Eliza Dushku’s Latest Endeavors: Buffy the Vampire Slayer Star Today
Eliza Dushku, known for her iconic roles in series like *Buffy the Vampire Slayer*, has embarked on a transformative journey since her retirement from acting in 2017. Dushku, who gained fame as Faith in *Buffy* and Missy in *Bring It On*, began her career unexpectedly at the age of nine in Boston. Her first role came in the 1992 film *That Night*, which led to numerous successful collaborations with A-list stars.
From Acting to Advocacy
After spending 25 years in the entertainment industry, Dushku has stepped away from acting and hacia her passion for mental health. She is now a clinical mental health counselor focusing on addiction, recovery, and trauma. Dushku earned her master’s degree from Lesley University and received certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy.
Personal Healing and Professional Shift
- Retired from acting in 2017
- Graduated from Lesley University with a master’s degree in May 2023
- Certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy from a California university
The shift came after Dushku confronted past trauma, including experiences during the #MeToo movement. In 2018, she engaged in therapeutic sessions using MDMA and psilocybin, which profoundly altered her perspective on her life’s purpose.
“I connected to the awareness that I was not living my highest purpose,” she stated about her pivotal moments. This realization led her back to Boston, where she now works with veterans at Home Base, a program developed in collaboration with Massachusetts General Hospital and the Red Sox Foundation.
In Waves and War: A New Documentary
Dushku is also serving as an executive producer for a new Netflix documentary titled *In Waves and War*, which highlights the experiences of Navy SEALs coping with the effects of war through psychedelic therapy. The film aims to shed light on the healing potential of such treatments.
Advocacy for Psychedelic Therapy
According to Dushku, psychedelic therapy should be an available option for those in need, especially veterans dealing with mental health challenges. She emphasizes the importance of reconceptualizing healing methods in society today. “This movie beautifully combines what psychedelic therapy is and what it isn’t, seen through the perspectives of the veterans themselves,” she remarked.
Eliza Dushku’s Future Aspirations
Dushku is not closing the door on further education. She plans to pursue a doctorate degree focused on psychedelic therapies. “I would love to be part of ongoing research and learn how we can integrate ancient wisdom with modern practices,” she noted.
Her journey reflects a deep commitment to mental health awareness, driven by personal transformation and a desire to help others heal. As Dushku articulates her mission, she hopes to inspire a broader recognition of the potential benefits of psychedelic therapy in contemporary medical and therapeutic practices.
