Ketamine Assisted Therapy
What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine-assisted therapy is an innovative treatment modality that combines the powerful effects of ketamine—a medication originally used as an anesthetic—with therapeutic support to address mental health conditions. This approach has gained recognition for its ability to provide rapid relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain when traditional therapies may fall short. Conducted under the supervision of trained professionals, ketamine-assisted therapy offers a safe and effective pathway to emotional healing.
How Does Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Work?
Ketamine is administered in a controlled, clinical setting, typically through an injection in the muscle of the upper arm. The therapy process generally includes the following steps:
- Initial Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional and medical provider to determine if ketamine-assisted therapy is appropriate for the client’s specific needs.
- Administration of Ketamine: A trained, medical provider administers ketamine, allowing it to induce a dissociative state that can facilitate introspection and emotional processing. Clients may engage in therapeutic discussions, guided by a trained therapist. This may help individuals explore underlying issues and emotions.
- Integration: After the dosing session, clients discuss their experiences with the therapist, gaining insights and strategies for continued healing and growth.
- Ongoing Treatment: A series of sessions may be recommended to maximize the therapeutic benefits and support long-term mental wellness.
Benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
- Rapid Relief from Symptoms: Ketamine has been shown to provide quick relief from severe depression and anxiety, often within hours, making it a valuable option for those feel they are heading towards a crisis state.
- Effective for Hard-to-Treat Conditions: This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments, offering a new avenue for recovery.
- Enhanced Emotional Processing: The unique effects of ketamine can lead to profound insights and emotional breakthroughs, facilitating deeper therapeutic work.
- Improved Mood and Functionality: Many clients report significant improvements in mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life following treatment.
- Safe and Controlled Environment: Ketamine-Assisted therapy is conducted in a medically supervised setting, ensuring safety and support throughout the process.
Who Can Benefit from Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine-assisted therapy is suitable for individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, and other mental health challenges. For those seeking alternative treatment options, this innovative therapy may provide significant relief and support.
Collaboration
I collaborate with a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. As a team, we work together with you to tailor an individualized treatment plan. For some, that may look like incorporating tools like Brainspotting, EMDR and IFS. For others, it may be less engagement during a dosing session, where more processing happens in a follow up integration session.
Treatment Planning
If you are a client that is not currently working with Melanie or it has been 12+ months since your last session, you will need to schedule a Consultation & Treatment Planning session that is typically 45 minutes. This allows us to start building a connection, determine a treatment plan and make sure this is the absolute best time for you (and your nervous system) to do Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
This work is difficult and vulnerable, yet beautiful and rewarding. Trust and safety in the person holding space and guiding you through such a process is important. This is a time for you to see how you feel engaging with your therapist and ensure that they are the best fit for you as well!
Treatment Costs
Preparation and integration sessions vary, depending on the individual needs of the client. Those sessions are typically 1-1.5 hours. Dosing sessions are typically 2 hour sessions. Pricing is based on the therapist’s standard hourly session rate of $200.
Melanie’s Rates:
45-min Consultation & Treatment Planning: $150
1-Hour Preparation & Integration Sessions: $200
1.5-Hour Preparation & Integration Sessions: $300
2-Hour Dosing Session: $400
Ready to Get Connected?
To get started, please complete this CLIENT PRESCREEN. You may also email our Client Care Coordinator at admin@traumatherapynashville.com.