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KAP combines the rapid neurobiological effects of ketamine with structured psychotherapeutic support, specifically preparation and integration sessions, to produce lasting healing that neither pharmacology nor therapy can achieve in isolation. Ketamine temporarily quiets the default mode network and opens a neuroplastic window during which deeply held patterns become accessible and changeable.
Yes. Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and the only legally available psychedelic-assisted therapy in the United States. At Heart Alchemy Institute, all KAP is conducted under appropriate medical supervision with licensed clinicians. We operate in full compliance with California state law and federal regulations.
A ketamine infusion clinic focuses on the pharmacological administration of ketamine, typically for rapid antidepressant effects. Heart Alchemy Institute is a psychotherapy practice first. Every client receives individualized preparation therapy before their medicine session and dedicated integration therapy afterward. The neuroplastic window opened by ketamine is the opportunity. Integration is where lasting change is made.
Current research supports KAP for PTSD, treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, burnout, existential distress (including end-of-life concerns), Prolonged Grief Disorder, and emerging evidence supports its use following Traumatic Brain Injury. Heart Alchemy Institute specializes in all of these areas.
Preparation sessions (typically 1–2 sessions) establish the therapeutic alliance, set intentions, provide psychoeducation about the ketamine experience, address any fears or concerns, and develop a personalized 'set and setting' plan. This container-building work is essential. The quality of the preparation directly shapes the quality of the medicine experience.
You will be in a comfortable, private setting with your therapist present throughout. You will wear an eye mask and listen to carefully curated music. The ketamine is administered via the agreed-upon route (typically sublingual or intramuscular, coordinated with our medical partner). Sessions typically last 2–3 hours. Your therapist holds the space, offers grounding support if needed, and remains present without directing your inner experience.
Integration is the therapeutic work done after a medicine session to process, understand, and embody the insights and experiences that emerged. Research consistently shows that integration is what converts transient breakthroughs into lasting cognitive and behavioral change. At Heart Alchemy Institute, each KAP session is followed by a dedicated integration session.
Our Discovery Session (1 prep + 1 KAP + 1 integration) is designed as an entry point and may be sufficient for some clients. The Heart Alchemy Journey (2 prep + 4 KAP + 4 integration sessions) is our flagship program and is designed for deeper, sustained transformation. Extended support is available for Journey graduates on a per-session basis.
The Discovery Session is $1,800–$2,200 and includes one preparation session, one KAP session, and one integration session. If you proceed to the Heart Alchemy Journey within 30 days, this investment is credited toward the full program. The Heart Alchemy Journey is $7,500 and includes two preparation sessions, four KAP sessions, and four integration sessions.
Heart Alchemy Institute is a private-pay practice and does not bill insurance directly. However, we can provide a superbill for clients with out-of-network benefits. We encourage you to contact your insurance provider to understand your out-of-network mental health benefits.
Heart Alchemy Institute is located in Carlsbad, California (North County San Diego). We serve clients throughout California. Please contact us at [email protected] for specific location details and directions.
The best first step is a free 30-minute consultation call with Savannah. During this call, we will discuss your history, goals, and any questions you have. KAP is not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical and psychiatric contraindications exist, and we conduct a thorough screening process to ensure safety and fit.
Ketamine has an excellent safety profile when administered in a clinical setting under appropriate supervision. It has been used as an anesthetic since 1970 and has decades of safety data. At subanesthetic doses used in KAP, it does not suppress respiration, making it significantly safer than many other anesthetic agents. All clients undergo medical screening prior to treatment.
KAP is contraindicated for individuals with a personal or family history of psychosis or schizophrenia, active mania, uncontrolled hypertension, certain cardiac conditions, active substance use disorders (particularly stimulants or dissociatives), and pregnancy. A thorough medical and psychiatric screening is conducted with all prospective clients.
Certain medications can interact with ketamine, including some antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and stimulants. A complete medication review is conducted during the screening process. We work collaboratively with your prescribing physician or psychiatrist as needed.