From Prozac to Psychedelics: The Science Behind Mental Health Treatments
Explore the development of medications used to treat mental health disorders and how they interact with the brain to help restore balance in mood and thinking. Learn from a research scientist how new treatments are tested and refined through discoveries in neuroscience and genetics, and delve into the research behind the growing interest in “magic mushrooms” and other psychedelics for therapeutic use. No scientific background is required—just curiosity about how modern medicine supports mental well-being.
Yael Mandelblat-Cerf
Yael Mandelblat-Cerf received her PhD in Neuroscience from the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. She then pursued postdoctoral training at MIT and Harvard Medical School. Following 10 years in Boston's pharma industry, she joined the federal workforce to support basic research and therapeutic development at the National Institute of Mental Health.
Yael’s interest in neuroscience was ignited by a talk she heard at age 15. She is excited to share this field with others, particularly its relevance to mental health, as so many people face challenges today.
Yael has lived in Arlington for the last six years.
Prozac to Psychedelics
Instructors:
- Yael Mandelblat-Cerf
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tue, May 5th 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM | Arlington High School |
| Tue, May 12th 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM | Arlington High School |
| Tue, May 19th 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM | Arlington High School |
| Tue, May 26th 2026 | 6:00 - 7:30 PM | Arlington High School |