Ketamine-Assisted Therapists in Richmond, VA

Photo of Bunni Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Bunni Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Richmond, VA 23235
I believe that prioritizing mental health is essential to overall well-being and achieving a sense of balance in life. Reaching out for support can be one of the hardest steps, so I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to begin this process. I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade, with a focus on supporting adults and parents navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, and the ongoing stress of caring for others. My goal is to provide a supportive and honest space where clients can slow down, gain clarity, and build practical tools to feel more confident moving forward.
I believe that prioritizing mental health is essential to overall well-being and achieving a sense of balance in life. Reaching out for support can be one of the hardest steps, so I want to acknowledge the courage it takes to begin this process. I have been working in the mental health field for over a decade, with a focus on supporting adults and parents navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, and the ongoing stress of caring for others. My goal is to provide a supportive and honest space where clients can slow down, gain clarity, and build practical tools to feel more confident moving forward.
(804) 696-5946 View (804) 696-5946
Photo of Charlise Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor, LSATP, CCTP-II, C-DBT, ASDCS, CSTIP
Charlise Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LSATP, CCTP-II, C-DBT, ASDCS, CSTIP
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
Waitlist for new clients
Certifications: Certified Trauma Therapist - Level 2, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapist, Sex-Therapy Informed Practitioner, Certified DBT Therapist, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider
Sometimes, our “figure it out” can feel broken, and “happily ever after” may seem out of reach. Emotional pain, relationship struggles, and patterns of disconnection often develop from earlier attachment wounds and traumatic experiences that shaped how we learned to survive, protect ourselves, and relate to others. Past trauma can leave us feeling empty, lonely, ashamed, anxious, or afraid of abandonment. We may push others away to avoid being hurt, struggle with overwhelming emotions, feel trapped in cycles of guilt and self-criticism, or believe we can never meet expectations.
Certifications: Certified Trauma Therapist - Level 2, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapist, Sex-Therapy Informed Practitioner, Certified DBT Therapist, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider
Sometimes, our “figure it out” can feel broken, and “happily ever after” may seem out of reach. Emotional pain, relationship struggles, and patterns of disconnection often develop from earlier attachment wounds and traumatic experiences that shaped how we learned to survive, protect ourselves, and relate to others. Past trauma can leave us feeling empty, lonely, ashamed, anxious, or afraid of abandonment. We may push others away to avoid being hurt, struggle with overwhelming emotions, feel trapped in cycles of guilt and self-criticism, or believe we can never meet expectations.
(804) 395-6132 View (804) 395-6132
Photo of Seth Criner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Seth Criner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
Interested in a free 30–minute consultation? Are you feeling exhausted and burned out trying to find solutions? Have you seen countless different helping professionals but still can't seem to achieve your goals?
Interested in a free 30–minute consultation? Are you feeling exhausted and burned out trying to find solutions? Have you seen countless different helping professionals but still can't seem to achieve your goals?
(804) 531-6835 View (804) 531-6835
Photo of Priscilla Witwer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Priscilla Witwer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience in mental health and substance use services, and have a postgraduate Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. I work with adults and have a passion for supporting women, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, as well as those navigating post-psychedelic integration. Our therapeutic partnership begins with understanding that you are a whole person. Together, we will explore how intersections of identity, lived experience, trauma, mental health, and substance use shape your inner world and outer life across biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience in mental health and substance use services, and have a postgraduate Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy. I work with adults and have a passion for supporting women, LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, as well as those navigating post-psychedelic integration. Our therapeutic partnership begins with understanding that you are a whole person. Together, we will explore how intersections of identity, lived experience, trauma, mental health, and substance use shape your inner world and outer life across biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions.
(804) 492-7512 View (804) 492-7512
Photo of Adina Silvestri, Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Adina Silvestri
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Richmond, VA 23229
My work is soul-led and science-backed—integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS), clinical hypnosis, expressive writing, and (when appropriate) ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in collaboration with a medical prescriber.
I specialize in women’s mental health and in high-achieving men who “wear all the masks”—performing at work, holding it together at home, yet battling anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, substance use, or quiet shame. We’ll map your protector parts (the Stoic, the Performer, the Fixer), hear the needs they guard, and build strategies that work in real life.
My work is soul-led and science-backed—integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS), clinical hypnosis, expressive writing, and (when appropriate) ketamine-assisted psychotherapy in collaboration with a medical prescriber.
