Psychedelic therapy for mental health is no longer a fringe idea—it’s becoming a transformative tool for healing. And for Derek Du Chesne, it’s not just clinical. It’s deeply personal.
In this episode of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All, host Jamie Seeker interviews Derek, the co-founder and CEO of Better U, a mental wellness company offering at-home psychedelic-assisted therapy. This conversation uncovers Derek’s journey through depression, the life-changing impact of ketamine therapy, and how he built a company now serving thousands of people across 35 states.
🧠 A Mental Health Crisis Turned Catalyst
Derek’s career in cannabis and wellness was thriving. He was speaking at global conferences, managing millions in revenue, and living what looked like a dream life.
But in 2019, after personal betrayals and professional burnout, he hit emotional rock bottom. Traditional treatments weren’t working. He was suicidal—until a friend introduced him to ketamine therapy.
“I didn’t even recognize the person I was before that session. It reset me.”
This was the start of his journey into psychedelic therapy for mental health.
💡 How Better U Began
After witnessing the impact firsthand, Derek began studying with researchers at Stanford’s psychedelic science center. He realized how many others were suffering in silence—and how few knew this option existed.
He launched Better U with psychiatrist Dr. Sam Zand in 2021 with a clear mission:
Make psychedelic therapy for mental health more affordable, accessible, and supported.
“We dropped the cost from $1,000 to $100 per session and saw better outcomes at home.”
With the help of evolving telemedicine regulations during the pandemic, Better U began offering at-home ketamine therapy supported by licensed clinicians.
🧘♀️ A Holistic Mental Health Platform
Today, Better U is more than just ketamine sessions. It’s a full-spectrum mental health platform offering:
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Functional medicine
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Sexual health support
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Weight loss programs
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Psychiatric care
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Coaching, breathwork & meditation
“There’s no pill that replaces sunshine, connection, and movement. We offer multiple tools for healing.”
This holistic model is designed to give people choice, support, and personalized care.
🔗 Want to hear more founder stories? Check out our other podcast episodes.
🚀 What It Really Takes to Build a Company That Makes a Difference
When asked what it takes to build something that matters, Derek shared:
“Relentless commitment to the mission—and to your own self-love and mental health.”
He emphasizes that building impact-driven businesses requires personal resilience, focus, and a true why to keep going through setbacks.
🔊 Listen to the Episode
🎧 Psychedelic Therapy for Mental Health: Derek Du Chesne’s Story & Better U’s Mission
Want to hear how others are transforming their pain into purpose?
Explore more episodes of What It Takes: Business Owners Tell All.
🌱 Final Thoughts
Derek’s story is a reminder that the future of mental health may not lie in more prescriptions—but in better options, deeper care, and a willingness to innovate.
If you or someone you love is struggling, visit Better U for a free consultation. It might be the reset you’ve been searching for.
