What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?

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Learn how Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy works

What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative and promising approach that merges the benefits of psychotherapy with the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic.

This therapeutic technique has gained traction in recent years as a potential treatment for various mental health conditions, offering new possibilities for healing and personal transformation. In this blog post, we will delve into what Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is and what's involved during the procedure.

Understanding Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy:

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is a guided and controlled process where our anesthesia professional, nurse anesthetist Frank Valenti CRNA, MS, NSPM-C, administers ketamine in a safe and comfortable setting. Our Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy program is in partnership with Plymouth Anesthesia Associates, whom Frank owns and operates. The client will be given headphones and a blackout eye mask to reduce any external distractions. The use of ketamine induces an altered state of consciousness that allows clients to explore their thoughts, emotions, and past experiences more deeply.

The Procedure:

Screening and Assessment:

Before a client undergoes Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, a thorough screening and assessment is conducted by our expert staff. This ensures that the client is suitable for the treatment and helps our therapists tailor the experience to meet individual needs.

Intention Setting Session:

The client and therapist discuss goals, intentions, concerns, and any leftover details from previous therapy sessions. This pre-ketamine intention session may be performed the same day as a ketamine treatment or up to several days prior.

Session Setup:

During a typical KAP session, the client is seated in a cozy, therapy room with calming elements such as soft lighting and comfortable chairs. Soothing music and eye shades are also provided to enhance relaxation and introspection.

Ketamine Administration:

Our nurse anesthetist Frank Valenti CRNA, MS, NSPM-C administers a carefully measured dose of ketamine intravenously to induce the desired altered state. The dosage is precise and controlled, and our nurse anesthetist closely monitors the patient throughout the experience.

Guided Exploration:

Throughout the ketamine experience, the therapist remains by the client’s side, providing emotional support and gentle guidance. The client is encouraged to explore their thoughts, feelings, and memories in a safe and non-judgmental environment.

Emotional Release and Insight:

Ketamine's effects can vary from person to person, but many people report heightened emotional release and profound insights during the session. The altered state allows for the reevaluation of past experiences, thought patterns, and belief systems, leading to potential breakthroughs and personal growth.

Integration Session:

After the ketamine effects wear off, the therapist and client engage in a post-session discussion to process and integrate the experiences. This integration phase is vital for translating the insights gained during the session into actionable steps for continued healing and growth.

Safety and Precautions:

It's crucial to note that Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy should only be administered by trained professionals in a controlled medical setting. The well-being and safety of the client are of utmost importance to us throughout the entire process. Additionally, KAP may not be suitable for everyone, and that is why we require a comprehensive assessment to be conducted before considering this treatment.

The Potential Benefits:

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy has shown promise in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction. Research indicates that ketamine's effects on the brain can lead to long-lasting changes, making it a potentially powerful tool in mental health care.

Conclusion:

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy offers a unique and transformative approach to mental health treatment, providing clients with an opportunity for profound self-exploration and healing. While the field is still evolving, KAP has the potential to change lives and provide hope for those seeking relief from various mental health challenges. If you or someone you know is considering this treatment, please contact our office to determine if Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is a suitable option.

What is a Stellate Ganglion Block

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Understand the cutting-edge treatment of a Stellate Ganglion Block

Often referred to as the "Swiss army knife" of regional blocks. It works by blocking neural transmissions, which in turn, alleviates your sympathetic nervous system from the unnecessary overproduction of symptoms. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) is increasingly being used for treating various medical conditions such as:

• PTSD

• Depression & Anxiety

• Trauma

• Long Covid

• Menopause

• Pain Management

We are seeing dramatic results for those suffering from physiologic hyperarousal (fight or flight response), hypervigilance, feelings of perceived threat, and insomnia.

The Procedure

The SGB procedure involves injecting a local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a cluster of nerves located in the neck, on either side of the voice box (larynx). The stellate ganglion is part of the sympathetic nervous system, which regulates various involuntary functions in the body.

The procedure is typically performed under X-ray guidance or ultrasound imaging to ensure accurate needle placement. The patient is usually given a local anesthetic to numb the injection site and may receive light sedation to help them relax during the procedure. For our SGB procedures, we utilize ultrasound imaging to ensure accuracy.

The local anesthetic injected during an SGB temporarily blocks the sympathetic nerve signals, interrupting the transmission of pain and altering blood flow patterns. The duration of relief varies among individuals. In some cases, multiple SGBs may be required to achieve long-term relief or manage the underlying condition effectively.

It's important to note that stellate ganglion blocks are medical procedures that should only be performed by trained healthcare professionals in an appropriate clinical setting. The decision to undergo an SGB should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider who can assess the individual's specific medical needs and determine the potential benefits and risks of the procedure. If you would like to schedule a consultation with our expert staff, please visit our contact page.

Visit our Stellate Ganglion Block page to learn more about this procedure.

5 Reasons Why Summer Is the Best Time For Adolescents and Teens To Seek Help

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5 Reasons Why Seeking Help in Summer Is A Great Time for Kids

Seeking help and being open to receiving help is critical for anyone who suffers from mental health issues. Often during the school year, kids can be consumed with all kinds of things including their heavy curriculum load and extracurricular activities such as sports teams. Summer can be a great time for adolescents and teens to seek help for mental health for several reasons:

1. Increased Free Time: Summer break often means a break from academic responsibilities and extracurricular activities. This can provide adolescents and teens with more free time to focus on their mental health without the added stress and time constraints of schoolwork. They can dedicate more time to therapy sessions, self-care activities, and exploring various mental health resources.

2. Reduced Academic Pressure: During the school year, students may experience significant pressure to perform well academically, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. The summer break allows them to step away from academic stressors temporarily, providing a better opportunity to address and manage their mental health concerns without the additional pressure.

3. Access to Professional Help: Many mental health professionals offer more flexible schedules during the summer months. This increased availability means adolescents and teens can more easily schedule appointments with therapists, counselors, or psychiatrists. They can seek professional help, discuss their concerns, and receive guidance or treatment without worrying about conflicts with their academic commitments.

4. Supportive Social Environment: Summer often brings opportunities for adolescents and teens to connect with peers in various settings such as summer camps, recreational activities, or community programs. These environments can foster supportive relationships and social interactions that contribute positively to mental health. Adolescents and teens may feel more comfortable seeking help during this time, knowing that they have a network of friends and peers who can provide emotional support.

5. Nature and Outdoor Activities: Summer offers the chance to engage in outdoor activities and spend time in nature, which can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Being outdoors, whether it's going for a hike, swimming, or simply enjoying the sunshine, can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall mental health. This can create a conducive environment for seeking help and engaging in therapy or self-reflection.

It's important to note that while summer can be an opportune time for seeking help, mental health support is valuable at any time of the year. If adolescents and teens require assistance, it's crucial to reach out to mental health professionals or trusted individuals regardless of the season. The staff at Growing Roots Integrative Health and Wellness accept clients year round (based on clinician availability) and we also welcome new clients to join our ongoing workshops. If you would like to request an appointment with one of our staff, please contact us!