“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” – Socrates
What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative approach that combines the therapeutic effects of ketamine with psychotherapy to treat various mental health conditions.
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used for decades in medical settings. In recent years, researchers have explored its potential therapeutic benefits for mental health conditions.
KAP involves administering a controlled dose in the form of a lozenge in a therapeutic setting under the supervision of a licensed Psychotherapist. The ketamine session is typically integrated with psychotherapy techniques.
Therapeutic Process
KAP at Integration is carried out with the utmost care, adhering to strict guidelines to ensure patient safety and therapy effectiveness.
- Preparation – Before the ketamine session, patients undergo a thorough assessment to ensure suitability for the treatment. You will also receive a medication evaluation from a medical Doctor at Journey. This medication evaluation is conducted virtually with a medical Doctor at Journey Clinical.
- Administration – Ketamine is administered orally. We have partnered with Journey and a Doctor will complete the medication evaluation and subscribe the Ketamine. The dose is carefully calibrated based on the individual’s needs and response.
- Psychotherapy Session – During and after ketamine administration, clients engage in psychotherapy sessions. These sessions aim to capitalize on the altered state induced by ketamine, promoting introspection, emotional processing, and insights. Typically Ketamine is administered 4 to 6 sessions over 2 to 3 weeks in order to receive optimal neuroplasticity benefits.
- Integration and Follow-up – After the session, clients often continue with regular psychotherapy sessions to integrate and build upon the insights gained during the ketamine experience.
Benefits of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
KAP is believed to work by modulating glutamate neurotransmission and promoting synaptogenesis, leading to rapid and profound changes in brain function.
Conditions Treated
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy has been heralded for its potential to significantly improve mental health outcomes in areas where traditional therapies may fall short.
KAP has shown promise in treating treatment-resistant Depression, PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder), anxiety disorders, OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder), Substance Abuse and certain chronic pain conditions.
Safety and Monitoring
Ketamine administration for therapeutic purposes is conducted in a controlled environment with careful monitoring of vital signs and psychological status. Adverse effects are generally mild and transient but can include dissociation, changes in perception, and blood pressure changes.
Efficacy and Research
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy has been proven to have positive outcomes. The medical model of Ketamine therapy which does not include combined psychotherapy has limitations of not providing the clinical support and integration needed to receive the best outcomes.
Legal Considerations
Ketamine is a controlled substance, and its use for therapeutic purposes must comply with legal and ethical guidelines. Regulations may vary by jurisdiction.
KAP represents an evolving frontier in mental health treatment, with ongoing research exploring its effectiveness, optimal protocols, and long-term outcomes. Individuals considering KAP should seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals experienced in this modality.
Explore The Difference KAP Can Make
KAP represents a promising advancement in mental health treatment, offering new hope for conditions that are often resistant to traditional treatment methods. At Integration, Alicia MacGowan is dedicated to providing this innovative therapy with professionalism and compassion, tailored to each individual’s needs.
For those seeking more information or wishing to explore the possibilities of KAP, we welcome you to contact us at (844)-355-6355. Integration is located at 916 North Western Avenue, Suite #205, San Pedro, CA 90732, and provides a supportive and confidential environment for all seeking healing and growth.
