Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAP) combines the medical use of ketamine with psychotherapy to support healing from depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and other mental health conditions.

Ketamine acts on glutamate receptors in the brain, promoting neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to form new connections). This can help reduce depressive symptoms, interrupt negative thought patterns, and support emotional processing.

KAP is commonly used for:

• Treatment-resistant depression

• Anxiety disorders

• PTSD and trauma

• OCD

• Chronic stress

• Existential distress

• Burnout

When administered by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting, ketamine therapy is considered safe and well-tolerated. Medical screening and monitoring are essential.

Yes. Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic and can be legally prescribed “off-label” for mental health treatment in licensed medical settings.

Clients typically experience an altered state of consciousness lasting 45–90 minutes. Many describe it as dreamlike, expansive, or introspective. Therapy before and after the medicine session (preparation and integration) is essential.

Most people remain aware during ketamine therapy. The experience is inward-focused, and you are supported by trained professionals throughout.Answer

Many treatment plans include a series of 4–6 sessions, though this varies depending on individual needs and goals.

Common short-term side effects may include nausea, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, dissociation, or fatigue. These effects typically resolve shortly after the session.

When used in a therapeutic, medically supervised context, the risk of addiction is low. It is not prescribed for take-home use in most KAP models.

This depends on the medication. A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation will determine compatibility.

Integration sessions help clients make meaning of their experience and apply insights to daily life. Research suggests integration significantly improves long-term outcomes.

Coverage varies. While ketamine itself is FDA-approved, off-label mental health use is often not covered by insurance. Some practices provide superbills for reimbursement.

Traditional antidepressants are taken daily and may take weeks to work. Ketamine can produce rapid symptom relief, sometimes within hours or days.