Ketamine-Assisted Therapy

The Behavioural Wellness Clinic in Ottawa is now offering Ketamine-Assisted Therapy!

Treatment for Mental Health

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is part of a rapidly evolving field of mental health treatment that combines the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, with psychotherapy to treat a range of mental health disorders. This innovative approach has shown promising results for people who have not responded to traditional therapies.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic for surgery and has been used safely for decades. In recent years, research has shown that low doses of ketamine can have rapid antidepressant effects when combined with psychotherapy. It works by interacting with specific receptors in the brain that regulate mood and emotions.

Ketamine for Mental Health

Research has shown that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can effectively treat various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. In addition, empirically supported research shows it can effectively treat chronic pain and other medical conditions.

How Does Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Work?

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy involves the use of ketamine in combination with psychotherapy to enhance the therapeutic experience. During a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy session, the patient is given a low dose of ketamine in a controlled setting under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional. The patient is then guided through a psychotherapy session, which may include talk therapy, mindfulness meditation, or other techniques.

Combining ketamine and psychotherapy works by enhancing the brain's ability to make new neuro-connections and rewire itself, leading to improved mood and emotional regulation. The effects of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can be rapid, with some patients reporting improvement after just one session.

What Happens During a Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Session?

During a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy session, the client will typically take a moderate dose of ketamine under the supervision of a trained therapist. The dose is carefully calibrated to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for the client. The effects of ketamine can vary depending on the dose, method of administration, and individual factors such as body weight and metabolism.

Once the effects start, the client will typically lie comfortably and listen to instrumental music while the therapist monitors their experience. Ketamine can induce a dream-like state that can be characterized by altered perceptions of time, space, and self. Some clients may experience visual or auditory hallucinations or feel like they are floating or detached from their bodies.

The therapist will be present throughout the session to provide support and guidance as needed. After the effects wear off, the therapist will discuss the experience with the client and help them integrate any insights or changes into their ongoing therapy. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy aims to facilitate a deeper level of self-awareness and healing by temporarily altering the client's state of consciousness.

It's worth noting that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is a relatively new and still-evolving treatment modality. While much research shows that it can be effective for treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, more research is needed to fully understand who will benefit most from this approach. In addition, clients should work with a qualified therapist who is experienced in administering ketamine and who can provide appropriate follow-up care.