Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Ketamine is one of the most widely used medications in modern medicine, and is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines. It was developed in 1963, FDA-approved in 1970, and used frequently by many hospitals and medical offices because of its rapid onset, proven safety, and short duration of action. Ketamine is most commonly used in surgical settings and is unique because it does not cause cardiovascular or respiratory depression/impairment associated with common anesthetics.

In Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, we are using much lower doses than what is commonly used in hospital settings. Using ketamine in our treatment model has proven to be very safe, particularly because our treatment team very carefully assesses each person for potential risks prior to treatment, and ensures that it is safe to move forward. During each ketamine session, a clinician will be monitoring for the entire duration of the session, and a physician will either be present in the office or on call.

While ketamine has been used for over half a century as an anesthetic, where it has FDA-approval and is considered “on label,” it has increasingly been used at sub-anesthetic doses as an off-label treatment for various chronic treatment-resistant mental health conditions. Many medications are commonly used as off-label treatments, which means they are used for some indication or in some way that is different from the medication’s original area of approval. In the case of ketamine being used to treat psychiatric conditions, there is substantial evidence based in scientific literature and community practices that indicates it is safe and effective. However, likely because generic ketamine cannot be patented, there is little financial incentive for it to be put through the expensive clinical trials needed to get an “on-label designation.” Off-label treatments are completely legal and commonly used.

Ketamine generally is safe to take with many other medications. There are very few medications that could be potentially dangerous if taken with ketamine, and most medication interactions actually mitigate ketamine’s effects (make it less potent). Our team will work with you to understand the medications and substances you take to develop a plan for safely and effectively utilizing this treatment.

Similar medication or psychedelic-assisted treatments (such as MDMA or psilocybin) often require weaning off medications prior to starting the treatment due to potential interactions. This can be a challenging process for many people and can be destabilizing. Ketamine is safe and effective to use alongside most antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and other common medications.

*Please consult with your treating physician prior to mixing ketamine with any medications.

In the Ketamine Screening and Orientation guide, there is an in-depth orientation of the fees associated with this treatment. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an intensive treatment that involves an extended amount and duration of psychotherapy taking place over the multiple-month treatment period. Due to the 3 to 4 hour ketamine-assisted psychotherapy sessions and regular 1 hour preparation/integration sessions, an extensive amount of psychotherapy takes place in a short duration when compared to traditional psychotherapy. This amount of psychotherapy time can lead to a high cost for the service in the short-term. Many clients find this treatment can expedite their healing process, and describe this as a worthwhile investment. It is common for a course of KAP treatment to include about 20 hours of time with a provider.

The actual cost to each client will depend on their specific insurance coverage. We are one of very few Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy programs that is able to get insurance reimbursement for certain portions of the treatment process to make this treatment more affordable. However, due to some insurance companies only offering a limited reimbursement (if any) for this treatment, expect that there will be an out of pocket cost. Potential participants are urged to consult with their insurance provider to understand their coverage (see the Fees & Insurance section of the Orientation Guide for info on what to ask them). We also offer low-fee options on a limited basis to clients who would otherwise have trouble accessing this service. Feel free to ask about these options in your free Screening Call with the provider.