Key Takeaways
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is only appropriate for adults 18 and older—it is not legally prescribed for minors.
Ketamine offers rapid relief from treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation, often within hours or days.
Unlike traditional antidepressants, ketamine works through the glutamate system, enhancing neuroplasticity and allowing for emotional breakthroughs.
KAP is most effective when combined with integration therapy, helping patients apply insights and create lasting psychological change.
Short-term side effects such as nausea or dissociation are typically mild and resolve quickly under professional supervision.
A structured treatment plan typically involves 6–9 sessions over 2–3 weeks, followed by integration and optional maintenance phases.
Certain medications (e.g., benzodiazepines or lamotrigine) can interfere with ketamine’s effects—collaboration with your healthcare team is essential.
Long-term results are best achieved through a holistic approach, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and collaborative care.
All sessions must be conducted in a licensed clinical environment with trained professionals present at all times.
Pivot Counseling offers personalized, compassionate care for adults seeking new tools to move beyond stuckness and reclaim emotional health.
What Is Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine therapy is a cutting-edge mental health treatment that utilizes low doses of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine to alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related conditions. Initially developed and approved by the FDA in 1970 as an anesthetic, ketamine has more recently gained widespread attention in the psychiatric community for its rapid-acting antidepressant effects, especially in adults experiencing treatment-resistant depression (TRD)—a condition in which individuals have not responded to two or more traditional antidepressants.
Unlike conventional therapies that often take weeks or months to show noticeable improvement, ketamine has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms of depression within hours to days of treatment. For individuals in emotional crisis or with persistent suicidal ideation, this can be life-saving.
But ketamine therapy isn’t just about fast symptom relief. When combined with psychotherapy—commonly known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP)—the experience can open a “window of neuroplasticity”, allowing patients to process trauma, shift negative thought patterns, and build new psychological resilience.
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Ketamine appears to temporarily enhance this flexibility, offering a rare and powerful opportunity to reframe long-held cognitive and emotional patterns.
Supporting Research:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Ketamine: A Rapidly Acting Antidepressant
Duman RS, Sanacora G, Krystal JH. “Altered connectivity in depression: GABA and glutamate neurotransmitter deficits and reversal by novel treatments.” Neuron (2019)
Understanding Ketamine’s Medical Use
The mechanisms that make ketamine so effective in psychiatric treatment differ significantly from those of traditional antidepressants. Most antidepressants focus on modulating serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine—neurotransmitters that regulate mood over longer periods. Ketamine, by contrast, exerts its effects by blocking NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors, which are part of the glutamate system, the brain’s most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter network.
By modulating this glutamatergic activity, ketamine triggers a cascade of intracellular processes, including the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which supports neuron growth and connectivity. This unique action is believed to “reset” or disrupt dysfunctional brain circuits associated with depression, PTSD, and chronic anxiety—essentially helping the brain form new, healthier thought patterns.
Medical Formats of Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine is delivered in clinical settings through several different methods, depending on the patient’s needs, history, and treatment goals:
IV Infusion: The most studied and precise method, delivering ketamine directly into the bloodstream under close monitoring.
Intramuscular Injection (IM): A needle-based alternative for those who want a less time-intensive option than IV.
Sublingual Tablets or Lozenges: Dissolved under the tongue and absorbed through oral mucosa. Often used in at-home protocols, but only with medical supervision.
Intranasal Spray (e.g., Spravato®): The FDA-approved esketamine (a variant of ketamine) nasal spray, typically used alongside an oral antidepressant and limited to treatment-resistant depression in adults.
Each method has its own absorption rate, onset time, and duration of effect. Treatment must be supervised by licensed medical professionals trained in ketamine administration and mental health care. Dosage and frequency are customized for each patient based on their psychiatric profile, medical history, and therapeutic progress.
