Ketamine-Assisted Therapy

Expanding Mental Health Treatment at North Boulder Counseling

In recent years, ketamine-assisted therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders.

In recent years, ketamine-assisted therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood disorders. At North Boulder Counseling, we are committed to providing innovative treatment options to our established patients. This page will explore the benefits of ketamine-assisted therapy, discuss known contraindications, and emphasize the importance of this therapy being limited to our established patients.

What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?

Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has been shown to have rapid antidepressant effects, particularly in individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments. Unlike conventional antidepressants that can take weeks to show effects, ketamine can provide relief in a matter of hours or days. Ketamine-assisted therapy combines the administration of ketamine with psychotherapy, allowing patients to explore their thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment while experiencing the therapeutic effects of the medication.

How Does Ketamine Therapy Work At North Boulder Counseling?

There is a specific protocol to Ketamine therapy (or Ketamine assisted therapy: KAT) in order for it to be ethical. Safe and legally part of the therapeutic process. Here are the steps to the psychedelic assisted therapy process with North Boulder Counseling (NBC).

Become an established client at NBC. We only offer KAT for clients who are also seeking other therapies at NBC. If you’re not already a client at NBc but would like to begin ketamine therapy, you can see a provider who offers KAT and discuss with them if you would be a good fit and how any ongoing care would look after the KAT protocol is completed.
Meet with the KAT therapist to see if KAT is a good fit for you nd would support your therapeutic goals
Complete an online medical and psychiatric assessment with our prescribing partners, who will determine if there are any confounding medical or psychiatric diagnosis. If you are cleared through them, they will prescribe the medication.
Prep Counseling Session/s: you will complete 1-3 one hour medicine prep sessions with our KAT therapist to help you determine goals for the medicine session and prepare emotionally for that session.
Medicine session: This is a 3 hour session in which you will take ketamine and have your therapeutic experience.
Integration session/s: you will have 1-3 integration sessions post medicine session in order for you to integrate the experiences you had in session and maximize longer term benefits form the experience.
Subsequent sessions: Working with your therapist you may choose to complete up to two of these sessions per week for several weeks, or you may decide one session feels complete.

What Are the Benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy

Rapid Relief from Symptoms: One of the most significant advantages of ketamine therapy is its ability to provide quick relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many patients report feeling better within hours of their first treatment, making it a valuable option for those in crisis.

Effective for Treatment-Resistant Conditions: For individuals who have tried multiple medications without success, ketamine therapy offers a new hope. Studies have shown that many patients with treatment-resistant depression experience significant improvement with ketamine.

Neurochemical Changes: Ketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system, promoting the growth of new neural connections. This can help to “reset” the brain’s pathways related to mood and perception, leading to lasting improvements in mental health.

Enhanced Psychotherapy: The unique state induced by ketamine can facilitate deeper exploration during therapy sessions. Patients often find that they can access repressed emotions and thoughts more easily, enhancing the therapeutic process.

Safe and Well-Tolerated: When administered in a controlled setting, ketamine is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Side effects are usually mild and temporary, including dissociation, dizziness, and nausea.

Improved Functionality: Many patients report not only a reduction in symptoms but also improved daily functioning. This includes better relationships, increased motivation, and enhanced overall well-being.

Minimal Side Effects: Compared to traditional antidepressants, ketamine has a relatively low risk of side effects. While some individuals may experience transient side effects, they are generally manageable and resolve quickly.

Known Contraindications

While ketamine-assisted therapy has shown promise, it is essential to consider individual health circumstances. The following are known contraindications for ketamine therapy:

Uncontrolled Hypertension: Patients with significantly elevated blood pressure may need to stabilize their condition before undergoing treatment, as ketamine can temporarily raise blood pressure.

History of Substance Abuse: Individuals with a history of substance abuse disorders may be at risk for developing dependence on ketamine, and careful evaluation is necessary.

Severe Cardiovascular Disease: Patients with serious heart conditions should be assessed thoroughly before treatment, as ketamine can affect heart rate and blood pressure.

Psychotic Disorders: Those with active schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders may not be suitable candidates, as ketamine can exacerbate symptoms.

Pregnancy and Lactation: The effects of ketamine on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not well understood, and caution is advised.
Allergic Reactions: Individuals with known allergies to ketamine or its components should avoid this treatment.

It is vital for patients to discuss their complete medical history with their healthcare provider at North Boulder Counseling to determine if ketamine-assisted therapy is an appropriate option for them.

Limiting Therapy to Established Patients

At North Boulder Counseling, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our patients. Ketamine-assisted therapy is exclusively available to established patients for several reasons:

Comprehensive Understanding of Patient History: Established patients have undergone thorough assessments, allowing our clinicians to understand their mental health history, treatment responses, and overall health. This knowledge is crucial in determining the appropriateness of ketamine therapy.

Personalized Treatment Plans: By working with established patients, our clinicians can tailor the treatment plan to each individual’s needs, ensuring a more effective and safe experience.

Ongoing Support: Patients undergoing ketamine therapy require close monitoring and support. As established patients, individuals will continue to receive holistic care throughout their treatment journey.

Building Trust: The therapeutic relationship between clinician and patient is vital for the success of any treatment. Limiting ketamine therapy to established patients fosters trust and communication, essential components for effective therapy.