Ketamine
What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used for decades in medical settings. The Alberta Government has also classified Ketamine as a psychedelic due to its ability to induce altered states of consciousness. Ketamine is known for its fast-acting effects.
In the largest study of its kind, the results published in The Journal of Affective Disorders (Volume 314, 1 October 2022, Pages 59-67) show that supervised sublingual Ketamine has an affect rate:
- 34% higher than those of SSRI antidepressants,
- 54% higher than those of psychotherapy
- 17% higher than those seen in IV Ketamine
The study also showed that after 4 sessions:
- 62% who reported suicidal ideation no longer reported any suicidal ideation
- 89% reported an improvement in symptoms
- 63% reported a 50% or greater reduction in symptoms
- 33% achieved remission (or virtually no symptoms)
How is Ketamine used in therapeutic settings?
In therapeutic settings, Ketamine has shown promise in treating various mental health concerns, including: depression, anxiety, PTSD,
c-PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, substance use disorder, suicidal ideation, adjustment issues, grief, and others. Additionally, it can aid individuals
feeling stuck, process disappointment, heal from loss, explore new meanings from memories, feel peace and calm, reduce chronic pain,
explore emotions like guilt or shame, and more.
At The Sitting Room, Ketamine is administered in safe controlled doses orally in tablet form. Ketamine induces a dissociative
state that helps clients access and process emotions and experiences. This approach leverages Ketamine’s rapid effects and ability
to promote neuroplasticity.
Who Could Benefit from Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine is an exceptional tool to support clients in becoming medically stable and psychologically and emotionally prepared to benefit from therapeutic integration. Individuals who have not responded to traditional antidepressants or therapy may also benefit from Ketamine.
Why Ketamine?
Ketamine’s rapid onset of action makes it a compelling option for individuals in acute distress or those who have not responded to other treatments. Its fast acting nature and effectiveness in relieving symptoms has increased its use in therapeutic settings. Our Medical Director screens carefully for all psychedelic medicines to see which one is right for you. Ketamine sessions should always be conducted under the guidance of trained Psychedelic Practitioners. Ketamine has a very low addiction profile and is extremely safe when used in controlled settings.
How long and often are Ketamine sessions?
Depending on the individual, each Ketamine session lasts approximately 2.5-3 hours. The typical session frequency is between 3-6 sessions, starting weekly or biweekly and then moving to monthly or longer. Some clients find they only require one session to feel relief from their concerns. Clients will know after their first session if Ketamine is the right fit for them. Ketamine is not suitable for everyone, so our Medical Director monitors your progress carefully.
What approach does The Sitting Room take with regard to Ketamine?
The Psychedelic Practitioners at The Sitting Room support clients through their Ketamine experience using a client-centred, supportive and compassionate approach. We DO NOT USE needles or injections to administer the medicine. We use Ketamine in a tablet that dissolves under the tongue. Clients are closely monitored by two highly trained practitioners throughout the entire session. With the client’s permission, we work collaboratively with our Medical Director, Dr. Krista Leicht, to ensure the highest standards of care.
If you are interested to see if Ketamine sessions are the right fit for you, please complete and submit the referral form by clicking the button below