What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is an anesthetic medication commonly used as a sedative for pain in hospital settings. It is a dissociative class medication. Ketamine in low doses for mood disorders is an “off-label,” or non-FDA approved treatment. However, it has been safely used in psychiatry for over fifty years with positive results when administered responsibly. Extensive studies have shown it is effective in treating depression, suicidality, substance use disorders, severe anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder and eating disorders.

How does it actually work?

Ketamine affects the brain in a particularly unique way. It acts almost like a rapid reset button for certain brain areas involved in mood and emotional regulation. Ketamine rapidly promotes the formation of new connections between neurons, enhancing brain connectivity. This is crucial because in depressive states, these areas might be underactive or disconnected. Additionally, ketamine increases the levels of neurotransmitters, the brain’s chemical messengers, improving the communication between neurons. Unlike many traditional antidepressants that primarily affect serotonin or norepinephrine, ketamine targets glutamate, the most abundant neurotransmitter, which facilitates the building of new pathways. This helps the brain to bypass dysfunctional neural patterns that contribute to depression. Remarkably, ketamine can produce noticeable mood improvements within hours or days, a significant advantage over other antidepressants that may take weeks to become effective. This swift action and its ability to "reboot" brain function make ketamine a potent option for those who haven't responded to conventional treatments. Patients who utilize Ketamine typically have failed other treatments. Ketamine is not a “quick fix” and mantience doses can be necessary after the recommended 6 treatments.

Can I just do the Ketamine and not the therapy?

This is not how I practice, and I can give you referrals in the community. There are many ketamine providers who utilize Ketamine as a stand alone treatment. This is effective, however, not ideal.  Ketamine assisted psychotherapy combines the neurological effects of ketamine with psychotherapy, potentially enhancing the benefits of both. This combination can be particularly effective because psychotherapy sessions during the effects of ketamine can help patients process emotions, thoughts, and experiences more deeply. Therapeutic guidance helps integrate insights gained during ketamine-induced states into everyday life, which can lead to longer-lasting change. Mental exploration facilitated by ketamine can be more productive with the support of a therapist who guides the session, helping to address specific psychological issues or traumas. For those suffering from deep-rooted psychological issues, trauma, or chronic conditions that have both biological and emotional components, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is recommended. It aims not just at symptom relief but at psychological growth and healing.