What is KAP and how does it work?
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a therapeutic approach that combines ketamine with psychotherapy to support emotional healing and insight. Ketamine can help quiet the nervous system and loosen rigid patterns, while therapy helps you make meaning of the experience and integrate it into your life.
Who might benefit from KAP?
KAP may be helpful for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma-related symptoms, grief, or life transitions, particularly when other treatments have felt limited. It is a collaborative, intentional process, not a one-size-fits-all solution.
Is KAP safe?
Ketamine has a long history of medical use and can be safe when carefully prescribed, screened, and monitored. A thorough intake helps determine whether KAP is an appropriate option for you.
What should I expect during a medicine session?
Experiences vary widely. Some people notice relaxation, emotional openness, or shifts in perspective. There is no “right” way to experience a ketamine session, and you are supported throughout the process.
Are there conditions that exclude someone from KAP?
When prescribed and administered in a controlled setting, ketamine interacts with brain pathways involved in mood and cognition. Combined with psychotherapy, it can promote emotional flexibility, deeper self-exploration, and potential relief from symptoms when traditional treatments have been limited in effectiveness.
Will I feel immediate results?
Some people notice changes relatively quickly, while others experience gradual shifts over time. KAP works best when paired with integration and ongoing therapeutic support. Lasting change often comes from how insights are gently woven into daily life and not just from the ketamine experience itself
What does KAP look like?
KAP is broken down into 3 different types of sessions: preparation, medicine, and integration.
A typical KAP series includes:
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Preparation sessions to build a relationship or rapport, set intentions, and review your goals and medical history. There may be as many of these sessions as you need. Your felt safety in the space and with your provider (the set and setting) is integral to successful KAP sessions.
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After this session, you will meet with a physician to review your medical history.
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Medicine sessions where the medication is administered at a low, supervised dose paired with therapeutic support. This medication is prescribed by a physician who will do a thorough vetting process to ensure that KAP is appropriate and that you do not have any contraindications.
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These sessions are 3-4 hours, typically once per week for 6 weeks.
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Integration sessions afterward to reflect on your experience and apply insights to your life.
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These sessions are similar to talk therapy sessions, but focus on your thoughts, feelings, and experiences during your medicine sessions.
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These sessions take place within a few days of medicine sessions.
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If you have an existing therapist, clients often work with their existing therapists for integration sessions. We are available to consult with your existing provider(s) if this preferred.
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Does insurance cover KAP?
Coverage varies. Insurance coverage for ketamine-related services varies. Ketamine for mental health is often prescribed off-label, which means many aspects of KAP are self-pay. However, psychotherapy sessions may be eligible for insurance reimbursement depending on your plan.
How do I know if KAP is right for me?
The best way to determine fit is through a consultation. We’ll talk about your goals, concerns, history, and what you’re hoping for from therapy. Whether or not KAP is the right path, the focus is always on finding an approach that feels safe, ethical, and supportive for you.
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is not a guarantee of symptom relief and may not be appropriate for all individuals. Participation requires medical and clinical screening, informed consent, and ongoing therapeutic support. This service is provided within ethical, legal, and professional standards, with client safety and autonomy as the highest priorities.