Ketamine is a synthetic pharmaceutical compound known as a dissociative anesthetic. It's widely used in modern medicine and listed on the World Health Organization’s Essential Medicines. Primarily used in surgical settings, including pediatric surgery, for its safety profile in airway management. It's also effective in managing acute and chronic pain conditions due to its analgesic properties.

When a new drug is FDA-approved, a label outlines its use. Ketamine is increasingly used "off-label" for mental health conditions like depression, alcoholism, PTSD, and anxiety. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) involves using ketamine to enhance psychotherapy, offering a unique approach to mental health treatment.

Difficult experiences are possible, but they can lead to deeper connections with healing needs. Therapy and preparation sessions is crucial for providing a safe space to navigate and understand these shifts.

The process involves an initial phone screening, 2-3 preparation sessions, medical screening, KAP sessions, and follow-ups. Our team assesses if KAP is suitable for you and collaboratively plans your treatment.

Research suggests optimal outcomes with at least 3 sessions. We collaboratively determine the best approach for you.

Ketamine acts as an NMDA antagonist on the glutamate neurotransmitter system, different from classic psychedelics. It doesn't require stopping SSRIs. Administered through various methods, our practice primarily uses sublingual tablets for a more engaging and comfortable experience.

Sessions begin with discussions about your state and intentions. For sublingual dosing, a lozenge is used, allowing absorption without swallowing for 15 minutes. A second dose may follow after 30 minutes. Throughout, your provider offers support, recommends relaxation exercises, and ensures a comfortable environment. There's no pressure to narrate your journey, but support is there as needed.

Experiences vary, but lower doses offer empathogen-like responses, while higher doses create dissociative, psychedelic experiences. Ketamine induces a non-ordinary state of consciousness, disrupting negative feelings and promoting shifts in overall well-being.

Ketamine effects start in 5-10 minutes, peak for 20-30 minutes, and gradually diminish over an hour. Sensory alterations may continue for about 5 hours. Driving or hazardous activities should be avoided on the day of administration.

As insurance doesn't cover KAP, self-pay rates are around $400 per session. Costs for medicine, evaluation, and integration sessions v

Improvement occurs with multiple administrations, and ongoing therapy is recommended for long-term effectiveness. Results vary, and additional sessions may be needed.

Ketamine may raise blood pressure and heart rate, making it contraindicated for certain conditions. A screening process ensures suitability for intake.

Ketamine, while in the same group as PCP, hasn't shown dependence issues. Its intentional use in KAP under supervision minimizes risks.

Working with a therapist gives you time to build trust and rapport during the preparation time to have a better understanding of your needs and intentions. The journey session is a 1:1 support session vs IV clinic which usually consists of dosing and then check-in. ** For suicidality concerns IV clinics are recommended due to the variety in dosage options **