Supporting Research:
American Psychiatric Association: Ketamine and Esketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Abdallah CG, Sanacora G, Duman RS, Krystal JH. “The neurobiology of depression, ketamine and rapid-acting antidepressants.” Trends in Neurosciences (2015)
How It Differs from Antidepressants
Ketamine’s mechanism of action is fundamentally different from that of traditional antidepressants, making it a promising alternative for individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or other persistent mental health conditions.
Most antidepressants—such as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)—work by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain. These medications often take 4 to 6 weeks to show measurable improvement, and many patients may not respond at all.
Ketamine, on the other hand, acts on the glutamate system, the most prevalent excitatory neurotransmitter pathway in the brain. Specifically, it blocks NMDA receptors, which leads to a surge in glutamate and a downstream release of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)—a protein that supports neuroplasticity, learning, and memory.
This unique pharmacological profile allows ketamine to:
Deliver rapid antidepressant effects, often within hours of administration
Enhance synaptic connectivity and promote new neural pathways
Interrupt negative cognitive loops associated with chronic depression
Serve as a catalyst for emotional processing during psychotherapy
These effects are especially beneficial for individuals who are stuck in emotional ruts, unable to engage with traditional therapy due to persistent numbness or despair.
Supporting Research:
Duman RS & Aghajanian GK. “Synaptic Dysfunction in Depression: Potential Therapeutic Targets.” Science (2012)
Krystal JH et al. “NMDA receptor antagonism and the rapid-acting antidepressant properties of ketamine.” Archives of General Psychiatry (2011)
In short, ketamine doesn’t just alleviate symptoms—it may help restructure the brain to support healthier patterns of thought, perception, and behavior, providing a valuable reset for adults battling chronic emotional distress.
Why Consider Ketamine for Adults?
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is increasingly recognized as a viable option for adults aged 18 and older who are struggling with severe, treatment-resistant mental health conditions. For those who have tried multiple medications, therapy modalities, or holistic approaches without success, ketamine may offer a new path forward.
You Might Be a Candidate for Ketamine Therapy If You:
Have been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
Experience chronic anxiety that interferes with daily functioning
Live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or complex trauma
Suffer from suicidal ideation and need rapid symptom stabilization
Have found minimal relief from SSRIs, therapy, or lifestyle changes
Unlike conventional treatments, which often fail to address the underlying emotional rigidity or trauma at the root of many mood disorders, ketamine may open the door to emotional flexibility and healing. By promoting neuroplasticity, patients often experience a shift in mindset, perspective, and self-awareness that makes therapy more effective and change more sustainable.
The Power of Combining Ketamine with Psychotherapy
When paired with therapy, ketamine enhances the brain’s receptivity to change—making it easier to explore painful memories, challenge distorted beliefs, and adopt healthier coping strategies. Many patients report:
Feeling “unstuck” for the first time in years
Gaining clarity about the sources of their emotional pain
Feeling motivated to participate more fully in treatment
Experiencing a renewed sense of hope and purpose
Supporting Research:
Wilkinson ST et al. “Cognitive Behavior Therapy May Sustain Antidepressant Effects of Ketamine.” The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (2017)
Feder A et al. “Efficacy of ketamine for treatment-resistant PTSD: A randomized clinical trial.” JAMA Psychiatry (2021)
At Pivot Counseling, we help adults navigate these breakthroughs in a structured, therapeutic environment that ensures safety, integration, and long-term benefit. For many, this combination of pharmacological and psychological care leads not just to symptom relief—but to real, lasting transformation.
Research Behind Ketamine Therapy
Over the past two decades, ketamine has been the focus of intense research for its unprecedented effectiveness in treating major depressive disorder, particularly in individuals who haven’t responded to conventional antidepressants. What was once viewed primarily as an anesthetic is now increasingly recognized as a breakthrough in psychiatric medicine.
Key Findings from Clinical Research:
A meta-analysis of 83 studies published in The Lancet Psychiatry (2021) concluded that ketamine offers rapid and robust antidepressant effects compared to placebo in treatment-resistant depression.
