Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?
KAP involves the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic drug, to help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The therapy will take place in-office with a mental health provider.
The method of delivery that we primarily use is a sublingual dose of ketamine which is similar to intravenous ketamine in terms of experience and overall effectiveness. It is important to note that while ketamine therapy can provide benefits for some individuals, it is not a first-line treatment for depression or other mental health conditions.
Benefits of KAP
Ketamine has been found to have rapid and potent antidepressant effects, which can be helpful for individuals who have not responded well to other treatments. Individuals may experience relief from their symptoms within hours or days of receiving treatment.
This is particularly important for individuals who are experiencing severe depression or suicidal thoughts and need immediate relief. Ketamine therapy may also improve cognitive function in some individuals. This can include increased focus and concentration, improved memory, and enhanced problem-solving skills.
What conditions does KAP treat?
- Treatment Resistant Depression
- Trauma
- Anxiety Disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Traumatic Brain Injury
What to expect from KAP
Before beginning KAP, patients will be medically evaluated and then screened for appropriateness of treatment. The patient and therapist will meet to set the intention and prepare for the experience. A sublingual dose of Ketamine will be given along with a comfortable reclining chair and face mask if so desired.
During the KAP session the patient may dissociate and experience altered states of reality. Ketamine has a rapid onset of about 15 to 20 minutes and treatment can last anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on how the individual processes the medication. It is not uncommon to feel groggy throughout the rest of the day.
How to prepare for your KAP appointment
Following the completion of your medical history, diet log and current symptoms through our EMR portal, patients must also include the previous two years of medical testing including diagnostic studies such as ultrasound, thermography, and bone scans if applicable. Your initial consultation will include an extensive history, including family history and physical examination.
Risks and benefits of Ketamine assisted psychotherapy will be discussed and whether the therapy is appropriate will be determined at this time. You'll work with Renew Integrative Health's mental health provider, Walter Homsey, to discuss the risks and benefits of Ketamine assisted psychotherapy to determine whether this type of therapy is appropriate for treatment.
Blog posts
Check out our latest post on Ketamine Assisted Therapy: Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression