Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy

What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?

A groundbreaking and compassionate approach to healing, especially in the realms of trauma and mental health challenges, as a Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy practitioner, I've witnessed the profound impact that it can have on one’s journey toward healing and self-discovery.

This method uniquely combines therapeutic doses of ketamine, known for facilitating deep psychological insights, with supportive psychotherapy, creating a transformative, supportive, healing experience.

The Essence & Healing Potential of KAP

At the heart of KAP lies the synergy between the pharmacological effects of ketamine and the supportive framework of psychotherapy. In this sacred therapeutic space, clients are empowered to explore their inner landscapes, confront emotional blockages, and delve into the sources of their pain and trauma. This journey often leads to significant breakthroughs in self-understanding, emotional processing, and lasting transformation. KAP is a testament to the innate healing potential within each individual. It blends the advancements of modern medicine with the timeless wisdom of psychotherapeutic practices. This approach opens doors to profound personal growth and healing, offering a pathway to a more connected and fulfilling life.

The Role of a KAP Facilitator

The role of a KAP facilitator is that of a compassionate guide. We help clients navigate the complexities of their inner experiences, set meaningful intentions for their journey, and integrate these profound experiences into everyday life. The goal extends beyond symptom alleviation; it's about fostering a deeper connection with oneself, enhancing emotional resilience, self-compassion, and a renewed sense of life's purpose.

How can we use Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?

Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is at the cutting edge of mental health innovation, combining the therapeutic effects of ketamine with professional psychotherapeutic support. This groundbreaking approach has demonstrated significant promise in treating various mental health conditions, particularly when traditional treatments have proven insufficient.

Groundbreaking Research Supporting KAP

The studies noted below are just a glimpse into the extensive body of research supporting KAP. With hundreds of studies validating its effectiveness across various conditions, KAP is emerging as a transformative approach in mental health care, offering hope and healing where it is most needed.

Study on Treatment-Resistant Depression

A pivotal study by Murrough et al. (2013) demonstrated the rapid antidepressant effects of ketamine in treatment-resistant depression. This randomized controlled trial provided significant evidence of ketamine's efficacy, opening new avenues for depression treatment where traditional methods fall short.

Effectiveness in Chronic PTSD

Feder et al. (2014) conducted a study focusing on the potential of ketamine in treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The research indicated that a single infusion of ketamine could reduce PTSD symptom severity, showcasing its potential as a powerful tool in trauma-related therapies.

Impact on Suicidal Ideation

A study by Grunebaum et al. (2018) revealed ketamine's effectiveness in reducing suicidal ideation. The randomized controlled trial found that ketamine swiftly reduced suicidal thoughts, providing a critical option for crisis intervention in severe cases of mental health emergencies.

How to get started & what to expect…

Step 1: Schedule Your Intake Appointment with Skylight Psychedelics

Your first step is to schedule an intake appointment with Skylight Psychedelics. This initial meeting is crucial as it's where your journey begins. During this session, their compassionate team will assess your needs, answer your questions, and determine if KAP is the right path for you. If it is, they will prescribe the appropriate medication. Skylight’s dedicated pharmacy will send the medication to your home before your first session.

To schedule an intake appointment with Skylight Psychedelics, you can visit their website using the following link: Schedule an Intake Appointment.

Step 2: Schedule Your Therapy Sessions with SPS

Once your medication has been prescribed, your next step is to schedule your therapy sessions. The standard course of treatment typically consists of 6-8 sessions with each session lasting 1-2 hours. Sessions are conducted once a week or biweekly, depending on your unique needs and schedule. You will not be able to drive immediately after your KAP sessions. Your safety is important to us and we ask that you please coordinate a ride home for each of your sessions.

What happens during a KAP session?

The Flow of Each KAP Session

Each session is structured to maximize your comfort and the effectiveness of the therapy.

  • Intention Setting: At the beginning of each session, you'll spend time setting intentions. This is a gentle, guided process that helps align your mind and heart with the goals of your healing journey. Intention setting is a powerful tool that prepares you to enter your experience with purpose and clarity.

