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Ketamine was approved by the FDA several decades ago to be used as anesthesia due to it's dissociative effects. Some patients given ketamine as anesthesia began to report experiencing psychedelic experiences. Psychedelic experiences have been utilized in various rituals and traditions across the world to assist individuals in finding healing and wholeness. As a result, researchers began exploring the use of ketamine as a therapeutic intervention which confirmed that ketamine, in sub-anesthetic doses, can assist in the treatment of mental health conditions such as: depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, and a deeper connection with oneself and others. Ketamine is often utilized when other treatment approaches have been unsuccessful. Research suggests that ketamine promotes neuroplasticity, which is the growth of new neural connections. These neural networks may have been previously damaged via chronic stress and/or trauma. Neuroplasticity aids in the ability to learn new things and improve cognitive functioning.

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Put simply, ketamine can assist in letting down ego defenses that often act as a barrier in traditional talk therapy allowing for deeper processing and intimacy with oneself and others. Neuroplasticity helps kick start new habits and re-organize thought patterns, changing the way you respond to depression, anxiety, and trauma. That being said, ketamine is not a magic bullet. Intentional preparation prior to ketamine sessions and integration work post ketamine sessions are essential to successful treatment. 

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Prior to a ketamine session we will work together to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship, intentions for your journey (ketamine experience) and appropriate grounding techniques. Ketamine journeys often lead to strong feelings of peace and connection, however, it is not uncommon for clients to experience an out of body experience or challenging new insights. For this reason appropriate prep work is essential. During your journey, you will be monitored in a safe therapeutic setting. Many people describe the journey as mystical or spiritual experience, as innate knowings often arise. Afterwards, we will begin the psychedelic integration work to explore all insights gained. 

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Psychedelic Integration is a fundamental component to ketamine assisted therapy and is also an option for those coming into therapy with past psychedelic experiences. These sessions are designed to provide a safe and supportive space for clients to explore symbolism and insights gained from their experience in order to recontextualize and create a sense of wholeness.

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Ketamine for mental health conditions is currently considered off-label use and is not covered by insurance. Sessions are tailored to each client's particular needs and vary in length. All ketamine sessions are in person at an hourly rate of $160. Retreat style group sessions are available upon request.

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FAQ’s

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How is ketamine administered?

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A lozenger is self administered under the tongue. As the lozenger dissolves, you will hold the solution in your mouth for 12-15 minutes. Ketamine is absorbed through the oral mucosa-lining of your mouth. Intramuscular injections are also an option, for an additional cost due to being administered by a nurse.

 

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How quickly will I experience the effects of ketamine?

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Ketamine has a relatively rapid onset once taken. It generally takes about 10-15 minutes to begin feeling the effects, which then subside after 45-90 minutes. The length of ketamine sessions varies from person to person and from experience to experience.  

 

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What am I going to experience during my trip/journey?

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A: Clients often report experiencing a sense of relaxation and openness. They often find that internal barriers, ego defenses, and resistances to challenging topics are reduced or absent, allowing space to reflect on past experiences and emotions from a new perspective. They also find insight and awareness related to current life stressors. Repressed memories may arise. Grief, anger, or trauma that has been experienced may present itself for processing. Psychedelic effects include entering a non-ordinary “altered” state of consciousness. Such states of consciousness may facilitate profound transpersonal (mystical, spiritual, religious) experiences that may prove to be helpful in resolving existential concerns, accelerating psycho-spiritual growth, and leading to a deep personal transformation. You may feel as though you are leaving your ordinary mind or even your body. You may see various visualizations or experience other hallucinations.

 

What if I have a “bad trip”?

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Difficult experiences with psychedelics aka “bad trips” typically occur in uncontrolled settings, without adequate support and/or the correct dosage. This is why we will spend as much time as is needed to develop a trusting therapeutic relationship and proper prep work. If you do begin to experience difficulties, I will be there to offer emotional support, grounding techniques, etc.

 

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What does set and setting mean?

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Set is associated with the mindset you bring to the KAP session. An ideal mindset is tailored through the prep work we will engage in during sessions leading up to your KAP session, including but not limited to: developing grounding techniques, reviewing/managing expectations, intention setting, and exploring ceremonial aspects you may want to incorporate. Setting refers to the physical space you are in for the KAP session. In my office, you will have access to a comfortable space including a couch, blanket, pillow, eye mask and headphones.

 

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What kind of ceremonial aspects can be incorporated?

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This varies from person to person but can include: sage smudging, essential oils, guided meditation, poetry reading, prayer, tarot/oracle readings, creating an alter, etc.

 

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How quickly will I begin to experience antidepressant effects?

 

The onset of antidepressant effects typically occurs within 24 hours of administration and can last up to 2 weeks. Ketamine has been shown to effectively interrupt acute suicidal ideation in some clients. KAP is a non-linear process and relief from symptoms may wax and wane before stabilization of gains is achieved. Effectiveness of treatment can typically be assessed within a few sessions, although with some clients with more complicated psychological conditions, a longer course of treatment may be needed. Integration sessions are crucial component of KAP work.

 

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What is neuroplasticity and how long will this last?

 

Neuroplasticity is the ability to create new connections between brain cells and/or modify existing ones. Neuroplasticity fosters new habits and thinking patterns. After a ketamine session you are most susceptible to the brain changing effects of neuroplasticity for 72hrs and up to 30 days.

 

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Is there anyone who shouldn’t use KAP?

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Yes, those will uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart disease and those with a diagnosis of schizophrenia and/or extreme paranoia, mania, delusions, or hallucinations.

 

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Can I drive home after?

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No, you will need to arrange for a ride home from your session as it is not safe for you to drive for the rest of the day. If possible, arrange a ride with a friend or family member rather than ride share service. Please ensure the person picking you up is an emotionally safe person, who will not trigger any difficult emotions.

 

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