A Yale University study found that a single ketamine infusion produced significant symptom improvement in up to 70% of individuals with TRD.
In a 2021 randomized clinical trial, JAMA Psychiatry reported ketamine’s success in reducing PTSD symptomsin patients who had been resistant to other forms of care.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has highlighted ketamine’s role in reducing suicidal ideation within hours, even in severely depressed patients.
Sources:
The Lancet Psychiatry (2021): Efficacy of ketamine for major depressive episodes
JAMA Psychiatry (2021): Ketamine for treatment-resistant PTSD
Why This Research Matters:
Traditional antidepressants often take 4–6 weeks to work—if they work at all. This delay can be debilitating for patients in crisis. Ketamine’s rapid onset and high response rates position it as a potential lifeline for adults experiencing profound mental health suffering, especially those facing suicidal thoughts or deep emotional inertia.
While research is ongoing—particularly regarding long-term use and relapse prevention—the scientific consensus supports ketamine’s role as a safe, effective, and transformative option when administered responsibly in a clinical setting.
Potential Benefits
The potential benefits of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) extend well beyond rapid symptom relief. By simultaneously addressing neurobiology and emotional processing, KAP can unlock breakthroughs that many patients previously believed were out of reach.
1. Rapid Reduction in Depressive Symptoms
Many patients feel a noticeable decrease in depressive symptoms within 1 to 24 hours after their first session. This can be life-changing for those who have spent years cycling through medications and therapies with minimal effect.
2. Disruption of Negative Thought Loops
Ketamine’s dissociative effects allow patients to observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment or reactivity, which can help interrupt chronic rumination and self-critical inner narratives.
3. Increased Neuroplasticity
Research suggests that ketamine enhances the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. This opens a unique therapeutic window during which patients may experience more emotional flexibility and insight, making therapy significantly more effective.
Supporting Study:
Duman RS, Aghajanian GK. “Synaptic dysfunction in depression: potential therapeutic targets.” Science (2012)
4. Improved Engagement in Psychotherapy
By alleviating the emotional heaviness of depression or trauma, ketamine helps patients show up more fully in therapy. They may feel more open, curious, and motivated to explore difficult experiences or patterns.
5. Reduction in Suicidal Ideation
Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that ketamine reduces suicidal thoughts quickly, often within hours of administration, which is a stark contrast to the delayed timeline of traditional medications.
Study Reference:
Wilkinson ST et al. “Cognitive behavior therapy may sustain antidepressant effects of ketamine.” The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry (2017)
6. Sense of Emotional Relief or Renewal
Many patients describe a renewed connection to their emotions, increased self-compassion, and an expanded sense of possibility after ketamine sessions. This can foster personal growth and renewed purpose.
Together, these benefits make ketamine therapy not just an intervention—but a potential catalyst for transformation, especially when guided by skilled clinicians and integrated into a holistic mental health plan.
Risks and Safety
While ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has shown remarkable promise for adults with treatment-resistant depression and related conditions, it is essential to understand the associated risks. As with any medical or psychiatric intervention, informed consent and safety protocols are critical to ensuring positive outcomes.
Short-Term Side Effects
In clinical settings, most patients tolerate ketamine well. However, common acute side effects during or shortly after a session may include:
Dissociation or a feeling of detachment from body or surroundings
Nausea or vomiting (especially with IV or IM administration)
Dizziness or imbalance
Increased heart rate or blood pressure
Mild hallucinations or perceptual shifts
Blurred vision or altered depth perception
These effects are usually short-lived, resolving within 1–2 hours post-session. Most patients return to daily activities the following day, though driving or operating machinery is prohibited immediately after treatment.
