Have you tried to alleviate symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, or trauma, only to find little relief or intolerable side effects? If you find yourself stuck, you may be interested in exploring the potential benefits of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
What’s ahead:
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) at MHCA
KAP, offered at MHCA, leverages the benefits of traditional IV ketamine while providing a personalized, IV-free, ketamine treatment. Our KAP treatment program is overseen by a Board Certified Psychiatrist and Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Additionally, a licensed counselor who is specially certified in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy personally assists each patient throughout their individual treatment sessions to ensure both medical oversight and therapeutic support.
What is Ketamine?
For those unfamiliar with ketamine, here’s a concise overview of its historical context and its application. Ketamine, developed in the 1960s, has primarily functioned as a potent anesthetic for surgical procedures in both pediatric and adult patients. Additionally, it has proven effective as a battlefield analgesic during wartime. In recent times, the FDA has authorized its “off-label” use to address psychiatric conditions that have shown resistance to conventional treatment methods, including medication and psychotherapy.
Ketamine has demonstrated its potential to deliver swift alleviation of major depressive symptoms, including suicidal thoughts, for many individuals. Nevertheless, the extent and duration of symptom relief vary among patients. Some may achieve lasting relief with only a few administrations, while others may necessitate ongoing maintenance doses to sustain symptom alleviation and achieve remission. It is important to note that, akin to other mental health modalities, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is not a fix-all. The client’s continued personal efforts, such as lifestyle adjustments and ongoing integration therapy, play a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of KAP and the duration of the observed improvements.
What is the cost for KAP?
- KAP Program Package (basic) – $2,075
- Medical Intake
- 4 KAP Treatments
- KAP Program Package (Premium) – $3,200
- Psychological Evaluation
- Medical Intake
- 6 KAP Treatments
- Additional Individual Options As-Needed
- Initial Therapy Session with KAP Licensed Provider ($175)
- Additional KAP Treatments ($450 ea)
- Follow-up Psychiatric (Medical) Appointment ($150)
- Post Treatment Individual Therapy ($175 ea)
- We provide a 10% discount for all first responders (active or retired).
* MHCA participates in a wide variety of health plans to serve our patients. If you have any questions related to health insurance acceptance or covered services, click here for more information.
What is Ketamine-assisted Psychotherapy like?
MHCA employs methodologies closely aligned with those employed in clinical trials involving MDMA and psilocybin, as exemplified by studies conducted at institutions like Johns Hopkins. However, our approach incorporates sublingual administration of ketamine, eliminating the need for intravenous equipment or physical tethers. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has been employed internationally since the 1970s and has seen increased adoption in the United States among psychiatric professionals and mental health practitioners over the past 10-15 years. This surge in interest is largely attributed to the research conducted on the clinical applications of psilocybin and MDMA. At MHCA, we integrate various techniques such as the careful selection of music, attention to setting and environment, the use of eye covers, and a focus on integration, mirroring approaches commonly associated with psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Following the administration of ketamine, clients often describe experiencing either a serene, trance-like state or a broader, non-physical sensation. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) utilizes subanesthetic dosages of ketamine, guided by both established research findings and the individual biochemical makeup of clients. Ongoing research into this longstanding medication indicates promising results, suggesting that ketamine can provide relief from symptoms associated with treatment-resistant depression and trauma-related conditions, including anxiety, feelings of hopelessness, disordered eating patterns, and sleep disturbances, such as those observed in PTSD.
KAP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is KAP contraindicated for some people?
Ketamine is generally regarded as safe for most adult patients, and it’s commonly used as an anesthetic for pediatric patients as well. However, it’s important to note that in this specific context, it may not be suitable for individuals with a history of uncontrolled high blood pressure, a previous myocardial infarction (heart attack), stroke, or an aneurysm, as it has the potential to increase blood pressure. Additionally, it’s typically not administered to clients who are currently experiencing manic episodes (such as those with bipolar I disorder) or individuals with thought disorders (like schizophrenia) due to the need for further research in these cases. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
How do you administer medication?
Here at MHCA, we provide Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) through sublingual ketamine administration. This approach enables us to tailor your treatment and dosage according to your specific symptoms and your individual response to the medication. Your treatment is personalized to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
What if I have a psychiatric provider or therapist already?
During your Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) sessions, if there’s a need for adjustments to your medications, we’ll work in collaboration with your current healthcare provider to ensure your treatment plan aligns with your needs.
After the initial 1 or 2-week KAP treatment sessions, you will resume working with your existing psychiatric provider. For some individuals, occasional maintenance KAP treatments may prove beneficial to sustain symptom remission. In such cases, we will coordinate with your current or established psychiatric provider to ensure a cohesive approach to your care.
We strongly encourage all of our clients, whether they were engaged in counseling before starting KAP or not, to continue therapy. Integration therapy, both during and after KAP, holds a pivotal role in this treatment modality. Furthermore, ketamine has been shown to promote neuronal synaptic branching, or neuroplasticity, post-treatment, making therapy a vital component to maximize the benefits of these new synaptic connections.
It’s essential to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution, and the combination of medications, including ketamine, along with ongoing self-exploration through therapy, significantly enhances the likelihood of achieving long-term symptom reduction and relief. Your overall well-being is our utmost priority.
Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) covered by insurance?
It’s important to note that Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is presently not covered by insurance, primarily because it is considered an “off-label” use according to the FDA. This designation stands in contrast to a mounting body of research and evidence supporting its effectiveness. At MHCA, we strive to assist you in every possible way. In some cases, we can provide you with a super bill, which you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Please keep in mind that coverage may vary, but we are committed to helping you navigate these aspects of your care.
Can I drive after taking or receiving Ketamine?
After your scheduled KAP session, which typically lasts between 2 to 2.5 hours, please note that you won’t be allowed to drive immediately afterward. It’s important to arrange transportation to and from the clinic on the days you undergo KAP in advance. However, you can safely and legally resume driving and your regular activities the day following your KAP sessions. Your safety and well-being are our top priorities.
How does Ketamine work?
Ketamine is distinguished by its unique mechanism of action, setting it apart from the majority of psychotropic medications available in the United States. It primarily targets glutamate receptors, specifically the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. Glutamate plays a pivotal role as an excitatory neurotransmitter, influencing various neurological functions, including memory, learning, anxiety regulation, adrenaline release, and aspects of sleep. Ketamine acts by antagonizing or blocking the transmission of glutamate receptor signals.
Furthermore, ketamine finds applications in specialized medical contexts for managing chronic and severe pain conditions. Ongoing research focuses on understanding how and why ketamine is effective in treating these conditions, as well as exploring its potential utility in addressing other medical conditions.
