Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Are you interested in trying Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)? Have you completed KAP or had other conscious-altering experiences that you would like to process with a therapist?

More and more research is being conducted to study the immense positive effects psychedelics can have in treating PTSD, addiction, anxiety, depression, and more. While this research began in the U.S. in the 50’s and proved successful in treating alcoholism and depression, it was shut down by the Nixon administration’s war on drugs, but has resurfaced recently within the U.S. with help from organizations like MAPS.

Tree of Life now offers ketamine-assisted therapy in Bedford, New Hampshire. This is a protocol that has shown promise to help people who feel “stuck” in their treatment, have depression that has been resistant to more traditional antidepressant therapies, or want to accelerate their healing process. Typically, candidates have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or a trauma-related diagnosis.

The screening process for ketamine-assisted therapy is performed by Heather Friedman and her identified ketamine prescriber. Insurance may not cover these services. Please check with your health plan before scheduling an appointment. 

Ketamine may work for patients who have not responded to traditional antidepressant therapies for the following reasons:

1. It works quickly. Ketamine has a rapid onset of action that has quick antidepressant effects. While more traditional antidepressants may not work immediately, ketamine can lead to a rapid reduction in depressive symptoms. 
2. Ketamine impacts the release of the neurotransmitter glutamate. This is its primary course of action. It antagonizes the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, leading to increased release of glutamate. This release can increase the plasticity of brain synapses and promote the formation of new neural connections, helping with mood regulation.
3. Ketamine may also help grow and repair synapses, the intercellular connections in the brain. This may help restore healthy communication between brain cells.
4. Ketamine may have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation may play a role in some cases of depression, and the reduction in inflammation may improve the mood of the patient. 
5. Ketamine may alter brain connectivity, particularly where mood is regulated. Thus, depressive symptoms may be lowered for patients who have not responded to traditional therapies.

While ketamine has been promising, it is not a cure for depression. Its effects may be temporary, and other maintenance treatment or therapy may still be needed for long-term benefits. The long-term effectiveness, safety, and optimal treatment modalities are still being researched. Please consult with qualified healthcare professionals to assess the risks and benefits based on your own circumstances.

If you would like to find out if you are a candidate for KAP, please contact: heather@treelifetherapy.com. Heather also discussed Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy on the Conversations With a Wounded Healer podcast, which you can listen to below!