Source:
Short B, Fong J, Galvez V, Shelker W, Loo CK. “Side-effects associated with ketamine use in depression: a systematic review.” Lancet Psychiatry (2018)
American Journal of Psychiatry (2021): Consensus Statement on Ketamine Treatment for Depression
Long-Term Risks
Long-term or high-frequency ketamine use—especially outside of medical supervision—can lead to:
Cognitive impairment (e.g., attention or memory issues)
Bladder irritation or inflammation (rare, and mostly observed in recreational misuse)
Tolerance or dependence (typically in non-clinical, high-dose, unsupervised use)
Clinical protocols, like those followed at Pivot Counseling, involve limited dosing schedules, therapeutic integration, and continuous monitoring to prevent overuse or psychological dependence.
Source:
Morgan CJA, Curran HV. “Ketamine use: a review.” Addiction (2012)
Medical Supervision is Non-Negotiable
Ketamine is a powerful psychoactive substance. Therefore, all treatments must be:
Conducted in a clinical setting
Administered by trained professionals
Accompanied by psychological support and integration therapy
Our team at Pivot Counseling monitors every session closely, from vital signs to patient-reported experiences, to ensure your safety and comfort throughout the entire process.
How the Therapy Process Works
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is more than just a medical treatment—it’s a structured journey that combines science-backed medication with compassionate psychological care. At Pivot Counseling, we follow a comprehensive, five-phase model to ensure that each patient receives personalized, ethical, and effective support.
1. Initial Consultation & Screening
Your journey begins with a thorough evaluation of your mental and physical health history. This includes:
Assessment of prior treatments
Review of psychiatric and medical diagnoses
Screening for contraindications (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, history of psychosis, substance abuse)
Discussion of personal goals and readiness for therapy
Only adults age 18 or older with a clear clinical need and medical clearance are approved for treatment.
2. Preparation Sessions
Before your first ketamine session, you’ll meet with your therapist to set clear intentions and establish trust. These sessions help you:
Learn what to expect from the medicine
Explore emotional goals
Practice grounding techniques to use during sessions
Understand the integration process
This phase helps you feel emotionally and mentally prepared to enter the altered state facilitated by ketamine.
3. Dosing Sessions (Induction Phase)
Most patients begin with an induction protocol of 6–9 sessions over 2–3 weeks. Each session includes:
Baseline vitals and mental check-in
Administration of ketamine via the selected route (IV, IM, sublingual, or intranasal)
A 40–60 minute session in a controlled environment, with clinical staff present
Immediate post-session support and quiet reflection time
Patients may wear eye masks or headphones with music to enhance internal processing during the dissociative phase.
4. Integration Therapy
Within 24–72 hours of each dosing session, patients meet with a licensed therapist to process their experiences. This is a critical phase of treatment where emotional insights gained under ketamine are translated into meaningful psychological growth.
Topics often explored include:
Revisiting traumatic memories with less emotional charge
Observing subconscious patterns from a new perspective
Clarifying personal values and goals
Reinforcing new, healthier narratives
5. Maintenance and Follow-Up
After the initial series, patients typically move into a maintenance phase, which may include:
Monthly or bi-monthly booster sessions
Ongoing talk therapy
Lifestyle adjustments (nutrition, sleep, movement, mindfulness)
Collaboration with primary care or psychiatric providers
The goal is to maintain progress and prevent relapse, always with flexibility based on individual response.
Supporting Source:
Wilkinson ST, Sanacora G. “Considerations on the Off-Label Use of Ketamine as a Treatment for Mood Disorders.” JAMA (2017)
Medication Interactions
Before beginning ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), it is essential to disclose all medications and supplementsyou are currently taking. Ketamine’s unique mechanism of action can interact with certain pharmaceuticals, which may either diminish its therapeutic effects or increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Medications That May Blunt Ketamine’s Effectiveness
Some psychiatric medications, especially those that act on the central nervous system, may reduce the intensity or duration of ketamine’s therapeutic benefits:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam, clonazepam): These are often prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders but may dampen ketamine’s dissociative effects, making sessions less impactful.
Lamotrigine (Lamictal): A mood stabilizer that may interfere with the glutamatergic mechanisms ketamine relies on.
