#12 - Leo Cabassa: Confronting Disparities to Provide World Class Healthcare for All

In this powerful episode of Life Beyond Loss, we sit down with Leo Cabassa, MSW, PhD, a Puerto Rican social worker and researcher who has dedicated his career to fighting health inequities in marginalized communities. As a key leader at Washington University's groundbreaking CHIRP (Center for Holistic Interdisciplinary Research and Psychedelics), Leo brings his expertise in implementation science and community-based care to ensure that revolutionary treatments like psychedelic-assisted therapy don't become another privilege for the wealthy. He shares his journey from creating innovative health education tools like fotonovelas for Latino communities to navigating the complex challenges of bringing cutting-edge mental health treatments to the people who need them most.

This episode is essential listening for healthcare providers, advocates, researchers, and anyone who believes that quality mental health care should be a right, not a privilege. Listeners will gain deep insights into the systemic barriers that keep marginalized communities from accessing life-changing treatments, learn practical strategies for making evidence-based interventions work in real-world settings, and understand how to bridge the gap between laboratory research and community healing. After listening, you'll be equipped with a framework for fighting health inequities in your own work and community, whether you're developing programs, advocating for policy change, or simply supporting those around you who are struggling with mental health challenges.