
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative treatment modality that combines the therapeutic potential of ketamine with the structure and support of psychotherapy. Empower Women Counseling, in partnership with Journey Care and a local ketamine prescriber, offers KAP to individuals seeking relief from persistent mental health challenges such as:
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Treatment-resistant depression
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Anxiety disorders
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD
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Chronic stress and burnout
Ketamine has been used safely in medical settings for decades. At low, controlled doses, it induces a temporary altered state of consciousness, which can help facilitate psychological insight, loosen psychological defenses, facilitate emotional release, and promote cognitive flexibility. When paired with skilled therapeutic support, KAP can create lasting shifts in mood and behavior.
“Psychedelics are to the study of the mind, what the microscope is to biology and the telescope is to astronomy.” - David E. Nichols -
Our Approach
Our Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy program is structured to provide a safe, supportive, and individualized experience. The process typically includes the following phases:
1. Comprehensive Intake & Medical Screening
Before beginning treatment, each client undergoes a thorough psychological and medical evaluation to determine suitability for KAP. We collaborate closely with trusted medical providers to ensure all safety protocols are met.
2. Preparation Sessions
You’ll begin with one or more preparatory therapy sessions to establish goals, build rapport with your therapist, and learn what to expect during the ketamine experience. These sessions lay the foundation for meaningful, therapeutic exploration.
3. Ketamine Sessions (Sublingual Administration)
Ketamine is administered sublingually (as a dissolvable lozenge placed under the tongue) in a quiet, private setting. Sessions are conducted in-office and are facilitated or supported by your therapist throughout. This ensures emotional safety, attuned guidance, and appropriate clinical monitoring.
4. Integration Therapy
Following each ketamine session, you’ll participate in integration therapy to process your experience, explore emerging insights, and translate them into lasting psychological growth. Integration is a critical component of KAP and central to the overall effectiveness of the treatment.
Why Combine Ketamine and Psychotherapy?
Ketamine temporarily reduces activity in areas of the brain associated with rigid thinking and chronic distress, while promoting neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections. When used in conjunction with psychotherapy, this creates a window of opportunity to explore and reframe long-standing emotional patterns, often leading to breakthroughs that may not occur with talk therapy alone.
Is KAP Right for You?
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy may be appropriate for individuals who have not responded fully to traditional treatment approaches or who are seeking a deeper level of emotional insight. Our team works closely with each client to determine fit and develop a treatment plan that aligns with their clinical needs and therapeutic goals.
Cost of KAP:
Some of your ketamine journey, specifically the preparation and integration sessions may be eligible to receive reimbursement through your insurance plan. For more questions about the cost of KAP please schedule a consultation with Ashley so we can discuss this further.