In this in-depth archival conversation from The Soul of Life, Keith Miller speaks with Bessel van der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, about how the modern mental-health system misunderstands trauma—and why that misunderstanding matters.

Van der Kolk reflects on the original creation of the PTSD diagnosis, why the term "trauma" has become dangerously imprecise, and how psychiatric labels like narcissism or borderline personality disorder can interfere with genuine human connection.

He shares his sharp critique of the DSM, the insurance-driven logic behind diagnosis, and why clinicians must learn to see the whole person—not just symptoms.

The conversation also explores emerging and often misunderstood treatments, including MDMA-assisted therapy, psychedelics, and neurofeedback, along with a powerful reflection on the late Rich Simon and the limits of any single "miracle cure."

✨ If you enjoyed this archive episode, check out Keith's new podcast Tripping Over Love, now on YouTube, Apple, Spotify, and Substack.

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