Mental health treatment continues to evolve, and in recent years, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions—especially when traditional approaches haven’t provided relief. But what exactly is KAP, and how does it work?
What Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy combines the use of ketamine, a legal and FDA-approved anesthetic, with talk therapy to help individuals access deeper emotional insight, reduce psychological distress, and support long-term healing. Unlike other psychiatric medications that are taken daily to manage symptoms, ketamine is often used intermittently and in carefully controlled settings.
At low doses, ketamine produces altered states of consciousness that can enhance introspection, loosen entrenched thought patterns, and make it easier to process unresolved trauma or emotional pain. When combined with a supportive therapeutic environment, these experiences can lead to meaningful breakthroughs and emotional relief.
How the Process Works
The KAP process typically unfolds in three main phases: preparation, ketamine sessions, and integration.
- Preparation
Before any ketamine is administered, clients begin with one or more preparatory sessions with a licensed therapist. These sessions are critical for building trust, understanding the client’s goals, discussing the therapeutic process, and addressing any questions or concerns. Clients also explore their intentions for treatment—what they hope to gain or shift in their lives. - Ketamine Sessions
Ketamine can be administered in a variety of ways, including via intravenous (IV) infusion, intramuscular (IM) injection, sublingual lozenges, or nasal spray. These sessions are usually conducted in a safe, medically supervised setting. While under the influence of ketamine, clients may experience visual imagery, emotional insights, or a sense of disconnection from their usual thought patterns. - Integration
Perhaps the most important aspect of KAP is the integration phase. After a ketamine session, clients meet with a therapist to process what came up during the experience. Integration sessions help clients make sense of insights, emotions, or memories that surfaced, and support them in applying those realizations to their daily lives. This is where long-term transformation is solidified.
A Note About Our Services
At Growing Together Counseling & Healing, we strongly believe in the power of preparation and integration in the healing process. While we do not offer in-person ketamine infusions or prescribe ketamine, we do offer specialized prep and integration sessions for clients who are receiving ketamine treatment through other licensed providers. Our goal is to create a safe, grounded space for clients to explore their intentions and deepen the therapeutic benefits of their journey.
If you’re considering ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, or are already engaged in treatment and looking for therapeutic support, we’re here to help you grow, reflect, and heal—together.
