
Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
When Emerging Treatments Like Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Are Relevant For Care
Ketamine-Assisted Therapy for Mental Health: What You Should Know
Ketamine has been used as an anesthetic since the 1970s, but in recent years, it’s gained attention for something very different: its rapid impact on mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Unlike traditional antidepressants that work on serotonin, ketamine targets the brain’s glutamate system, helping rebuild neural pathways affected by chronic stress and trauma.
At low, controlled doses, ketamine can create a temporary dissociative state, giving the brain space to reset entrenched thought patterns. Treatments are typically delivered by IV infusion, intramuscular injection, or nasal spray under medical supervision. When used this way, ketamine is considered safe and well-tolerated, though potential side effects like nausea or dissociation are closely monitored.
Research continues to support ketamine’s therapeutic potential. A study by Yale School of Medicine found ketamine rapidly restores synaptic connections in the brain, explaining its fast-acting antidepressant effects, sometimes noticeable within hours.
Conditions Treated with Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
Ketamine-assisted therapy is showing promise for:
- Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
- PTSD
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Suicidal ideation
- Comprehensive assessment to determine suitability for ketamine therapy.
- Medical supervision throughout ketamine sessions to ensure safety and monitor for side effects.
- Integration therapy, where clients work with licensed therapists to process the experience and reinforce new neural pathways formed during treatment.
- Holistic care, including psychotherapy, mindfulness, and wellness services that complement ketamine-assisted therapy.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Each client undergoes a thorough evaluation to develop a tailored treatment plan addressing their unique needs.
- Individual and Group Therapy: We utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and other modalities proven effective in treating anxiety disorders.
- Medication Management: Our psychiatric team carefully monitors and adjusts medications as needed to support symptom reduction.
- Holistic Therapies: Incorporating mindfulness practices, yoga, and art therapy to promote overall well-being and stress reduction.
- State-of-the-art Facility: Amend offers a peaceful sanctuary where you can focus entirely on your recovery. Combining clinical excellence with compassionate care, creating an environment where profound healing can occur.
How Amend Treatment Utilizes Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
At Amend, we believe in integrating evidence-based and innovative approaches to mental health care. For clients who meet clinical criteria and may benefit from ketamine-assisted therapy, we offer ketamine as part of a broader residential treatment plan. Our program is physician-led and conducted in a safe, nurturing environment.
Key aspects of our approach include:
Amend Treatment’s Supportive Program for Severe Anxiety
At Amend Treatment, we recognize the complexities of severe anxiety and offer a personalized, evidence-based approach to care. Our program includes:
The Future of Ketamine in Mental Health
While ketamine is not a cure-all, its rapid effects on mood and suicidal ideation are offering hope for people who feel stuck in their mental health journeys. At Amend Treatment, we remain committed to incorporating the latest, most effective therapies to help our clients heal and thrive.
For more information about ketamine-assisted therapy at Amend Treatment or to explore if this option is right for you or a loved one, contact our team for a confidential consultation.
Admissions – (866) 726-0226
[email protected]