Tonya Robbins, LMFT, MBA
Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Wellness and Relational Institute, PLLC (WRI), in partnership with A Sound Mind Behavioral Health, LLC (ASM), offers a transformational path to healing: Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
Ketamine is a dissociative medication with more than 50 years of safe use as an anesthetic agent in medical procedures. Recently, ketamine has shown great promise as an off-label treatment for depression that is difficult to treat, anxiety disorders, substance abuse, and so much more. A therapeutic dose is a fraction (10 - 20%) of the dose typically used for anesthesia.
Ketamine is used to create a powerful experience, inducing dissociation. It is being used to enhance neuroplasticity (capacity of the brain to rewire itself in response to stimulation and experience). WRI and ASM are now offering this powerful experience to assist in psychotherapy.
As integrated clinicians who desire each of our patients to receive the most benefit from their therapeutic experience as possible, we do not believe in the efficacy of the infusion-only model of care found at most ketamine treatment facilities. In these types of clinics, IV ketamine is administered in a clinical setting, with little oversight or integration of the patient. The benefits of the infusion-only method are fleeting in the treatment of mental health and require that the patient continue with regularly scheduled treatments for an extended period. We have found that integrating the powerful insights from the ketamine experience with talk therapy are necessary to make lasting behavioral changes and improvement in mental health.
To schedule a consultation or book your appointment, please contact us at Kim@wellnessmft.com or through our website below. We look forward to walking alongside you on your journey to health, wellness, and peace.
FAQs about Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach which uses the administration of Ketamine medication in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat various mental health conditions, such as depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
How does Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy work?
Ketamine is administered in a controlled setting, and is believed to work by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain, which can lead to rapid improvements in mood and thought patterns.
Is KAP legal?
Yes, Ketamine is a legal medication when prescribed by a medical provider, and KAP is practiced in various clinics around the world.
What conditions can KAP treat?
KAP has been used to treat depression, PTSD, OCD, and substance use disorders, among others.
What conditions might make a person ineligible for KAP?
Before participating in Ketamine treatment, you will be carefully assessed to determine if you are eligible for KAP, including a medical/psychiatric history, review of your medical/psychiatric records if necessary, and administration of brief psychological tests to assess your state of mind. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are not eligible because of potential effects on the fetus, or nursing child. Individuals with untreated hypertension is a contra-indication to Ketamine use as the substance causes a rise in blood pressure. Similarly, a history of heart disease may make you ineligible to participate. Ketamine should not be taken if you have untreated hyperthyroidism.
Can KAT lead to addiction?
While Ketamine (like many other medications or substances) can be addictive if abused, KAP is administered in a controlled, clinical setting to minimize the risk of addiction.
What is the difference between Racemic Ketamine and Esketamine?
Racemic Ketamine is the standard form used in medical settings, while Esketamine is a more recent, FDA-approved nasal spray specifically for treatment-resistant depression.
Are there any risks associated with KAP?
As with any treatment, there are potential risks, including dissociation, elevated blood pressure, and in rare cases, addiction. These risks are managed by medical professionals during and following treatment.
How is ketamine administered in KAP?
Ketamine has been administered by intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), sublingual, oral, and intranasal routes, depending on the clinic and the specific needs of the patient. At this time, with the WRI and ASM partnership, the medication is administered either intramuscularly or sublingually.
What is the success rate of KAP for depression?
Studies have shown promising results, with many patients experiencing rapid relief from depressive symptoms, though individual responses can vary. Ketamine should never be used except under the direct supervision of a licensed medical provider. Patients need to be carefully screened for medical and psychological contraindications to minimize risks of complications.