High-dose SSRIs/SNRIs: While not necessarily contraindicated, these may compete with ketamine’s mechanisms in some patients and require careful monitoring.
Study Reference:
Blier P, et al. “Potential interactions between ketamine and psychotropic medications.” CNS Drugs(2018)
Medications That Require Caution
Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin): Can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may be exacerbated by ketamine’s cardiovascular effects.
MAOIs (Monoamine oxidase inhibitors): Rarely used today, but pose significant risks when combined with substances that affect catecholamine systems.
Opioids or other sedatives: May increase sedation or depress respiration when combined with ketamine.
Supplements and Over-the-Counter Interactions
Even non-prescription substances may have an effect on your treatment. These include:
St. John’s Wort: May influence neurotransmitter activity in ways that are unpredictable alongside ketamine.
Melatonin, kava, or valerian root: Can enhance sedative effects.
Caffeine or alcohol: Should be avoided in the 24–48 hours before and after treatment to prevent cardiovascular or neurological complications.
Importance of a Collaborative Care Approach
At Pivot Counseling, we communicate closely with your existing medical or psychiatric team to ensure safety. You may be asked to pause or taper certain medications under medical supervision if they are likely to interfere with treatment.
Always consult with a licensed provider before stopping or adjusting any medications.
Source:
Sanacora G, Frye MA, McDonald W, et al. “Consensus Statement on the Use of Ketamine in the Treatment of Mood Disorders.” JAMA Psychiatry (2017)
Building a Holistic Treatment Plan
Ketamine therapy is not a standalone solution—it is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive, personalized mental health strategy that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.
The Role of Holistic, Multi-Modal Care
At Pivot Counseling, we recognize that emotional health is influenced by a variety of factors, including:
Cognitive and emotional patterns
Physical health and sleep hygiene
Nutrition, gut-brain connection, and inflammation
Lifestyle habits, including screen time, movement, and substance use
Relationships, community, and spiritual beliefs
That’s why we work with patients to develop a whole-person plan that includes not just ketamine and talk therapy but also:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness and breathwork practices
Somatic therapies to release trauma stored in the body
Nutritional and lifestyle coaching (through referrals as needed)
Psychoeducation on mental health and medication literacy
Supporting Evidence:
Gorman JM. “Integrating psychotherapy into the care of patients receiving ketamine.” Depression and Anxiety (2020)
Treatment Phases Within a Holistic Framework
Acute Relief Phase
Ketamine sessions focus on symptom reduction (usually 6–9 sessions over 2–3 weeks)
Stabilization Phase
Integration therapy helps patients emotionally process and apply insights
Additional supports (e.g., sleep routines, dietary shifts) are introduced
Growth & Maintenance Phase
Booster ketamine sessions as needed
Deepening therapy and new skill-building
Continued collaboration with healthcare team
Patient Empowerment Is Central
A holistic plan helps empower individuals to:
Identify their core values and long-term goals
Practice agency and self-regulation
Address root causes, not just chemical imbalances
Rebuild meaning, relationships, and emotional resilience
This approach allows for sustained change, especially in adults who have struggled for years with cycling symptoms, disconnected care, or one-size-fits-all treatment.
What to Expect During Sessions
Understanding what a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy session feels like is an important part of reducing fear and uncertainty—especially for those new to the experience. While every individual responds to ketamine somewhat differently, the general arc of the session follows a predictable pattern when administered in a clinical setting.
Session Structure
At Pivot Counseling, every session is conducted in a quiet, private room under the supervision of licensed clinicians. Before the session begins, you’ll review your current emotional state and set a therapeutic intention, often guided by a psychotherapist.
Depending on your treatment plan, ketamine may be administered through one of the following methods:
Intravenous (IV) – Delivered via a controlled drip, usually over 40 minutes
Intramuscular (IM) – A quick injection with effects felt within minutes
Sublingual – Dissolved lozenge under the tongue, slower onset
Intranasal (Spravato®) – Self-administered in-office under medical supervision
You’ll be encouraged to relax in a reclined position, possibly using an eye mask or calming music playlist to promote inward focus.
