Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine has long been used in anesthesia and presently is known to have a beneficial role in treating resistant depression. Additionally, it has demonstrated the potential for transdiagnostic therapeutic effects in the treatment of several other mental health and behavioral disorders including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, suicidal ideation and some forms of addiction. The mechanism of ketamine’s action in mental health and behavioral disorders is partially explained by its action on neural transmitters such as glutamate and GABA. Also, its ability to block the NMDA receptors in certain regions of the brain may play a role in its effectiveness.  

Ketamine has been shown to promote neuroplasticity through the creation of new connections within the brain. This “rewiring” process, in coordination with ongoing therapy, can assist with developing new approaches and perspectives to problems previously deemed unresolvable. Patients frequently describe less rigidity and “thought looping” resulting in feeling less "stuck” after ketamine therapy. Coupled with psychotherapy, ketamine helps to integrate these new insights and perspectives into one’s everyday life.  

Ketamine is generally considered to be a safe and well tolerated medication with low risk of side effects when administered under supervision in an appropriate setting. Clinical results are frequently seen soon after the ketamine journey.