What is Ketamine?

Ketamine has been used safely as an anesthetic in medical settings world-wide for decades. It is a Schedule III drug, meaning it is approved for medical use and requires a prescription. In March 2019, Ketamine was approved by the U.S. FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression in adults. It is now used clinically to treat depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use disorder (SUD), suicidality, chronic pain, chronic fatigue, and other psychiatric challenges.

How does Ketamine work?

Ketamine is an NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist, meaning it works in the glutamate system of the brain, whereas most traditional antidepressant medications primarily work in the serotonin and dopamine systems. Because glutamate is the brain’s most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter, this enables ketamine to reach previously un-accessed regions of the brain.

Ketamine releases a protein known as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which promotes the growth of new neurons and stimulates neuroplasticity. BDNF is also released during aerobic exercise and has been called miracle grow for the brain. Ketamine can clear excess cortisol and “reset” the brain, helping the brain to create new connections. This can lead to increased clarity in thinking, creativity, and a sense of calm.

Finally, Ketamine reduces the functional activity in the brain’s Default Mode Network. This reduction functions as a “rebooting” of the brain, releasing the mind from the rigorous control of ruminating and repetitive thoughts, replaying sad or traumatic memories, self-criticism, and other internally directed negative thoughts.

What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is the innovative treatment approach that combines ketamine administration in a safe and supportive set and setting with psychotherapy and integration sessions. Combining ketamine with psychotherapy can yield a greater benefit than biological ketamine treatments alone. The non-ordinary consciousness states of the ketamine experience can facilitate introspection, potentially enabling individuals to explore and address deep-seated emotional or psychological issues. Integration sessions are designed to help one make sense of the material that came up in the session, capture the lessons and insights that came through, and ultimately sustain positive cognitive and behavior changes.

How do I access Ketamine Treatment?

I am currently providing KAP Integration sessions in collaboration with Dr. Brad Brooks at Collaborative Natural Health Partners in Glastonbury, CT. Current established patients at CNHP can ask their doctor or naturopath for an initial ketamine consultation. For general inquiries, please call CNHP at (860) 511-0179, or send a message through CTNaturalHealth.com.

Virtual Waiting Room for KAP

To access your scheduled telehealth session, please enter the virtual waiting room here: KAP Telehealth Waiting Room