Sensory and Emotional Experience
As ketamine takes effect, patients often enter a dissociative or altered state. This does not mean losing consciousness, but rather experiencing:
A shift in perspective or detachment from everyday thoughts
Vivid internal imagery or memories
A sense of floating, spaciousness, or time distortion
Emotional release or breakthroughs (e.g., sudden clarity or relief)
Some people describe the sensation as “watching their thoughts from a distance”, which can allow for unique insight without overwhelming emotional reactivity.
Sessions typically last between 40–60 minutes, followed by a 15–30 minute recovery period during which you may feel slightly groggy or emotionally tender. You will not be allowed to drive home afterward and must arrange safe transportation.
Sources:
Dore J et al. “Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: A Systematic Narrative Review.” Journal of Psychedelic Studies (2019)
Kolp E et al. “Ketamine Enhanced Psychotherapy: Preliminary Clinical Observations on Its Effectiveness in Treating Depression.” The Humanistic Psychologist (2006)
The Role of Integrated Psychotherapy
Ketamine alone can offer temporary relief, but when combined with psychotherapy, it becomes a transformative healing experience. This combined approach is known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP)—and it is the foundation of treatment at Pivot Counseling.
Why Integration Matters
Ketamine temporarily enhances neuroplasticity, making the brain more receptive to new ideas and emotional shifts. This creates a powerful therapeutic window where patients may be:
More open to confronting difficult emotions or memories
Less reactive to internal distress
Able to view themselves and their life circumstances from a broader perspective
Emotionally resilient enough to reframe beliefs or adopt new coping strategies
However, without integration, these insights may remain fleeting or disorganized. Psychotherapy provides the structure to interpret, anchor, and apply these revelations in daily life.
What Integration Sessions Involve
Integration therapy is typically conducted within 24–72 hours after each ketamine dosing session. These sessions include:
Guided reflection on the ketamine experience
Exploration of imagery, emotions, or insights that emerged
Identifying themes or breakthroughs related to trauma, identity, or personal values
Developing action steps to translate these into behavior change or self-care routines
Supporting Evidence:
Mathai DS, Meyer MJ, Storch EA. “Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy: A systematic review of the literature.” Frontiers in Psychiatry (2023)
Long-Term Therapeutic Growth
Over time, KAP helps patients build:
Emotional agility – the ability to navigate complex feelings without becoming overwhelmed
Cognitive flexibility – openness to new thoughts and interpretations
Self-compassion – replacing internal criticism with understanding
Motivation – re-engaging with relationships, career goals, or personal passions
Many adults who have felt “stuck” in therapy for years report a significant shift once ketamine is introduced into the process—especially when the insights are immediately explored and reinforced through talk therapy.
Choosing a Qualified Provider
Not all ketamine therapy providers offer the same quality of care. Because ketamine is a powerful psychoactive medication, it must be administered responsibly within a structured, medically supervised framework. Choosing the right provider is one of the most important decisions in your mental health journey.
What to Look for in a Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Provider
Licensed Medical Oversight
The clinic should operate under the supervision of a licensed medical professional—typically a physician or psychiatrist—who is authorized to prescribe and manage ketamine treatment.
Adult-Only Services (18+)
Legally and ethically, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy should be administered only to adults. A qualified provider will not offer ketamine treatment to minors under any circumstances.
Integrated Psychotherapy Approach
Ketamine alone is not a cure. Look for a provider who offers integration sessions with licensed therapists to help process and apply insights from each treatment. Integration is key to long-term healing.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Effective care requires an individualized approach. The provider should assess your mental health history, medication use, lifestyle factors, and personal goals before developing a customized plan.
Collaborative Care Coordination
A reputable provider will be open to working with your existing healthcare team, including your primary care provider, psychiatrist, or current therapist, to ensure continuity of care.