  • Administration of Medicine: After setting your intention, you will self-administer the ketamine under your KAP Facilitator’s supervision. It's important to be in a comfortable, safe space as the medicine takes effect, which usually happens quite quickly. Your blood pressure and pulse will be monitored during your session as you experience the effects of the medication.

  • The Ketamine Experience: The effects of the ketamine typically last about 40 minutes. During this time, you might experience a range of sensations and insights. Your KAP Facilitator will be there to support you, ensuring a safe and nurturing environment as you explore the depths of your consciousness.

  • Processing Time: After the effects of the medicine subside, there will be a period of processing. This is a crucial part of the session where your KAP Facilitator will help you make sense of your experience. It's a time to reflect, discuss, and begin integrating your insights into your life.

Please note: You will not be able to drive immediately following your KAP session. Please be sure to coordinate a ride home for each of your sessions.

Post-Session Integration

After your session, you're encouraged to engage in activities that help consolidate and integrate your experience. This might include journaling, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness. Remember, the journey doesn’t end when the session does; integration is a vital part of the healing process.

Our KAP Partners

Starlight Psychedelics offers a range of psychedelic-assisted therapies, focusing on holistic healing and mental well-being. Their website provides details on therapy options, patient resources, and their approach to psychedelic treatments. Click here to learn more.

PRATI is dedicated to advancing the field of psychedelic medicine through research and training. Their website offers insights into their training programs, research initiatives, and educational resources for professionals in the field of psychedelic therapy. Click here to learn more.

Dr. Stevie Stanford is a certified practitioner of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, having completed rigorous training through the Psychedelic Research and Training Institute (PRATI). PRATI is renowned for its commitment to advancing the field of psychedelic medicine. It provides comprehensive, evidence-based training for professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped to facilitate transformative healing experiences. PRATI's dedication to integrating scientific research with therapeutic practices makes it a leader in the field, enhancing the legitimacy and effectiveness of psychedelic-assisted therapies. Dr. Stevie's certification through this esteemed group is a testament to their expertise and dedication to providing the highest standard of care in psychedelic therapy.

Podcasts & Resources

Podcasts & Resources

  • Episode #73: John Moos, MD discusses his transition from trauma surgeon to psychedelic healer including research and current status of psychedelics for healing.

    Listen here.

  • Ketamine: Benefits and Risks for Depression, PTSD & Neuroplasticity

    Listen here.

  • A Dose of Hope: Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for PTSD And Other Conditions with Dr. Dan Engle

    Listen here.

  • Internal Family Systems and Psychedelics with Dick Schwartz

    Listen here.

References:

  • Murrough, J. W., Iosifescu, D. V., Chang, L. C., Al Jurdi, R. K., Green, C. E., Perez, A. M., Iqbal, S., Pillemer, S., Foulkes, A., Shah, A., Charney, D. S., & Mathew, S. J. (2013). Antidepressant efficacy of ketamine in treatment-resistant major depression: A two-site randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Psychiatry, 170(10), 1134-1142.

  • Feder, A., Parides, M. K., Murrough, J. W., Perez, A. M., Morgan, J. E., Saxena, S., Kirkwood, K., Aan Het Rot, M., Lapidus, K. A. B., Wan, L. B., Iosifescu, D., & Charney, D. S. (2014). Efficacy of intravenous ketamine for treatment of chronic posttraumatic stress disorder: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 71(6), 681-688.

  • Grunebaum, M. F., Ellis, S. P., Keilp, J. G., Moitra, V. K., Cooper, T. B., Marver, J. E., Burke, A. K., Milak, M. S., Sublette, M. E., Oquendo, M. A., & Mann, J. J. (2018). Ketamine versus midazolam in bipolar depression with suicidal thoughts: A randomized clinical trial. American Journal of Psychiatry, 175(10), 965-973.