What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine is a Schedule III medication with a long history of safe use as an anesthetic. It is now used off-label to treat depression, PTSD, alcoholism, substance dependence, and other psychiatric conditions. KAT combines ketamine with therapeutic support to help facilitate meaningful psychological change.
Ketamine works through the glutamate (NMDA) system—a different pathway than antidepressants like SSRIs. At therapeutic doses, it produces mild dissociative, anxiolytic, and potentially psychedelic effects. Sessions typically last 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, during which you remain conscious but in an altered, internally focused state.
Because ketamine is used off-label for psychiatric purposes, insurance typically does not cover KAT services.
Treatment Plan & Expected Timeline
You will be asked to commit to an initial series of 3 KAT sessions, after which your progress will be reassessed. Most clients benefit from 6 sessions total. Each session is unique; intensity and experience vary. You are encouraged to set a gentle intention before each session while remaining open to what unfolds.
Benefits—including reduced depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms—may begin during or shortly after treatment and can accumulate over weeks. Integration therapy (working with a therapist after sessions) is strongly recommended to maximize long-term results.
Eligibility & Contraindications
You have been assessed as an appropriate candidate for KAT. Ketamine is NOT appropriate for individuals who are:
- Pregnant or not protected against pregnancy during treatment
- Diagnosed with untreated hypertension, hyperthyroidism, or a history of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, aneurysm)
- Diagnosed with severe psychotic disorders or certain serious personality disorders (e.g., Narcissistic Personality Disorder)
Potential Risks
At therapeutic doses, side effects are generally mild and temporary. They may include:
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate during the session
- Dizziness, nausea, or vomiting (minimized by fasting and using an eye cover)
- Double vision, rapid eye movements, or temporary appetite loss
- Temporarily confusing or emotionally difficult experiences
- Psychological cravings with heavy recreational use (not expected at therapeutic doses)
Ketamine has abuse potential similar to other hallucinogens. It should only be used under medical supervision. Repeated high-dose recreational abuse has been linked to bladder damage; this does not occur at KAT doses.
Session Procedures
For your safety and well-being, the following apply to every KAT session:
- Fast for 3 hours before your session; hydrate well the day of (stop fluids 1 hour before)
- Do not consume alcohol within 24 hours before or after ketamine
- Wear or accept an eye cover during the session to minimize disorientation
- Follow all therapist instructions until the session is formally concluded
- Remain at the session location until your therapist clears you to leave
- Arrange transportation home in advance — you may NOT drive on the day of treatment (non-negotiable)
Your heart rate and blood pressure will be checked before and after each session. Soft, calming music will be played during your experience. Your therapist will be present throughout to provide support.
Monitoring & Confidentiality
Your therapist will hold space and remain present throughout your session, assist with integration, and provide support as needed. Your privacy and records are confidential. A signed release is required before sharing records with other providers.
Alternative Treatments
Standard treatments for depression, PTSD, and related conditions include antidepressants, mood stabilizers, psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). KAT is an off-label, voluntary option. You may pursue other treatments alongside or instead of KAT at any time.