CLINICAL SERVICES

We’re on the brink of understanding that a lot of compounds that we previously thought were drugs of abuse are turning out to be very powerful healing and growth agents.

What type of clinical services does Open Mind Collective offer?

In the United States, there has been a growing movement to decriminalize psychedelics at the city and state levels. As of 2023, more than 100 cities across the country have passed measures to deprioritize or decriminalize psychedelic substances, and several states have legalized psilocybin therapy for certain medical conditions.  With all this progress Ketamine remains one of the only legal psychedelics (though technically Ketamine isn’t a traditional psychedelic).  In the United States, the use of ketamine in psychotherapy is currently legal but highly regulated.  In 2019 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray, in conjunction with an oral antidepressant, for the treatment of depression in adults who have tried other antidepressant medicines but have not benefited from them (treatment-resistant depression).

What is Ketamine-assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a relatively new approach to therapy that involves the use of the dissociative anesthetic drug ketamine to enhance the therapeutic process. KAP is gaining popularity as a promising treatment for a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction.

During KAP, a patient is given a low-dose infusion of ketamine under the supervision of a trained medical professional. The patient is then guided through a therapy session that may involve talk therapy, mindfulness techniques, or other forms of psychotherapy. The goal of KAP is to facilitate a state of introspection and self-reflection in the patient, allowing them to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

How does Ketamine-assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) work?

Ketamine is thought to work by affecting the brain’s glutamate system, which plays a key role in regulating mood and cognition. In low doses, ketamine can induce a state of dissociation, or detachment from one’s surroundings. This can allow patients to explore their inner world without the distractions and inhibitions of everyday life.

KAP sessions typically last between 60-90 minutes and may be conducted once or twice a week for several weeks. The therapist may use various techniques to guide the patient through the experience, such as music, guided imagery, or breathing exercises. Some therapists may also incorporate elements of shamanic or spiritual practices into KAP sessions, although this is not a requirement.

Ketamine is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision, although there are some potential side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, and hallucinations. KAP is not appropriate for everyone and should only be administered by trained medical professionals in a safe and controlled environment.

While KAP is still a relatively new and evolving field, early research suggests that it may be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. Studies have shown that KAP can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and increase feelings of well-being. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of this approach to therapy.

 Is Ketamine-assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) safe?

Ketamine is generally considered safe when used under medical supervision, although there are some potential side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, and hallucinations. KAP is not appropriate for everyone and should only be administered by trained medical professionals in a safe and controlled environment.

While KAP is still a relatively new and evolving field, early research suggests that it may be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health conditions. Studies have shown that KAP can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and increase feelings of well-being. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of this approach to therapy.