Ketamine infusion and psychotherapy

Ketamine has been developed, approved, and used as an anesthetic since the 1960s. However, during its administration and further research, it became clear that ketamine not only had an anesthetic effect, but also a rapid antidepressant effect, particularly in treatment-resistant depression. As early as 2000, a Yale University study demonstrated that even a low dose of ketamine could relieve depressive symptoms within a few hours. This represents a significant difference from conventional antidepressants, which typically require several weeks to take effect. (Berman et al., 2000)

It has thus been scientifically proven that ketamine promotes neuronal plasticity in the brain by blocking NMDA receptors. This specifically interrupts certain excitation processes in the brain. During this interruption, a state of increased changeability can be created. It is precisely this reversible effect that makes it possible, in the course of psychotherapeutic integration therapy, to profoundly reshape processes during this phase of emotional openness.

From these and other findings, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) emerged, a combination of ketamine infusion and targeted psychotherapeutic integration therapy.

Especially with depression, PTSD, Anxiety disorders and Seeks Rapid improvements can be achieved. Recent studies show that particularly lasting effects can be achieved by combining ketamine with integrative psychotherapy.

The slight decoupling of self-perception creates an emotional distance that allows access to previously inaccessible areas. A mildly hallucinatory state can thus lead to a temporary release from entrenched structures, making it easier to break negative spirals and allowing for more flexibility due to the newly formed neural connections.

Effectiveness in various disorders

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)

Randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrate the antidepressant effect of ketamine infusions, especially in patients who respond poorly or not at all to conventional antidepressants. In many cases, a significant reduction in symptoms occurs after just a few sessions. Because the effect occurs very quickly, ketamine infusions are also used in suicidal patients to gain valuable time for further therapeutic interventions.

Suicidal thoughts

Meta-analyses have shown that a single ketamine infusion can significantly reduce acute suicidal ideation within a few hours. This effect can last up to three days. This provides valuable time for initiating further therapeutic measures to stabilize patients in acute distress.

Anxiety disorders and PTSD

Patients with anxiety disorders and PTSD also often respond well to ketamine. Studies document a significant and often rapid reduction in anxiety symptoms after a ketamine infusion. The effect can last for weeks or even months. Especially in chronic PTSD, repeated administration (4-6 infusions within 2 weeks) led to a significant improvement in general health and symptom severity compared to the placebo group.

Seeks

The administration of ketamine interrupts ingrained addictive memory pathways and promotes neuroplasticity. This facilitates the relearning of learned and entrenched behavioral and habitual patterns. Dissociative effects trigger and reinforce emotional distancing from habitual addictive behavior. Cravings and relapse spirals are thus significantly reduced.

Ketamine differs from traditional withdrawal medications in that it doesn't directly inhibit addiction, but rather opens a window of opportunity in which the newly forming neuronal connections can be targeted therapeutically. Ketamine can therefore be viewed more as a therapeutic catalyst.

Ketamine infusions are particularly effective when emotional trauma plays a role in the development of addiction.

Initial studies also show a significant reduction in the urge to smoke in cases of nicotine addiction.

Ketamine infusions are therefore particularly promising for alcohol and opiate-related addiction, but also for other addictions. Craving and relapse rates can be significantly reduced if ketamine infusions are accompanied by therapeutic support.

Procedure for ketamine infusion therapy

Before starting ketamine treatment, you will have a detailed preliminary consultation with our physician to clarify your medical history. Possible exclusion criteria will be clarified, and a detailed discussion will take place regarding the procedure, effects, and side effects.

Ketamine treatment is an integral part of our Hybrid Fast procedure and is combined with numerous other therapeutic components. Our experienced team will inform you about the treatment process and the various options, and familiarize you with our therapy.

On the day of the infusion, a low dose of ketamine is administered over 40-60 minutes, while you are monitored and supported by our Las Almas therapists in a relaxed environment. After about 10-15 minutes, mild dissociative states and altered perception often occur. This is followed by a rest period of approximately 30-60 minutes.

A treatment series at Las Almas lasts two to four weeks, with three to four infusions during each two-week treatment. Our psychotherapeutic integration therapy takes place with the treating psychotherapist on the following day of treatment.

Possible mild, temporary side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or headaches are constantly monitored. The entire procedure is conducted under medical supervision.

Conclusion

For many sufferers for whom conventional therapies have failed to produce the desired effect and who often already have a long history of suffering behind them, ketamine infusion therapy combined with integrative psychotherapy offers a scientifically supported, modern, and effective treatment alternative. Based on the encouraging studies available, this opens up a new, innovative treatment method.

However, ketamine alone will never replace comprehensive psychotherapy. However, it can be used as an integral component of holistic treatment and offers hope for a better quality of life and joy in life.

LAS ALMAS

MENTAL HEALTH, HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE