Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, often called KAP, combines ketamine treatment with psychotherapy. It may be considered for adults who feel stuck in patterns of depression, anxiety, trauma, or other mental health concerns, especially when previous forms of therapy or medication haven’t provided enough relief.
People may explore KAP for concerns such as:
Depression, including treatment-resistant depression
Anxiety that continues to interfere with everyday life
PTSD and trauma-related symptoms
Persistent negative thoughts or emotional patterns
Chronic stress or emotional distress
Chronic pain that occurs alongside depression or anxiety
Certain other mental health concerns when recommended by a qualified provider
Research on KAP is still developing, but studies have found promising results for depression, anxiety, and PTSD. At the same time, researchers are still studying how much benefit comes specifically from combining psychotherapy with ketamine rather than ketamine treatment alone.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?
You may be a good candidate for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) if:
You’re living with depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma-related symptoms.
You’ve tried traditional therapy or medication but still feel stuck.
Your symptoms continue to affect your work, relationships, sleep, or daily life.
You’re open to combining psychotherapy with a different treatment approach.
You want support processing difficult emotions, memories, or long-standing patterns.
A qualified medical and mental health provider determines that ketamine can be used safely for you.
KAP isn’t right for everyone, so a careful medical and mental health screening is an important part of deciding whether this approach fits your needs.
When KAP May Be Worth Exploring
KAP may be especially worth discussing if you’ve spent months or years trying to feel better but continue to experience symptoms that affect your relationships, work, sleep, motivation, or ability to enjoy your life.
You may also be drawn to KAP because the therapy component offers you a place to explore thoughts, emotions, memories, or insights that come up during treatment.
However, certain medical or mental health conditions, including uncontrolled high blood pressure, some cardiovascular conditions, a history of psychosis, and some substance-use concerns, may make ketamine treatment unsuitable. Pregnancy, medications, and other health conditions should also be discussed with a medical provider.
A qualified KAP provider can review your medical and mental health history, talk with you about your goals, and help determine whether this approach makes sense for you.
If you’re in Santa Monica, CA, and interested in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, I invite you to schedule an appointment today. In-person sessions are available for local clients, and virtual therapy is also available whether you live nearby or another area in California.