I specialize in women’s mental health and in high-achieving men who “wear all the masks”—performing at work, holding it together at home, yet battling anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, substance use, or quiet shame. We’ll map your protector parts (the Stoic, the Performer, the Fixer), hear the needs they guard, and build strategies that work in real life.
(804) 621-7126 View (804) 621-7126
Photo of Jessica Ogilvie, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CYT
Jessica Ogilvie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CYT
4 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
So many of us have had to disconnect from ourselves to survive in some way, often due difficult experiences that overwhelmed our capacity to cope. As a result, you may be finding that the way you relate to yourself is negatively impacting how you show up in your life and relationships. Perhaps you find yourself engaging in patterns that are harming you, despite efforts to stop—leaving you feeling stuck, alone, or even broken. I'm here to help you find new ways of relating to yourself, and equip you with tools for navigating life more effectively. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, we will work together to find healing.
So many of us have had to disconnect from ourselves to survive in some way, often due difficult experiences that overwhelmed our capacity to cope. As a result, you may be finding that the way you relate to yourself is negatively impacting how you show up in your life and relationships. Perhaps you find yourself engaging in patterns that are harming you, despite efforts to stop—leaving you feeling stuck, alone, or even broken. I'm here to help you find new ways of relating to yourself, and equip you with tools for navigating life more effectively. Whatever it is that brings you to therapy, we will work together to find healing.
(216) 208-3859 View (216) 208-3859
Photo of Dr. Angela K Waggoner - Safe Haven Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC
Safe Haven Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, CSC, NCC
8 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23235
At Safe Haven Counseling Center, our therapists are passionate about client care. We work with individuals from all backgrounds and beliefs. Our goal is to help you reach your goal. You can work with one of our Life Coaches, Addictions Counselors, and Therapists. We also partner with Psychiatrists to help you reach your goals. We are happy to cater your care to your needs.
At Safe Haven Counseling Center, our therapists are passionate about client care. We work with individuals from all backgrounds and beliefs. Our goal is to help you reach your goal. You can work with one of our Life Coaches, Addictions Counselors, and Therapists. We also partner with Psychiatrists to help you reach your goals. We are happy to cater your care to your needs.
(281) 712-2967 View (281) 712-2967
Photo of Mary Catherine (M C) Jessee, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Mary Catherine (M C) Jessee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Online Only
I have training in LGBTQ+ Affirmative Care, Ketamine-Assisted and Psychedelic-Integrative Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Somatic Integrative Internal Family Systems, and CBT.
Are you feeling dragged down by life? The Zen proverb "Let go, or be dragged" reminds us that in order to be free of suffering, we must learn to let go. I am inspired by secular Buddhism and believe that suffering is an innate human experience, not created from life's problems, but from our clinging to "the way things should be" and resisting impermanence and change. I help individuals develop acceptance through mindfulness techniques and other holistic practices. I will help you discover how to let go of unnecessary thoughts and beliefs and how to find equanimity within, even amongst the most chaotic storms.
I have training in LGBTQ+ Affirmative Care, Ketamine-Assisted and Psychedelic-Integrative Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Breathwork, Somatic Integrative Internal Family Systems, and CBT.
Are you feeling dragged down by life? The Zen proverb "Let go, or be dragged" reminds us that in order to be free of suffering, we must learn to let go. I am inspired by secular Buddhism and believe that suffering is an innate human experience, not created from life's problems, but from our clinging to "the way things should be" and resisting impermanence and change. I help individuals develop acceptance through mindfulness techniques and other holistic practices. I will help you discover how to let go of unnecessary thoughts and beliefs and how to find equanimity within, even amongst the most chaotic storms.
(804) 474-6437 View (804) 474-6437
Photo of Dr. Aynen M Vallis, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Aynen M Vallis
Psychologist, PsyD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I help high-functioning adults (ages 40–64) who are tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or angry—and ready to change. Many of my clients have tried therapy before and felt misunderstood or disappointed. They’re busy professionals (military or civilian), often BIPOC, who know what’s not working and are ready to do something about it. They have insight, drive, and questions—and they want a therapist who can keep up. My approach is active and direct: I assign tailored homework, recommend strategies for brain health, and collaborate with psychiatrists when needed. It’s time to break toxic patterns and thrive. Let’s get started now!
I help high-functioning adults (ages 40–64) who are tired of feeling anxious, stressed, or angry—and ready to change. Many of my clients have tried therapy before and felt misunderstood or disappointed. They’re busy professionals (military or civilian), often BIPOC, who know what’s not working and are ready to do something about it. They have insight, drive, and questions—and they want a therapist who can keep up. My approach is active and direct: I assign tailored homework, recommend strategies for brain health, and collaborate with psychiatrists when needed. It’s time to break toxic patterns and thrive. Let’s get started now!
