Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy at Pivot
At Pivot, we are committed to providing innovative and effective mental health treatments tailored to your unique needs. One such treatment is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), a powerful approach that combines the therapeutic potential of ketamine with skilled psychotherapy. Our goal is to help you unlock new pathways to healing, particularly for conditions like treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, and anxiety.
What is Ketamine and How is it Used in Psychotherapy?
Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has gained recognition for its rapid antidepressant effects in sub-anesthetic doses. In the context of psychotherapy, ketamine can induce altered states of consciousness, allowing patients to explore thoughts and emotions in a more profound and insightful way. During a KAP session, a licensed therapist guides you through this experience, helping you process and integrate the emotions and memories that surface, ultimately facilitating deep and lasting healing.
Understanding Ketamine Administration Methods
There are several ways to administer ketamine in a therapeutic setting, each with its own unique benefits:
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IV Administration: Intravenous (IV) administration involves delivering ketamine directly into the bloodstream through an IV line. This method offers precise control over dosage and provides a rapid onset of effects, making it ideal for acute situations or when a swift response is needed.
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Intramuscular Injection (IM): IM administration involves injecting ketamine directly into a muscle, typically in the arm or thigh. This method allows for a slightly slower onset than IV but offers a sustained effect. It’s often preferred for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing a therapeutic experience without the need for continuous monitoring.
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Sublingual Administration: Sublingual ketamine is taken in the form of a lozenge or dissolvable tablet placed under the tongue. This method is less invasive and allows for a slower, more gradual absorption into the bloodstream. Sublingual administration is often used for those who prefer a less intense experience or as a maintenance therapy in between more intensive sessions.
Why Choose Pivot for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?
At Pivot, we tailor each KAP session to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the right method of administration for your therapeutic journey. Our experienced team is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore and heal. Whether you are new to ketamine therapy or seeking a trusted provider, Pivot is here to guide you every step of the way.
What is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray specifically designed to treat treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks or even months to take effect, Spravato works rapidly, often within hours, making it a promising option for those who haven't found relief with other treatments. It is used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant and is prescribed under the guidance of a certified healthcare provider.
How is Spravato Administered?
Spravato is administered as a nasal spray in a controlled medical setting. Here’s what to expect during a Spravato treatment session:
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Preparation: Before the session, your healthcare provider will guide you through what to expect and answer any questions you may have. You will also be asked to arrange for transportation, as you will not be able to drive after the session.
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Administration: Spravato is self-administered under the supervision of a healthcare provider. The process involves spraying the medication into each nostril, followed by a brief waiting period to ensure proper absorption. The administration is straightforward and typically takes just a few minutes.
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Monitoring: After administration, you will be monitored for about two hours to ensure your safety and well-being. During this time, you may experience sedation, dissociation, or other side effects. Your healthcare provider will be present to assist you and monitor your response to the treatment.
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Post-Session: After the observation period, you will be able to go home, but you must avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day. You will continue to take your oral antidepressant as prescribed, with regular follow-ups to assess your progress.
How Does Spravato Differ from Ketamine?
While Spravato and Ketamine share similarities, particularly their rapid-acting antidepressant properties, there are key differences:
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Chemical Composition: Spravato is esketamine, a more potent enantiomer of ketamine. This means it is a slightly different chemical structure, specifically designed for nasal administration and depression treatment.
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FDA Approval: Spravato is the only form of ketamine approved by the FDA for treating treatment-resistant depression. Ketamine, on the other hand, is often used off-label for mental health conditions, though it is FDA-approved as an anesthetic.
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Administration: Spravato is administered as a nasal spray in a controlled setting, whereas ketamine can be administered via IV, intramuscular injection, or sublingual tablet, depending on the treatment protocol.
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Cost and Accessibility: Spravato treatments are typically more expensive than ketamine treatments due to the cost of the medication and the requirement for administration in a certified medical facility. However, Spravato is often covered by insurance when other treatments have failed.
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Treatment Protocol: Spravato is used in conjunction with an oral antidepressant and follows a structured protocol, while ketamine can be more flexible, depending on the patient's needs and the provider’s approach.
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Why Choose Spravato?
Spravato offers a new hope for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. Its rapid onset, combined with professional supervision, makes it a safe and effective option for those seeking relief from severe depressive symptoms. If you’ve tried other treatments without success, Spravato could be the breakthrough you need.