Resetting The Brain With Ketamine

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Over the past several years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the promising therapeutic effects of Ketamine as a tool for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Unlike other pharmacological treatments for depression (such as SSRIs) that often take weeks or months to begin working, ketamine has the potential to begin alleviating depressive symptoms rapidly – often within 1 or 2 treatments.

 How does it work?

 Like most pharmacological medications, the exact neural- mechanisms that drive Ketamine’s rapid symptom reduction are still being uncovered.

 Researchers believe that chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can cause the brain to release the chemical cortisol, which reduces the brain’s plasticity and neural connectivity. It is believed that Ketamine can stimulate regeneration of these neural pathways and reduce symptoms of depression. Ketamine also works with the brain’s Default Mode Network. The DMN is the part of the brain responsible for repetitive thoughts and rumination. In a sense – Ketamine “reboots” the brain and allows stressed individuals a chance to ‘pause’ from their maladaptive ruminations and create space for new and more adaptive ways of thinking.

 The profound psychedelic effects of Ketamine can also expand the client’s mind to new possibilities. Many individuals report that they can look at the world with a fresh perspective and newfound understanding of themselves and others.  When Ketamine is delivered in a therapeutic setting with a safe clinician, clients can integrate their psychedelic experiences with a licensed professional and begin exploring their mind, patterns, and life experiences in a dramatically new way. This often enhances the therapeutic process and opens doors to new possibilities of healing.

 While Ketamine is not a “cure-all” for depression, it can dramatically accelerate the healing process and offer relief to individuals who are struggling.

 Learn More:

Kelly LaPorta collaborates with a Board Certified Physician at her practice and offers Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy in individual and group settings. 

To learn more and find out if you may be a good fit for Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, contact Kelly at kellylaportacounseling@gmail.com.