Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
“Ketamine? Isn’t that a horse tranquilizer?”
This is often the first reaction I hear when I mention my work in Ketamine- Assisted Psychotherapy or KAP. And yes, ketamine is often used as a veterinary anesthetic (hence the ‘horse tranquilizer’ association), but there’s so much more to it. Let’s dig a little deeper.
A Brief History of Ketamine
Ketamine has a been used in the medical field for decades primarily as an anesthetic in operating rooms, emergency settings, and even by veterinarians (horse tranquilizer, remember?). Over time, researchers have uncovered that ketamine’s benefits extend well beyond anesthesia, especially when it comes to mental health. Today, ketamine is increasingly being used off-label to treat a variety of psychological challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma.
How Ketamine Works for Mental Health
You may be surprised to learn that ketamine is not a psychedelic. It’s classified as a dissociative anesthetic. What this means is that ketamine use does not produce “hallucinations” but instead creates an experience of detachment from the present experience (also known as dissociation) within the individual. This dissociative state provides a unique opportunity for exploration. It allows the individual the ability to view things from a different perspective. During this experience, exploration into topics that might have previously been too intimidating become more accessible. This dissociative experience combined with ketamine’s anxiety-reducing properties allows many clients to better understand their current or historic experiences and see things in a different light. Putting it another way, if you can’t see the label from inside the jar, ketamine takes you out of the jar.
Additionally, studies indicate ketamine enhances neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to form new neural connections). When we experience chronic stress—whether from PTSD, depression, anxiety—our brain’s neuroplasticity is directly affected and our ability to form new neural connections is limited. We struggle to change our minds and can often feel “stuck”. Ketamine, by increasing neuroplasticity, helps to break through these barriers. To put it simply, ketamine may make it easier for your brain to heal, change, and adapt.
Ok, enough science… what about KAP?
Ahh, the reason we’re all here. How does Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) work in practice? KAP is a holistic treatment that combines the benefits of ketamine with traditional forms of therapy. As a KAP therapist, my role is to help clients set therapeutic goals, which can vary widely. Some clients seek relief from depression or anxiety, while others want to address more complex issues like PTSD, trauma, or even a desire for greater self-awareness and self-compassion.
The therapy typically involves two stages:
1. Preparation: In this phase, we’ll work together to set clear intentions for the session, helping you articulate what you hope to explore or achieve during your ketamine journey. This prep work ensures you have a clear direction and emotional readiness for the experience.
2. The Journey: During the session, you will take the prescribed ketamine dose in a safe and supportive environment. As you experience the effects, I will be there to guide and support you, helping you explore whatever emotions, insights, or memories arise. The therapeutic work continues during this part of the session, as ketamine may allow you to access parts of your consciousness that are typically hard to reach.
But Wait, Can Therapists Prescribe Medication?
Great question. As a therapist, I do not directly prescribe medication. However, I can assess whether ketamine might be helpful for you and, if so, refer you to a qualified medical provider who can determine whether ketamine is right for you. The medical provider will conduct an assessment and, if appropriate, write the prescription. Afterward, you’ll bring your prescription to our office, where the ketamine “journey” will be facilitated in a safe and controlled setting.
Do All Therapists Offer KAP?
Not every therapist offers Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, as it requires specialized training. However, that doesn’t mean you have to abandon your current therapy! Many KAP therapists, like myself, collaborate with other professionals to integrate KAP into a client’s ongoing therapeutic journey.
Have More questions?
There’s so much more to explore when it comes to KAP—from how long treatment lasts, to what the experience feels like. If you’re curious, or have specific questions, I’d love to chat with you. Feel free to reach out to me directly via reach out and we can start a conversation to see if KAP might be right for you.
Cheers,
Becca
