Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is an emerging therapeutic approach that harnesses the dissociative properties of ketamine to facilitate psychological healing and growth. Initially developed as an anesthetic, ketamine has found a new purpose in mental health treatment, offering hope for those who struggle with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) integrates the pharmacological effects of ketamine with traditional psychotherapy techniques. During a KAP session, a patient receives a controlled dose of ketamine, which induces a state of altered consciousness. This altered state can enhance the therapeutic process, making it easier for patients to access and process difficult emotions and experiences.

The Science Behind Ketamine

Ketamine primarily acts on the NMDA receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating mood and perception. By modulating these receptors, ketamine can rapidly alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, sometimes within hours. This is a stark contrast to traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to become effective.

Benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy

Rapid Relief from Depression

One of the most significant benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is its rapid action.

Enhanced Emotional Processing

Ketamine’s dissociative effects can help patients detach from their usual thought patterns and view their problems from a new perspective. This can facilitate breakthroughs in therapy and allow for deeper emotional processing.

Treatment-Resistant Conditions

KAP has shown promise for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions, such as chronic depression and PTSD. For these patients, traditional therapies and medications have often failed to provide relief, making KAP a valuable alternative.

Eligibility Criteria

KAP has been shown to be a highly effective supplement to regular therapy. Candidates with active suicidal ideation must already be working with a psychotherapist and have a safety plan in place.
KAP is contraindicated for individuals who are pregnant or nursing
KAP is contraindicated for individuals who have poorly controlled or untreated hypertension, cardiovascular problems, hyperthyroidism, severe sleep apnea or respiratory disease
KAP is contraindicated for individuals who have a BMI of >30
KAP is contraindicated for individuals who a history or seizures / epilepsy
KAP is contraindicated for individuals who have Parkinson’s
KAP is contraindicated for individuals that have had a recent traumatic brain injury (TBI)
KAP is not a good choice for individuals who have active mania, are hypomanic, have a history psychotic episodes, or have been diagnosed with schizophrenia
KAP is not a good choice for individuals who are allergic to ketamine
If you have been diagnosed with a dissociative disorder, personality disorder or a panic disorder: KAP may not be a helpful option for you depending on the severity of symptoms. You will be required to complete an additional assessment and close collaboration and recommendation from your therapist and psychiatrist is required.

How Typical Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Sessions Work

Consultation:

I will get a sense of your therapeutic goals, needs, expectations, current coping resources, answer any questions you may have, and collaborate and obtain additional information for your current psychotherapist. You will complete a brief pre-screening to determine eligibility.

Intake & Assessment:

Before a KAP session, clients will undergo a thorough medical evaluation and psychological assessment to determine their suitability for the treatment. This includes a review of their medical history, current medications, and psychological status.

Preparation Sessions:

Preparation therapy sessions are an essential component of the KAP therapeutic process. They help individuals mentally and emotionally prepare for the profound experiences facilitated by ketamine. This preparation is crucial for maximizing the therapeutic benefits and ensuring a safe and meaningful journey. Mental preparation involves mindfulness practices, meditation, and setting intentions. It also includes addressing any fears or anxieties about the upcoming experience.