What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine has a long history of medical use, in recent years it has shown promise for treating depression, PTSD, and anxiety among other forms of suffering. In KAT, ketamine is administered in a therapeutic setting with professional guidance, helping individuals gain insights into their mental patterns. Studies suggest that ketamine interacts with the brain's glutamate receptors, encouraging new neural connections and offering a “reset” to thought patterns that may drive anxiety.
Ketamine for Anxiety
While approaches like SSRIs and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are effective for many, ketamine offers unique benefits, particularly for those who have not found relief through other methods:
- Rapid Relief: Unlike many medications, which can take weeks to be effective, ketamine's effects are often felt within hours. For those experiencing persistent anxiety, this immediate relief can provide hope and grounding.
- Breaking Thought Loops: Ketamine can interrupt habitual negative thought cycles, opening a window to fresh perspectives and greater mental clarity.
- Enhanced Exploration: Ketamine may create a safe, open mental space, allowing individuals to explore emotions and patterns in ways that feel less reactive and more insightful.
How Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Works
At Horizon Healing, each KAT journey begins with a comprehensive intake process, followed by a preparatory session where intentions are set. During the ketamine session itself, which typically lasts 2-3 hours, a therapist provides support and gentle guidance as the client explores their inner world. Many describe the ketamine experience as dreamlike, where emotions and insights arise in a new, less reactive way.
Integration for Lasting Change
Integration is a crucial part of KAT, allowing clients to anchor the insights gained in their daily lives. Following the ketamine session, clients meet with their therapist to reflect, process emotions, and develop tools for managing anxiety in the future. These integration sessions help translate the profound inner shifts from ketamine therapy into meaningful, lasting change.
Is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Right for You?
While ketamine-assisted therapy shows promise, it is not suitable for everyone. Our team at Horizon Healing consults with each client individually, taking into account medical history, current medications, and personal goals to ensure the approach is safe and appropriate.
A Holistic Path to Healing: supporting the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
At Horizon Healing, we support the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Ketamine-assisted therapy is one part of our holistic offerings, creating a space where clients feel safe, supported, and empowered in their healing journey.
If you’re interested in exploring ketamine-assisted therapy for anxiety, we invite you to reach out.