(571) 506-0298 View (571) 506-0298
Photo of Marquitta Johnson, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LCSW-R
Marquitta Johnson
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LCSW-R
Online Only
Hello, I’m Marquitta. I look forward to starting this journey toward healing and growth with you. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward the life you want. Many clients come feeling stressed, anxious, or facing depression or major life transitions. You may want a space to explore your emotions, understand patterns, and find practical tools to feel more balanced, confident, and in control.
Hello, I’m Marquitta. I look forward to starting this journey toward healing and growth with you. Together, we’ll create a safe, supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to move toward the life you want. Many clients come feeling stressed, anxious, or facing depression or major life transitions. You may want a space to explore your emotions, understand patterns, and find practical tools to feel more balanced, confident, and in control.
(703) 750-8735 View (703) 750-8735
Photo of Lisa Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Lisa Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Serves Area
Currently offering ketamine treatment through Journey Clinical. I'm trained in multiple therapeutic platforms for alternative medicines. Each person is unique in their own way. We come together to share and at times there are narratives that create a loss of authenticity. Each of use are accustomed to putting on our armor, attempting to present our self and carrying this self into our relationships. If we are not practicing a coordination of somatic, mindful acceptance, there is an innate loud, blaming inner voice that confuses and minimizes wholeness. Each person is an independent vessel with ability to heal.
Currently offering ketamine treatment through Journey Clinical. I'm trained in multiple therapeutic platforms for alternative medicines. Each person is unique in their own way. We come together to share and at times there are narratives that create a loss of authenticity. Each of use are accustomed to putting on our armor, attempting to present our self and carrying this self into our relationships. If we are not practicing a coordination of somatic, mindful acceptance, there is an innate loud, blaming inner voice that confuses and minimizes wholeness. Each person is an independent vessel with ability to heal.
(360) 345-3533 View (360) 345-3533
Photo of Monica Dominguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Monica Dominguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
Currently accepting new clients and couples/partnerships via telehealth or in person, as well as new clients for Ketamine-Assisted Therapy!
Currently accepting new Telehealth clients for MD, VA and CO! With almost a decade of experience in the counseling field, Monica’s therapeutic approach is deeply collaborative, striving to create and maintain a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to feel supported. They have extensive experience working with complex issues and populations, such as LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, sex workers, survivors of abuse and intimate partner violence, immigrants, and those navigating Neurodiversity, Disability, non-monogamy and gender identity. They also have experience as a psychedelic therapist in research and non-research settings.
Currently accepting new clients and couples/partnerships via telehealth or in person, as well as new clients for Ketamine-Assisted Therapy!
Currently accepting new Telehealth clients for MD, VA and CO! With almost a decade of experience in the counseling field, Monica’s therapeutic approach is deeply collaborative, striving to create and maintain a safe and nonjudgmental space for clients to feel supported. They have extensive experience working with complex issues and populations, such as LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals, sex workers, survivors of abuse and intimate partner violence, immigrants, and those navigating Neurodiversity, Disability, non-monogamy and gender identity. They also have experience as a psychedelic therapist in research and non-research settings.
(443) 552-5908 View (443) 552-5908
Photo of Britney N Chacey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Britney N Chacey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I also offer ketamine-assisted therapy and discernment counseling for couples (when one person is "leaning out" of the relationship).
Do you feel disconnected or like you have lost your sense of self? Are you seeking and searching without a clear direction or path? Do you feel stuck in unhealthy life patterns? I am here to be a support and a guide on your journey. I want to help you to trust your own intuition, to know all the parts of yourself, and to believe in yourself while developing new life skills and gaining insight into your issues. I believe you already have everything you need to heal; however, it is not always easy to access it. I work with people who are drawn to something deeper and want to get curious about themselves and where they are stuck.
I also offer ketamine-assisted therapy and discernment counseling for couples (when one person is "leaning out" of the relationship).
Do you feel disconnected or like you have lost your sense of self? Are you seeking and searching without a clear direction or path? Do you feel stuck in unhealthy life patterns? I am here to be a support and a guide on your journey. I want to help you to trust your own intuition, to know all the parts of yourself, and to believe in yourself while developing new life skills and gaining insight into your issues. I believe you already have everything you need to heal; however, it is not always easy to access it. I work with people who are drawn to something deeper and want to get curious about themselves and where they are stuck.
