Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is a therapeutic modality that combines the use of the drug ketamine with psychotherapy. Ketamine is a medication primarily used for starting and maintaining anesthesia, but in smaller doses it can produce a psychedelic or psycholytic experience and support significant and lasting benefits for mental health. Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that can produce hallucinations/psychedelic effects. One KAP session involves an evaluation, prep session(s), the in-office ketamine session, and an integration session. This typically feels like a disconnection from your body/thoughts and feelings. This allows you to drop in deeper during a therapy session and let your guard down, which results in accelerated healing. This can lead you to feel more connected with yourself, others, nature, and spirituality. Some people need one KAP session, and some need 6-10 sessions. This will be determined between you and your provider. 

Ketamine works by blocking a specific receptor in the brain called the NMDA receptor. This blockage initiates several downstream effects, ultimately leading to an increase in the growth of new neural connections, which can help alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders. 

Following a ketamine journey, patients experience a period of greater synaptic activity in the brain, which results in increased neuroplasticity, enhancing the brain’s ability to change and adapt. This is called the “neuroplastic window.” The earliest effects of neuroplasticity can begin at approximately 24 hours, peaking at 72 hours, and lasting up to 3 weeks after treatment.

The psychotherapy component of KAP provides a supportive environment for individuals to explore and make sense of the experiences and insights that may arise during the ketamine sessions. Ketamine can help catalyze more rapid changes and progress in therapeutic treatment, allowing people to access shifts in perspective that may be otherwise difficult to achieve. Because of the neuroplastic window, psychotherapy is particularly effective when conducted within a few days following treatment. This opportunity allows clients to integrate experiences from their ketamine journey and build new, healthier practices that lead to significant changes and improvements in mental health. 

KAP has been used to treat a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as certain types of chronic pain. However, it’s important to note that while KAP can be a powerful tool, it is not a cure-all and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

The potential benefits of KAP include rapid symptom relief, increased self-awareness, and improved mood. However, like all treatments, KAP also carries potential risks. These include temporary side effects like increased blood pressure, nausea, dizziness, and changes in perception. It’s also important to note that ketamine can be habit-forming, so it should only be used under the supervision of a trained professional.

A typical KAP session lasts between 2 to 3 hours. This includes time for the ketamine journey, which usually lasts about 40-60 minutes, as well as time for preparation, integration, and discussion with the therapist after the journey.

Intravenous (IV) Ketamine Therapy is a medical treatment that delivers ketamine directly into the bloodstream through an IV drip. It is primarily used to provide rapid relief from severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. 

Unlike Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), IV ketamine is administered in a clinical setting without concurrent therapy. It works by promoting neuroplasticity and regulating mood, often benefiting individuals with treatment-resistant mental health conditions.

During a KAP session, you will be in a comfortable, safe environment under the supervision of a trained professional. After the ketamine is administered, you may experience changes in your perception, thoughts, and feelings. Your therapist will be there to support you throughout this process.

A qualified KAP provider should have training in both psychotherapy and the practice of ketamine-assisted therapy. They should also be knowledgeable about the specific mental health conditions they treat and be able to provide a safe, supportive environment for their clients. KAP therapists typically collaborate with medical providers who perform an evaluation to ensure the treatment is appropriate and prescribe ketamine for the sessions. 

KAP is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled high blood pressure or a history of substance misuse, may not be good candidates for KAP. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment.

Yes, KAP can be used in conjunction with other treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and medication management. It’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.

Preparation for a KAP session may involve fasting for a certain period before the session, avoiding certain medications or substances, and coming prepared to discuss your feelings and experiences. Meeting with your therapist for a period of time prior to beginning KAP can help you explore your treatment goals, intentions for your journeys, and questions you may have before getting started. Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions based on your health history and the specifics of your treatment plan.

After a KAP session, you may feel tired or disoriented. It’s important to arrange for a ride home and to take it easy for the rest of the day. Some people report changes in their perceptions or emotions in the days following a session. Your healthcare provider will provide guidance on what to expect and how to care for yourself after a session.