Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is type of psychotherapy that combines elements of traditional talk therapy with the benefits of Ketamine. In a therapeutic setting, Ketamine can help minimize anxious, depressive, and other challenging feelings, allowing for a deep inward journey. Many people who have undergone these journeys describe combinations of the following experiences: a dream-like state with imagery that holds important meanings, the ability to access then release emotions like grief or anger that have held them back in life, messages of wisdom and guidance from deeper parts of the psyche, and a greater sense of connectedness with other people and with nature.
KAP encompasses both the session(s) in which ketamine is taken, as well as sessions preparing for the experience beforehand and processing it afterwards.
Neurologically, Ketamine works by blocking the brain’s NMDA receptors as well as by stimulating AMPA receptors, which are thought to help form new synaptic connections and boost neural circuits that regulate stress and mood. Ketamine has also been shown to enhance overall neuroplasticity, making it easier to adopt more fulfilling perspectives and behaviors.
If you are interested, please reach out for further details.
Tragic incidents of recreational Ketamine use understandably may lead to concern for safety. However, Ketamine is a legalized medicine and, when used therapeutically, procedures are in place to prioritize safety. A thorough health screening is conducted by an MD to advise whether candidates have any health issues or medications would lead to risks. Then, the therapy sessions in which Ketamine is used are conducted with constant supervision from myself–a licensed psychologist–in a comfortable therapy office.
I collaborate with with Isha Health, a team of doctors who partner with clinicians to provide responsible Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. You would be screened by a specialist from the Isha Health Medical Team. If it is safe to proceed, they would prescribe Ketamine for you to bring to the dosing sessions. The Medical Team also provides follow-up check-ins as your Ketamine journey progresses.
The session(s) in which you take ketamine is scheduled for three hours. This gives us time to review your intentions. Then you would take the medicine. If you are comfortable with it, you will wear eyeshades, listen to music, lay down, and settle into your journey. Some people primarily stay inward throughout the session while others pause to share or talk through what is happening. There will be time at the end to debrief and prepare to transition back into your day.
Yes, this is certainly a route we can take. We can begin traditional talk therapy and consider adding KAP sessions down the road.
This depends on your goals. There would be at least a few sessions of preparatory work (setting intentions, reviewing procedures) before and active session, then at least a session or two after to make sense of what came to you through the medicine.
A potential course of treatment may look as follows:
Below are additional readings. I am also happy to talk with you about any questions you have.
Overview:
An Introduction to Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Wendy Boring-Bray, Psychology Today
First-Person Experience:
One Woman’s Journey with Ketamine Therapy, Kathy Cassata, Very Well Mind
Spiritual Exploration:
How Seeing God Might Be The Secret To The Most Cutting-Edge Mental Health Treatments, Will Yakowicz, Forbes