(804) 259-0215 View (804) 259-0215
Photo of Sean Slevin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Sean Slevin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), a legal form of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy that can be very helpful for doing deeper work and working through particularly stuck areas of pain, wounding, etc
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), a legal form of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy that can be very helpful for doing deeper work and working through particularly stuck areas of pain, wounding, etc
~ Counseling tailored to your Personality, from a Christian Perspective, & with a Neurobiological understanding of Lasting Change ~ I understand firsthand the courage required to ask for help. You are taking an important step in pursuing counseling today. ~ I use my understanding of personality types to tailor counseling to your specific needs. We are all unique, and my desire is to help each person become more fully whomever they are meant to be. I use my knowledge of the various strengths and weaknesses of each personality type to help you build on your strengths, and to have compassion for your weaknesses.
Photo of Kimberly Bass-Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC , LCCA, LSOTP
Kimberly Bass-Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC , LCCA, LSOTP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am working on a magical reality-based project with the business mogul & my Spiritual husband Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. I am also a musical artist and I provide psychotherapy treatment in Virginia & Texas. Clientele includes Secretary of Defense, Department of Defense, Veterans, celebrities & civilian families. I help people manifest life goals using multi-modality therapy, energy/love, mindfulness, prayer/meditation, super foods, movement, music, nature, art, and/or positive affirmations for clarity. Additionally, I educate clients about maximizing their somatic and automatic nervous system by reprogramming negative thoughts.
I am working on a magical reality-based project with the business mogul & my Spiritual husband Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson. I am also a musical artist and I provide psychotherapy treatment in Virginia & Texas. Clientele includes Secretary of Defense, Department of Defense, Veterans, celebrities & civilian families. I help people manifest life goals using multi-modality therapy, energy/love, mindfulness, prayer/meditation, super foods, movement, music, nature, art, and/or positive affirmations for clarity. Additionally, I educate clients about maximizing their somatic and automatic nervous system by reprogramming negative thoughts.
(210) 783-0130 View (210) 783-0130

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Londry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Melissa Londry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Offices in Abingdon, Christiansburg, and Galax. Accepting new clients. Everyone has their own definition of healthy, however, healthy is not a destination. Healthy is a practice, much like mindfulness is a practice. Small, daily healthy tasks or habits can lead to powerful changes in someone's life. Small, but powerful, changes look different for everyone. At Body and Mindfully Healthy, we offer a variety of treatment options for depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and more. This is a group practice, which means that you will be offered an appointment with an available clinician as soon as possible.
Offices in Abingdon, Christiansburg, and Galax. Accepting new clients. Everyone has their own definition of healthy, however, healthy is not a destination. Healthy is a practice, much like mindfulness is a practice. Small, daily healthy tasks or habits can lead to powerful changes in someone's life. Small, but powerful, changes look different for everyone. At Body and Mindfully Healthy, we offer a variety of treatment options for depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and more. This is a group practice, which means that you will be offered an appointment with an available clinician as soon as possible.
(276) 208-8569 View (276) 208-8569
Photo of Deborah Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Deborah Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various roles. I have a deep passion for working with people experiencing the effects of trauma. People are often nervous about beginning therapy; either they don't know what to expect or they've had some bad experiences in the past. We will collaborate to find the best strategies for you. We will talk about some things directly; we will address other things indirectly; each of these approaches work in different ways to assist you in processing and letting go of the pain and gaining new perspectives.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field in various roles. I have a deep passion for working with people experiencing the effects of trauma. People are often nervous about beginning therapy; either they don't know what to expect or they've had some bad experiences in the past. We will collaborate to find the best strategies for you. We will talk about some things directly; we will address other things indirectly; each of these approaches work in different ways to assist you in processing and letting go of the pain and gaining new perspectives.
(346) 680-5067 View (346) 680-5067

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly Vaughan Willett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BA, EMDRIA, KAP
Kimberly Vaughan Willett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BA, EMDRIA, KAP
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Just getting through the day is not normal, it could be anxiety, depression or trauma. You don't have to figure this out alone, and you don't have to wait. You can be heard, get the help you need, and move forward. My passion is working with people who want change, and my goals are your goals. I’ve assisted clients with PTSD, mood, anxiety, personality, trauma, & autism spectrum challenges. I have a variety of therapeutic methods to help you.
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Just getting through the day is not normal, it could be anxiety, depression or trauma. You don't have to figure this out alone, and you don't have to wait. You can be heard, get the help you need, and move forward. My passion is working with people who want change, and my goals are your goals. I’ve assisted clients with PTSD, mood, anxiety, personality, trauma, & autism spectrum challenges. I have a variety of therapeutic methods to help you.
