Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAT) is an emerging approach that combines the medical effects of ketamine with the support of psychotherapy. Rather than using ketamine on its own, KAT emphasizes integration and therapeutic guidance, helping people make meaningful and lasting changes in their lives.
Why Combine Ketamine and Therapy?
Ketamine may temporarily enhance neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to form new connections — creating a unique window for therapeutic work. Psychotherapy during and after ketamine sessions helps individuals process insights, shift entrenched patterns, and integrate changes into their daily lives.
What Does the Research Say?
Real-world clinical outcomes
A study published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs (2019) reviewed data from more than 200 patients across three clinical practices. Patients receiving KAT reported significant improvements in depression and anxiety, with stronger results when therapy and integration support were part of the process.
Systematic review of the evidence
A narrative review in the Journal of Pain Research (2022) concluded that KAT shows encouraging results across depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use conditions. The review highlighted that outcomes were often more durable when therapy accompanied ketamine compared to ketamine alone.
Latest comprehensive review
A systematic review in BJPsych Open (2023) found consistent evidence that combining psychotherapy with ketamine improves both effectiveness and sustainability of results. While study designs varied, integration therapy appeared to play a key role in lasting benefits.
How KAT Is Delivered
Ketamine can be administered through intramuscular injection, intravenous infusion, or sublingual lozenges/tablets. Sessions take place in a safe, supervised environment. A typical appointment lasts two to three hours, with the ketamine experience itself lasting 45 to 90 minutes.
There are two therapeutic styles within KAT:
- Psychedelic approach (low dose): A slightly higher therapeutic dose of ketamine (still well below anesthetic levels) is used to create a non-ordinary state of consciousness. This may involve dissociation, shifts in perspective, or visionary imagery. The therapy is less verbal during the medicine session, with the main work happening afterward in integration.
- Psycholytic approach (lower dose): The lowest therapeutic doses of ketamine are used. Clients typically remain verbal and engaged, allowing therapy to unfold in real time while under the medicine. This approach often helps access emotions and memories with greater openness and flexibility.
Both approaches are safe when delivered in the right setting. The choice depends on therapeutic goals, individual needs, and professional guidance.
Finding Ketamine Clinics in Alberta
- Calgary Options: Specialized clinics in Calgary provide comprehensive assessments and treatment options. Clients are supported with careful screening and individualized care planning.
- Edmonton Centers: Established clinics in Edmonton offer professional supervision, thorough screening, and therapeutic integration for those exploring KAT as part of their mental health care.
Is KAT Right For You?
KAT may be considered when navigating symptoms related to:
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Anxiety or panic disorders
- Substance use challenges
- Chronic pain
- Obsessive-compulsive patterns
- Other complex or persistent mental health conditions
Controversies and Concerns
Ketamine therapy is sometimes seen as controversial because of its history of recreational use and questions about long-term effects. When delivered in a professional setting with proper screening and therapeutic support, these risks are carefully managed.
Important Note in Canada
In Canada, ketamine is approved as an anesthetic. Its use in mental health treatment is considered off-label. Ketamine-Assisted Therapy should only be accessed under the care of licensed medical and mental health professionals, with careful screening, monitoring, and therapeutic support.
- Learn more about ATMA CENA’s work in bringing together innovative treatments and therapeutic care at atmacena.com.
- Ready to explore ketamine therapy? Schedule a consultation to discuss whether this transformative approach aligns with your healing journey.
References
- Journal of Psychoactive Drugs (2019). Patient demographics, clinical data, and outcomes in three large practices administering ketamine with psychotherapy.
- Journal of Pain Research (2022). Ketamine-assisted therapy: a systematic narrative review.
- BJPsych Open (2023). Ketamine and psychotherapy for the treatment of psychiatric disorders: systematic review.
