Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP)
WHAT IS KETAMINE ASSISTED PSYCHOTHERAPY (KAP)?
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), is the use of prescribed ketamine as an adjunct to psychotherapy for the treatment of Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anxiety. KAP combines ketamine with traditional talk therapy to augment the effects of both. KAP is a lot like “regular” therapy, but ketamine can allow even greater access to emotions, memories, and connections that have previously been difficult to access.
WHAT IS KETAMINE?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used since the 1960s for adults and children. It is one of the safest anesthetics that is newly approved in very small doses for the off-label treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD), and anxiety. Ketamine works by blocking the brain’s NMDA receptors and stimulating AMPA receptors, which are thought to help form new synaptic connections and boost neural circuits that regulate stress and mood. One of the significant benefits of ketamine is that compared to other antidepressants, which have a very slow onset time, ketamine is very rapidly acting analgesic that can begin to take effect within 1-2 hours after treatment. Ketamine has also been shown to enhance overall neuroplasticity and anti-inflammatory processes for lasting symptom improvement.
What Does Ketamine Feel Like?
Ketamine produces a floating, dissociative effect. Peoples experiences range from heightened sensory awareness to a full mystical experience. The experience depends on the person, the dose and the method of administration.
Can I Just Do the Ketamine Treatment Without Therapy?
You can and some do. However, emerging research shows that ketamine treatment is more effective and impactful in conjunction with therapy. Studies show that benefits to mood and neurological growth can last up to two weeks or more after a ketamine experience. Therefore it’s important to maximize this time by engaging in therapy and other growth- oriented behaviors.
Can Erika Malm Collective Prescribe Ketamine?
As therapists, we are not licensed to prescribe controlled substances. You will need to meet with a medical provider specially trained in Ketamine to assess if you meet criteria. They will also rule out any medical issues that might prevent you from safely using Ketamine. Our team has worked with several providers and clinics throughout the city since 2018. Because we understand how essential the relationship and setting are for effective treatment, at this time we only provide KAP in collaboration with two exceptional, trusted medical doctors, and one Ketamine treatment center, all of whom we have found to provide the highest quality and integrity of care.
Is KAP Just One Session?
No. At Erika Malm Collective, KAP is a full series of sessions. It is a significant investment of time, energy and money.
How We Offer KAP
Session 1 Series:
- Initial Assessment (1 hour)
- Meet with our collaborating MD to determine if ketamine is an appropriate medication for you (1 -1.5 hours)
- If so, meet with therapist for 4 Preparatory sessions to explore your history and set your intentions ( 45-minutes each)
- Ketamine IV or IM Session (3 hours) with MD
- 1 integration session immediately following Ketamine session
- 2 Follow-up Integration Sessions the days following the ketamine session
Session 2 Series:
- 1 intention-setting session prior to next Ketamine IM
or IV session - Ketamine IV or IM Session (3 hours) with MD
- 1 integration session immediately following Ketamine session
- 2 Follow-up Integration Sessions the days following the ketamine session
Session 3 Series:
- 1 intention-setting session prior to next Ketamine IM or IV session
- Ketamine IV or IM Session (3 hours) with MD
- 1 integration session immediately following Ketamine session
- 2 Follow-up Integration Sessions the days following the ketamine session
Session 4 Series:
- 1 intention-setting session prior to next Ketamine IM or IV session
- Ketamine IV or IM Session (3 hours) with MD
- 1 integration session immediately following Ketamine session
- 2 Follow-up Integration Sessions the days following the ketamine session
Maintenance KAP Series:
- 1 intention-setting session prior to next Ketamine IM or IV session
- Ketamine IV or IM Session (3 hours) with MD
- 1 integration session immediately following Ketamine session
- 2 Follow-up Integration sessions the days following the ketamine session
What’s My Investment?
Our general practice rates are listed below, and are separate from any fees incurred through your medical provider.
Individual rates for preparation and integration sessions (range depends on provider):
- 45 Min: $250-$525
- 60 min: $325-$650
- 90-min: $495-$1025