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Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: What to Expect?

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: What to Expect?

At Bay Area Ketamine Center, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy offers a transformative approach to mental health treatment. Patients can expect a calming, supportive environment where ketamine is used alongside therapy to explore emotions and promote healing. Our expert team ensures personalized care for each individual’s needs. Please contact us today or book an appointment online now! Our clinic is conveniently located at 746 Altos Oaks Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024.

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Near Me in Bay Area Los Altos CA
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Near Me in Bay Area Los Altos CA

Table of Contents:

What conditions can be treated with ketamine assisted psychotherapy?
How can I prepare for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy?
What can I expect from ketamine therapy?
How do I find a qualified therapist for ketamine assisted psychotherapy in the Bay Area?

What conditions can be treated with ketamine assisted psychotherapy?


At Bay Area Ketamine Center, we are proud to offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as part of our comprehensive approach to mental health and pain management. This novel approach combines low doses of ketamine with psychotherapy in order to help patients access and process difficult emotions and experiences.

One of the primary conditions we treat with KAP is Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). If traditional methods such as antidepressants or talk therapy have not eased your depression, KAP could provide a breakthrough in your treatment.

We also employ KAP in the treatment of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and more. This innovative treatment can help to alleviate severe symptoms, reduce anxiety, and provide new coping mechanisms.

Our practice also uses KAP to treat patients with bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and substance use disorders. For those struggling with chronic pain, such as Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Fibromyalgia, KAP can provide an alternative when traditional pain management strategies have been insufficient, providing relief from persistent, debilitating pain.

We also recognize the important role KAP can play in reducing suicidal thoughts and discouraging suicidal behaviors, and we are committed to providing this lifeline for individuals struggling with severe mental distress.

KAP is not a standalone treatment. It forms one component of more a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other evidence-based interventions, lifestyle modifications, and psychotherapy. We continuously keep abreast of emerging research in the field of KAP, ensuring that we provide our patients with the most up-to-date and effective treatments for their mental health conditions.

How can I prepare for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy?


The initial step of KAP involves a comprehensive medical and psychiatric assessment. Our healthcare team will evaluate a number of factors such as your medical history as well as any current medications and overall health status. Some health conditions, like severe liver disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure, may prevent you from receiving ketamine. Likewise, individuals with a history of substance misuse or psychosis may not be suitable candidates for KAP.

Leading up to your session, it’s essential to avoid potential nausea or other gastrointestinal side effects associated with ketamine, refrain from consuming food, beverages, caffeine, alcohol, or illicit drugs for at least eight hours prior to your session.

Our team of therapists and anesthesiologists will thoroughly discuss the KAP process with you, explaining what to anticipate during and after the therapy. They will also inform you of any potential associated risks and side effects linked to ketamine. We encourage you to ask any questions at this time in order to help ensure you fully understand the process.

Identify specific issues or goals you want to address during the sessions. Engage in mindfulness exercises including those such as meditation to improve your ability to stay focused during your session. As KAP can bring up intense emotions and memories, being in a calm and centered state can help you navigate the experience. Keep your loved ones or a support person informed about your KAP treatment plan and seek their support if necessary.

On the day of your therapy, ensure you have a trusted individual to accompany you. Driving as well as the operation of any heavy machinery is not advisable for at least 24 hours post-therapy. We advise arriving on time to allow enough time for pre-session preparation.

Our medical team will administer ketamine, typically via nasal or intravenous routes. During the session, allow yourself to experience the effects of ketamine without judgment or resistance. Share any sensations or insights as they occur, and actively engage with your therapist.

What can I expect from ketamine therapy?


The treatment process typically involves a series of multiple intravenous (IV) infusions of ketamine. Although a common course of treatment involves six infusions over two to three weeks, our team tailors the number and frequency of infusions based on your specific needs.

During the ketamine infusion, which generally takes about 40 to 45 minutes, you may experience various sensations. These include a sense of detachment from your surroundings, altered perceptions of time and space, deep relaxation, emotional release, and introspective insights. While these effects are temporary, our team will provide the necessary support and observation during the initial phase of the treatment.

In terms of benefits, many of our patients report rapid reduction in depressive symptoms, improved sleep quality, and increased motivation. In the long term, Ketamine therapy can lead to sustained benefits against depression and anxiety, improved coping mechanisms, and better self-awareness and emotional regulation.

Ketamine therapy should only be utilized as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, which may also include a combination of medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.

How do I find a qualified therapist for ketamine assisted psychotherapy in the Bay Area?


When seeking a qualified therapist for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Bay Area Ketamine Center can be your ultimate destination. With a focus on the treatment of a number of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, it’s crucial to choose a professional who is highly experienced as well as board-certified in anesthesiology such as Dr. Paul Wender.

We understand that KAP is not a one-size-fits-all approach. It combines pharmacological intervention with psychotherapeutic support. Our therapists offer individualized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs as well as goals, taking into account your medical history, current symptoms, and desired outcomes. We prioritize aligning with your values and views about mental health and healing. We invite prospective patients to set up consultations with our doctors. Visit us online for directions to our leading clinic and to learn more about our services. We also encourage everyone to visit us online to learn more about our special offers that will help you spend less and feel better! We serve patients from Los Altos CA, Sunnyvale CA, Palo Alto CA, Stanford CA, Atherton CA, Cupertino CA, and BEYOND!