(757) 933-1636 View (757) 933-1636
Photo of Lauren Fisher, Psychologist, PsyD
Lauren Fisher
Psychologist, PsyD
5 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy offers a holistic alternative that integrates mind, body, and spirit.
My current focus is providing short-term ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), mixed with IFS, mindfulness, EMDR, and somatic techniques for those experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms and PTSD. I can provide KAP therapy individually or as an adjunct to your current therapy to enhance your overall therapeutic experience.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy offers a holistic alternative that integrates mind, body, and spirit.
My current focus is providing short-term ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), mixed with IFS, mindfulness, EMDR, and somatic techniques for those experiencing anxiety, depression, symptoms and PTSD. I can provide KAP therapy individually or as an adjunct to your current therapy to enhance your overall therapeutic experience.
(571) 946-6744 x502 View (571) 946-6744 x502
Photo of Gillian Clissold, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Gillian Clissold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Manassas, VA 20110
While I am happy to work with individuals without complex needs, clients who have multiple diagnoses and have noticed only limited improvement from past treatment seem to find me helpful. I fit particularly well with clients who have experienced trauma, dissociation, and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. Clients who wish to get to the root of their difficulties and heal their deep seated wounds seem to find my approach helpful. Members of the LGBTQ community are welcome. I speak fluent Spanish and enjoy working with the immigrant community. I also welcome people adjusting to life after incarceration.
While I am happy to work with individuals without complex needs, clients who have multiple diagnoses and have noticed only limited improvement from past treatment seem to find me helpful. I fit particularly well with clients who have experienced trauma, dissociation, and treatment-resistant anxiety and depression. Clients who wish to get to the root of their difficulties and heal their deep seated wounds seem to find my approach helpful. Members of the LGBTQ community are welcome. I speak fluent Spanish and enjoy working with the immigrant community. I also welcome people adjusting to life after incarceration.
(571) 496-8617 View (571) 496-8617

See more therapy options for Richmond

Ketamine-Assisted Therapists
What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is a treatment method that involves using ketamine’s trance-inducing and pain-relieving properties to help individuals work through various mental and emotional challenges.

Why is Ketamine used for depression?
Ketamine is employed to treat depression, particularly when other treatments have failed, due to its unique, rapid-acting relief of depressive symptoms and its ability to enhance neural plasticity. Unlike conventional antidepressants, which may take weeks to be effective, ketamine can alleviate symptoms within hours, making it especially valuable for severe or suicidal depression. It acts by blocking NMDA receptors, subsequently promoting the release of neurotrophic factors like BDNF, which aid in the formation of new synaptic connections, fostering neural resilience and reducing depressive symptoms. The psychotropic and dissociative effects of ketamine also provide a therapeutic window for patients to explore and reframe distressing thoughts and emotions under guided supervision, potentially resolving underlying psychological contributors to depression. While its use can be transformative, it necessitates cautious administration in controlled settings due to potential side effects and abuse risks.

How is Ketamine used in Psychotherapy
Ketamine can be utilized in therapy to facilitate psychological healing and transformation, particularly in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. When administered in controlled, subanesthetic doses, it induces altered states of consciousness, allowing individuals to access and explore suppressed or unconscious thoughts, emotions, and memories. This dissociative state creates a therapeutic window where patients, guided by a trained psychotherapist, can work through traumatic experiences, reframe negative thought patterns, and address the emotional roots of their mental health challenges. The synergistic combination of ketamine’s psychotropic effects and psychotherapeutic intervention aims to promote lasting change, enhance self-awareness, and improve overall mental well-being, providing a valuable option for those with treatment-resistant mental health conditions.

What happens in Ketamine therapy?
In ketamine psychotherapy, patients undergo a series of sessions where they receive controlled doses of ketamine, typically via injection or infusion, under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider. Ketamine induces a trance-like or altered state of consciousness, which enables patients to access and explore deep-seated thoughts, emotions, and memories that are typically unconscious or inaccessible. Throughout this altered state, a trained psychotherapist guides the patient to help them process their experiences, offering support and intervention to help the individual address and reframe traumatic memories or negative thought patterns. This combination of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches aims to create lasting positive changes in mental health and well-being by resolving underlying psychological issues and enhancing the individual's coping mechanisms and resilience. The process can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with treatment-resistant mental health conditions like severe depression, anxiety, and PTSD.