Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) combines the medicine with and a psychotherapist. This approach differs from IV ketamine – which is a medical model – for treating the symptoms of depression. KAP is relational and uses the expansiveness of the ketamine experience as an agent for personal growth.
Ketamine has been used safely as an anesthetic medicine for decades. This medicine is now an “off-label” treatment for various mental health conditions that have not improved with conventional treatment.
What is the intake process?
The initial information, intake and treatment planning session is with Anne Bethune, LSCSW. This is followed by a diagnostic interview with a prescribing physician. Once you and your KAP team are in agreement, the experiential sessions will be scheduled with Anne Bethune.
What is a KAP session like?
Unlike IV ketamine infusions, KAP is a relational, therapeutic experience. You will be supported throughout the entire session. Your goals and intentions for your experience will be discussed before receiving the medicine.
You will recline comfortably for the duration of your session. Eye masks are provided and background music will be played.
As you go deep into your inner world, you may be silent or you may verbalize what you are experiencing. This state has been described as “floating” and “transformational”. At the KAP dose, there is a disruption of negative thoughts and feelings. This period is expansive and you will be aware of, and engaged with, your mind flow. As you come out of this state of consciousness, with new freedom and insights, the session will go into an integration phase. Your KAP therapist will help you to integrate and provide valuable context for your experience.
The dosage of the medicine will be determined by a medical doctor with consideration of your goals for treatment. You may experience a trance-like state or a psychedelic state, depending on the dosage. Medicine is ingested orally and is compounded by a pharmacy. KAP sessions last 2 to 3 hours. Your treatment plan will be determined based your specific needs, goals and response to the medicine. Optimal results are achieved with repeat KAP sessions as well a maintenance protocol. It is recommended that you have a relationship with a therapist outside of KAP Kansas City to support your continued growth.
All patients receiving ketamine will need transportation to and from your appointment. No food or drink is permitted before sessions. Please carefully read the pre-post session guidelines. This will be discussed during your intake session and is listed below.
What conditions does KAP treat?
KAP has demonstrated rapid and sustainable change for those experiencing treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, ruminating thoughts, and existential distress.
How is KAP different from recreational use of psychedelics?
The quality of the psychedelic experience is dependent on set, setting and dosage. Learn more about how these factors can impact your psychedelic experience.
Do I have to commit to a certain number of KAP sessions?
No. You are empowered to make your own decisions regarding frequency of KAP sessions. Current research supports a protocol of repeated sessions over the course of several weeks with maintenance sessions as needed for sustained relief from symptoms. Most people report feeling better with individual or sporadic KAP sessions.
How is KAP different form IV Ketamine Infusion?
Intravenous ketamine infuses a lower dose of the medicine. It occurs in a medical setting with no therapeutic support. The KAP dosage allows access to the unconsciousness, enhanced tolerance of disturbing feelings and memories, as well as removal defensive barriers.
How long has KAP been around?
Ketamine has been used in conjunction with psychotherapy for several years. KAP is widely available in other parts of the country. There are a handful of KAP trained therapists in the Midwest. Trainings by The Ketamine Training Center are booked to capacity months in advance as this intervention yields robust results for treatment of mood disorders and trauma.
Will I remember what comes up during a KAP session?
Yes. Additionally, your KAP therapist will be with you the entire time, taking notes and making observations. As the medication wears off, the session will go into the integration, where you and your KAP therapist will explore context, insights, and shifts in perspective. The integration phase is an important part of the treatment.
What are the Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Treatment Pre and Post Session Guidelines?
Before your session:
– No alcohol 72-hours before treatment
– Any medication taken 72- hours before treatment MUST be discussed and cleared with the treatment team
– No food 4 hours before treatment
– No drink 1 hour before treatment
– No coffee, tea, or caffeinated beverage 5 hours before treatment
After your session:
– No alcohol 72-hours after treatment
– Any medication taken 72- hours before treatment MUST be discussed and cleared with the treatment team
– You will need to arrange for a ride home after your treatment as you cannot drive or operate heavy machinery 12 hours after treatment
– To maximize the benefit of the treatment it is recommended to take the rest of the day off
Where are you located?
KAP Kansas City is located in Midtown Kansas City.