What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?

If you struggle with chronic conditions such as treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or PTSD, chances are that you’ve tried psychotherapy or have at least explored the option. Although traditional therapy can be a powerful tool for improving your quality of life, you may have trouble processing traumatic events and require further help. Ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has shown promising results for patients who need some extra assistance in processing emotions or events, and could be an option to consider. Even if your clinic doesn’t offer ketamine assisted psychotherapy, receiving a ketamine infusion prior to your talk therapy session may be helpful. Interested in learning more about KAP? Here’s what you need to know:

Why Ketamine Can Help With Processing

Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that has been in clinical use since the 1960s. Ketamine has been successfully incorporated into treatment plans for a variety of conditions and is known for its dissociative properties. Ketamine has a powerful effect on the central nervous system, which makes this drug especially helpful for unlocking memories and coping with traumas that have long been buried.

Although the function of ketamine isn’t entirely understood, it’s clear that its dissociative effects can play a significant role in helping individuals cope with trauma, addiction, and much more.

Who Can Benefit From KAP?

Therapy provided by a licensed professional is an excellent tool that’s often crucial in developing self-reflection and healing. If you’ve been attending therapy sessions but haven’t achieved the results you’re looking for, incorporating ketamine into the mix may be an option to consider. If you’ve been diagnosed with PTSD or sense that more meaningful memories or thoughts are hidden below the surface, ketamine could be the answer in your processing journey.

Although ketamine assisted psychotherapy isn’t widely available yet, it may be possible to simulate the experience by scheduling a ketamine infusion and psychotherapy within a day of each other. You know how important it is to find a therapist that you work well with, and it’s just as crucial to have a qualified team on your side to administer ketamine therapy. Our practice was founded by board-certified doctors who have seen the positive effects that ketamine can have for a wide array of conditions. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can help, please get in touch with us. We look forward to learning more about your therapy goals and are happy make a plan with your care team if we determine that you’re a candidate for ketamine infusions.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

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