WHAT IS KETAMINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY?

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is the cutting edge treatment for many people who struggle with depression that have not found relief from traditional antidepressants and psychotherapy. Ketamine provides significant relief from treatment resistant depression for most people. The relief is, for many people, almost immediate, but can have short lived effects, so multiple doses are needed. With the right therapist and a commitment to the process, KAP is helping many people find relief from depression and regain their quality of life.

HOW DOES KETAMINE THERAPY WORK?

Ketamine acts on the GABA receptors of the brain, unlike the antidepressants most of us are familiar with that work on serotonin, nor-epinephrine, and dopamine receptors. Research has been finding that Ketamine can promote the growth of new neural connections in the brain, leading to a reduction in depressive symptoms. Ketamine can be effective in individuals who are taking anti-depressants.

THE PROCESS OF KETAMINE ASSISTED THERAPY

Ketamine Assisted Therapy starts out with an intensive treatment of six medicine sessions plus preparation and integration sessions throughout treatment. Research has found that having six ketamine sessions within 3-6 weeks is recommended for the greatest benefit, and then having booster doses once a week or every other week, and then to monthly boosters if needed. It is also important to receive ongoing psychotherapy sessions to accompany Ketamine administrations to gain the most benefit from symptoms relief and to provide the most longevity of symptom reduction. You and your therapist will work out the appropriate plan for your treatment. This is intense and deep healing work that can be metaphorically thought of as you might think of having a surgery and healing afterward.

HOW LONG DOES KETAMINE THERAPY LAST?

KAP involves six treatments within two to three weeks, then followed by booster doses one a week or every other week, and then monthly or as needed as determined by medical provider, therapist, and client. People generally feel a great deal of relief almost immediately, but successful treatment means symptoms are understood and mostly elevated. This takes some work from the client and therapist to facilitate the process of truly healing the symptoms at the root cause. Medicine is a tremendous helper and tool, but it is not magic, and the client still has to do the work of therapy for lasting results of changed neurochemistry.

INSIDE A KETAMINE THERAPY SESSION

In a Ketamine assisted therapy medicine session, the client reclines comfortably while listening to a therapeutic music play list and with eye shades over the eyes. A therapist will give you, the client, guidance and be with you throughout the medicine session. Sometimes you will work with the therapist with talking, and sometimes you will want to be quiet, while the therapist holds space for you, as you deepen into your internal experience and listen to the music. After the effects of the medicine begin to lessen, you and your therapist may talk some about your experience, and then you will need to have a ride home from your session and not drive for the rest of the day of your treatment. You will then follow up with sessions to integrate the material with your therapist.

FINDING THE RIGHT KETAMINE THERAPIST

It is essential to find the right therapist for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Look for someone who has experience and training in this modality. It is important to have a therapist who can help guide you through the process, provide support, and help you integrate the insights and experiences gained during the treatment.

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