Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP): A Transformative Modality
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a holistic approach that combines ketamine treatment with psychotherapy to help eligible clients achieve breakthroughs and sustained symptom improvement. This modality is particularly effective for those who feel stuck after trying traditional methods.
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a safe, legal, and effective medication used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Its rapid antidepressant and mood-enhancing effects often begin within 1-2 hours of treatment and can last up to two weeks.
Ketamine works by blocking NMDA receptors and stimulating AMPA receptors in the brain. This process fosters new synaptic connections, boosts neural circuits that regulate mood and stress, and enhances neuroplasticity, offering lasting symptom relief.
How Does Ketamine Feel?
The effects of ketamine are typically pleasant and last around 45 minutes. Many clients report feeling “far from” their body, experiencing shifts in perception that can feel expansive and insightful. While it may be challenging to articulate the experience, clients often describe the insights as clear and transformative.
During a session, you will remain in a comfortable, reclining position. A reduction in motor and verbal abilities may occur. After the ketamine effects subside, we will use the remaining time to process and discuss your experience. The mood and neurological benefits can last up to two weeks post-treatment. Each experience is unique.
How Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Works
1. Initial Consultation with Journey Clinical
Your journey begins with an evaluation via Zoom with Journey Clinical’s medical team. They will review your medical and psychiatric history, explain the treatment, and determine eligibility for KAP. If eligible, a personalized ketamine prescription and monitoring plan will be created, and your medication will be shipped to your home.
2. Preparation Sessions
Before your first dosing session, we will meet for preparation sessions to align on the process and set intentions for your KAP experience. These sessions are similar to regular therapy and ensure a strong foundation for the treatment.
3. KAP Dosing Sessions
A typical dosing session lasts two hours and can take place in person or remotely. During the session, you will self-administer your ketamine lozenge, recline comfortably, wear an eye mask, and listen to calming music. While the experience is largely internal, I will be present to provide support as needed.
4. Integration Sessions
Following each dosing session, we will meet for integration therapy to explore the thoughts, insights, and emotions that surfaced. These sessions help you process your experience and prepare for future treatments.
5. Follow-Up Consultations
Journey Clinical’s medical team will schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and manage prescription refills. These consultations occur at least quarterly, depending on your treatment plan.
What is the Cost of Treatment?
While medical intake and follow-ups are not covered by insurance, they are often eligible for out-of-network reimbursement. Superbills can also be provided for preparation and integration sessions.
- Preparation and Integration Sessions: $200 (55 minutes)
- KAP Dosing Sessions: $400 (2-hour session)
- Journey Clinical Medical Costs:
- Initial consultation and medication for two sessions: $338
- Ongoing treatment for six sessions, including consultation and medication: $298
Packages
Trial KAP Package
Ideal for exploring KAP without a long-term commitment. Includes one preparation session, two 2-hour medicine sessions, and two 55-minute integration sessions.
Cost: $1,300 (Save $100)
Standard Protocol Package
Designed to follow the Ketamine Research Foundation’s protocol. Includes one preparation session, eight 2-hour medicine sessions, and eight 55-minute integration sessions, administered over 8-16 weeks.
Cost: $4,500 (Save $500)
KAP is a groundbreaking approach for those seeking profound, lasting relief from mental health challenges. Whether you’re exploring the trial package or committing to a full protocol, KAP offers a unique opportunity for transformation and growth.
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