AOC Spent $19K on a Psychiatrist Known for Ketamine Therapy
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) spent nearly $19,000 in campaign funds on a psychiatrist known for ketamine therapy, according to federal filings that are now drawing scrutiny over whether the spending was legal.
Records show her campaign paid Boston-based Dr. Brian Boyle $18,725 across multiple payments in 2025, with the expenses labeled as “leadership training and consulting.”
Boyle serves as chief psychiatric officer at Stella, a clinic that specializes in alternative mental health treatments, including ketamine therapy, which has grown in use for depression and PTSD but remains controversial due to its hallucinogenic effects and potential risks.
The campaign has not explained what services were provided or who participated in the sessions, leaving a key gap in understanding whether the spending qualifies as campaign-related.
Campaign finance law prohibits using campaign funds for personal expenses, and critics argue that paying a psychiatrist, particularly one focused on medical treatment, does not clearly fall under legitimate campaign activity.
Records show her campaign paid Boston-based Dr. Brian Boyle $18,725 across multiple payments in 2025, with the expenses labeled as “leadership training and consulting.”
Boyle serves as chief psychiatric officer at Stella, a clinic that specializes in alternative mental health treatments, including ketamine therapy, which has grown in use for depression and PTSD but remains controversial due to its hallucinogenic effects and potential risks.
The campaign has not explained what services were provided or who participated in the sessions, leaving a key gap in understanding whether the spending qualifies as campaign-related.
Campaign finance law prohibits using campaign funds for personal expenses, and critics argue that paying a psychiatrist, particularly one focused on medical treatment, does not clearly fall under legitimate campaign activity.
70-79, M
