. This blog (and weekly newsletter) is your guide to demystifying root causes and learning about surprising paths to healing. From a holistic - functional adult and child psychiatrist dedicated to helping people heal and thrive. Categories
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