Transparent Informed Consent Process
The provider should clearly explain the risks, benefits, alternatives, and expectations of ketamine treatment before you begin. Informed consent is not just a form—it’s a conversation.
Safe, Supportive Clinical Setting
Sessions should take place in a quiet, private, medically monitored environment. Staff should be present throughout the experience to ensure your comfort and safety.
Evidence-Based Protocols
Ask whether the provider uses research-backed practices and regularly updates their treatment protocols based on the latest findings in psychiatric care.
Initial Consultations Encouraged
Clinics that prioritize your well-being will offer consultations to assess whether ketamine is appropriate for you—without pressuring you into a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is ketamine therapy legal and safe for adults?
Yes. Ketamine is approved by the FDA for use as an anesthetic and can be legally prescribed off-label for mental health conditions in adults. When administered in a clinical setting under professional supervision, ketamine is considered safe and effective for most individuals.
2. How quickly does ketamine work for depression or anxiety?
Many patients experience noticeable relief from symptoms within hours to a few days after the first session. This makes ketamine one of the fastest-acting treatments available for depression and suicidal ideation.
3. Will I need to stop taking my current medications?
Not necessarily, but it depends on what you’re taking. Some medications, such as benzodiazepines or lamotrigine, may reduce ketamine’s effectiveness. Your provider will assess your medication list and may recommend temporary adjustments if needed.
4. What does a ketamine session feel like?
Most patients experience a dissociative state that can feel like a dreamlike or meditative experience. Some people describe it as gaining a new perspective on their thoughts or emotions. Sessions are conducted in a calming, private space with trained staff nearby to support you.
5. How long do the benefits of ketamine last?
While individual responses vary, many people report benefits lasting several days to weeks after the initial series. Maintenance sessions, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help extend these effects.
6. How many sessions will I need?
The typical induction phase includes six to nine sessions over two to three weeks, followed by a maintenance plan tailored to your progress and goals. Integration therapy continues alongside and after dosing sessions.
7. Can I drive after a session?
No. Due to the temporary dissociative and cognitive effects of ketamine, you will need someone to drive you home. You should also avoid operating heavy machinery or making major decisions until the next day.
8. Is ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
Currently, most insurance plans do not cover off-label ketamine treatment for mental health conditions. However, some clinics provide superbills for partial reimbursement, and certain related services (like therapy) may be covered.
9. Can I do this alongside my regular therapy or psychiatry sessions?
Yes. In fact, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is most effective when used in collaboration with your existing mental health team. Your provider should be open to coordinating care with your therapist or psychiatrist.
Reignite Your Potential with Pivot Counseling
If you’ve been living with depression, anxiety, or emotional burnout that just won’t lift—despite medications, talk therapy, or personal effort—you’re not alone. And more importantly, you’re not out of options.
At Pivot Counseling, we offer a compassionate, science-backed approach to healing through ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP)—specifically designed for adults 18 and over who are ready to move beyond treatment-resistant symptoms and into a life of renewed clarity, confidence, and connection.
Whether you’re feeling stuck in old patterns, weighed down by trauma, or simply ready for a deeper kind of transformation, KAP can open the door to a breakthrough.
What You Can Expect with Pivot Counseling:
Personalized treatment rooted in safety and evidence-based care
A collaborative team that works alongside your existing providers
Deep integration support to ensure real, lasting change—not just symptom management
A warm, private clinical environment where you’re treated with dignity, not diagnosis
You’ve already tried to push through. Now it’s time to heal through—with the right support, at the right time, in the right hands.
Start your journey today.
Schedule a consultation with Pivot Counseling and learn whether ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is the next step in your healing. Your future doesn’t have to look like your past.
Contact us now to take the first step toward meaningful, lasting change.
Your transformation begins here.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Pivot Counseling makes no warranties about the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information on this site. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. Licensed professionals provide services, but individual results may vary. In no event will Pivot Counseling be liable for any damages arising out of or in connection with the use of this website. By using this website, you agree to these terms. For specific concerns, please contact us directly.
