Ketamine is a well-researched synthetic pharmaceutical compound, classified as a dissociative anesthetic. In the last two decades, ketamine has been increasingly applied in clinical settings at subanesthetic doses as an off-label treatment for various chronic treatment-resistant mental health conditions, such as depression, alcoholism, substance dependencies, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other psychiatric diagnoses. For the treatment of psychological symptoms, ketamine affords a reprieve from habitual patterns of thought that underlie mood and behavior, thereby creating an opportunity for learning new and healthier patterns of thought. Ketamine has the potential to create a non-ordinary state of consciousness, facilitating a profound transpersonal or mystical peak experience (also known as the experience of "awe.") These sorts of peak experiences have been shown to expand one’s sense of self and understanding of existence and may enable you to access your own healing wisdom.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) and ketamine treatment both utilize ketamine as a tool to address mental health issues, but they differ significantly in their approach and application. Ketamine treatment typically involves the use of the medicine on its own, often in a clinical or medical setting. In contrast, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy integrates the use of ketamine with psychotherapy sessions, where a trained therapist guides the client through their emotional or psychological experience while under the influence of the medicine state. Essentially, KAP combines the physiological effects of ketamine with the emotional and psychological benefits of psychotherapy, fostering a more holistic healing experience.
Our therapeutic framework emphasizes introspection, emotional processing, and personal insight, helping clients confront and work through underlying issues in a guided, supportive environment. We typically utilize a blend of psychodynamic, somatic, and parts-work modalities to facilitate KAP and integration sessions. Alchemy offers a brief therapeutic model, ideal for clients who are ready for deep work and potent change within a shorter period of time.
Our model blends the stability of a medical setting with a bespoke psychotherapeutic experience. One of our skilled LPC/RN providers will be present to monitor your vital signs and ensure your safety throughout your KAP journey. We utilize a phased approach to assess your specific needs and work together to create sustainable change. We are with you the entire session to transcribe any insights you have and to provide support, reassurance, and guidance, helping you navigate your journey. Our model emphasizes deep reflection between sessions and we will support you with additional exercises, aftercare recommendations, and materials to facilitate processing.
At this time, Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is available for adults age 18+ at our Fort Collins location
Please direct inquiries to our confidential email: admin@alchemyccw.com