Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy
Ketamine Assited Psychotherapy (KAP)
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) has received positive results in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress, along with other mental health conditions. Ketamine, which was initially used as an anesthetic and for pain management, influences the glutamate system. (Glutamate is an important neurotransmitter and plays a critical role in the normal functioning of the brain). Many studies have demonstrated encouraging results when psycholytic treatment (ketamine), is combined with psychotherapeutic interventions.
The KAP process is divided into 3 stages:
1) Preparation
2) Psychedelic Session
3) Integration
Preparation
The preparation sessions are an important part of this healing journey. These sessions include psychological and medical assessments to ensure a proper fit for this protocol. Therapeutic relationships are developed during this stage to cultivate the safety necessary for an effective KAP experience; along with the establishment of a healthy mindset and intention for the experience. During this phase, you will learn what to expect and how you will be supported through each stage of the process.
Psychedelic Session
The session begins with the intention of healing and the administration of a therapeutic dose of ketamine. These sessions are slotted to take between 2.5 to 3 hours, and incorporate psychotherapeutic measures to enhance and deepen the experience. Psychedelic sessions are repeated over weeks and then months to maximize the benefits of this intervention and will be customized to meet each individual's specific needs.
Integration
Integration sessions following psychedelic experiences are paramount to incorporating the learning and insights gained into daily life and living. These appointments take the shape of more traditional psychotherapeutic sessions and are 50 minutes in length. They are generally scheduled within 48 hours following the psychedelic session. If you have an established relationship with a psychotherapist outside of our practice and would rather utilize that relationship for the integration sessions, we would be happy to discuss this option with you.