The Truth About Ketamine

There is no doubt that evidence-based psychotherapy, psychiatric medication, or a combination of the two, can be life-changing for many people. Unfortunately, there are times when these interventions do not provide sufficient relief. Some find themselves dealing with persistent depression, anxiety, or trauma symptoms despite multiple treatment attempts. Others struggle with “diminishing returns” on their medications, finding them less effective over time and often accompanied by significant side effects. 

Studies have shown that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) can rapidly reduce mental health symptoms that have not responded adequately to psychotherapy or psychiatric medications.  Ketamine has been used safely for many decades as an anesthetic and has been incorporated into psychotherapy more recently due to its high level of safety and efficacy in the outpatient setting. Ketamine enables the brain to be more flexible, resulting in potential for resolution of “stuck” symptoms of depression, anxiety, or trauma and an improved sense of overall connectedness and wellbeing. 

What's Different About Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy at Rezenity Health?

Safety. We work with local, trusted medical providers for evaluation and prescribing. Dosing sessions only occur after substantial preparation with our KAP-trained therapist.

 Results. Compared to ketamine taken on its own, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy offers more lasting benefit and is more cost-effective for patients. We want to help folks get better quickly and stay better.

 Cost. All preparation and integration sessions can be billed under insurance. Dosing sessions are not covered by insurance and are billed on a sliding scale based on financial need.

How Does It Work?

Ketamine as a medication works by increasing neuroplasticity through the glutamate neurotransmitter network. In therapeutic doses, it elicits a non-ordinary state of consciousness that encourages reflection and observation of a person’s inner world. Psychedelic in nature, ketamine experiences can allow new perspectives on challenging or painful patterns of thinking. Working with a therapist trained in KAP allows for invaluable assistance in preparation, intention setting and treatment planning, and most importantly integration of gained insights. When used alone as a medication, ketamine can offer immediate reduction in symptoms. The supportive process of KAP allows for deeper processing and application which can lead to lasting changes, ultimately reducing or eliminating the need for ongoing medication sessions. 

What About the Scary Stories in the News?

Ketamine has garnered a lot of attention in the media in the last few years, some positive and others tragic. At Rezenity Health we use a research-validated protocol to ensure safety and high-quality results. Our process for KAP involves a comprehensive intake, preparatory sessions, medicated psychotherapy sessions lasting 3 hours, and integration sessions.  Most individuals have a positive response to treatment by the fourth medicated session.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Anyone who is 1) struggling with depressive, anxious, obsessive-compulsive, or trauma-related symptoms and 2) has already tried "first line" treatment without the desired results.

KAP is not safe for individuals with a history of a psychotic disorder and those with uncontrolled high blood pressure.  

What if You Already Have a Therapist?

Our KAP service is meant to enhance your existing care, not replace it. With your permission, we will collaborate with your established treatment team. If you don't have a therapist or want to make a change, we can also help connect you with a Rezenity Health clinician.

That Was a Lot to Take In!

 If you have questions or are just curious to learn more about this approach, give us a call at (585) 895-6191, email us at info@rezenityhealth.com or visit our website