Blending Art and Science

Exploring the ALT. Approach to Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy 

Over the past decade, ketamine therapy has significantly grown in popularity in Salt Lake City. Initially FDA-approved as an anesthetic in the 1970s, ketamine's off-label use for mood disorders such as depression and anxiety began gaining traction in the early 2000s. The rise of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) in Salt Lake City mirrors broader trends across the United States, where clinics started offering this treatment for treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions around 2010-2015.

Today, a quick Google search for "ketamine-assisted psychotherapy" yields numerous results, showcasing multiple clinics that claim to provide safe, effective, and individualized treatment options. While many clinics do offer quality services, it’s essential to understand the full scope of what to expect from such treatments. This blog aims to give you a comprehensive overview of what to expect from start to finish when you begin ketamine-assisted psychotherapy treatment with the team at ALT., ensuring transparency and clarity in your treatment journey.

Austin Beck, Chief Clinical Director of ALT., often describes therapy as both an art and a science, reflecting its multifaceted nature that combines empirical evidence and personal touch. This duality is evident in how providers at ALT. use scientific knowledge to inform their practice while employing their interpersonal skills to tailor the approach to each client. Similarly, the team at ALT. views ketamine-assisted psychotherapy as both an art and a science. They strive to integrate these elements seamlessly, setting them apart from other clinics by providing a holistic and personalized treatment experience.

How It Begins

So, you’re interested in learning more about our services. Reaching out to a new clinic or provider can be daunting, but making that first call or sending that initial email is the first step. When you contact ALT., you’ll connect with one of our providers or admissions team members. They will give you an overview of what to expect logistically, explain the effects of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, and schedule your first appointment for a clinical consultation with a therapist.

All new clients at ALT. will meet with a clinician before beginning treatment. This clinician will be present throughout your ketamine session. Our sessions typically last about two hours and include both the medication injection and a psychotherapy session (these are typically blended together naturally).

During the initial clinical consultation, you will have the opportunity to meet your therapist, learn how this therapy can help you, ask any questions, and become acquainted with the person who will guide you through your sessions. We believe in collaboration and are happy to work with other therapists or providers involved in your treatment, pending the release of information. Continuity of care is valuable and enhances the integration process when the entire team is involved.

Following your initial consultation, we will schedule a meeting with our medical director. He ensures all clients are medically cleared and safe to use ketamine. The medical director also determines the appropriate dosages and works closely with our nurse to ensure a safe and comfortable session.

Leading Up To the Session 

Preparing for a ketamine therapy session involves several important steps to ensure the best possible experience and outcomes. Here are some key things to consider:

1. Understand the Process

It's important to educate yourself about ketamine therapy and have a thorough consultation with your provider to understand the process, benefits, and potential risks. During this consultation, discuss your medical history and any current medications with the therapist or medical director. At ALT., both of these steps are completed with our providers, but it’s beneficial to do some independent research or talk to your home healthcare providers beforehand. This ensures that you are fully informed and prepared for your therapy session.

2. Set Intentions

Mental Preparation: Spend time reflecting on your goals for the therapy. Setting clear intentions can help guide your experience and make the therapy more effective​. You can read ALT.’s blog “Preparing for the Journey” to learn more about setting intentions and preparation. 

3. Physical Preparation

Diet and Hydration: Avoid eating heavy meals at least a few hours before your session. However, stay hydrated by drinking water. Some providers recommend fasting for a few hours prior to the session to reduce the likelihood of nausea​. Avoid Substances: Do not consume alcohol or recreational drugs before your session. These substances can interfere with ketamine's effects and potentially increase risks​​.

4. Arrange for Support

Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you to and from the session. It is not safe to drive yourself after receiving ketamine due to its dissociative effects​. Post-Session Support: Ensure someone is available to stay with you for a few hours after the session to help you process the experience and provide support. Since ALT.'s sessions typically last about two hours, we always have someone available to sit with you throughout the duration of your session. This ensures you receive continuous support and care.

5. Comfort and Environment

Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing for your session to help you relax. Bring Personal Comfort Items: Some clients find it helpful to bring a blanket, pillow, or a comfort item such as a piece of jewelry or a photo. This can help create a sense of safety and familiarity during the session​​.

6. Mental and Emotional State

Mindfulness Practices: Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or gentle yoga in the days leading up to your session. This can help calm your mind and prepare you for the therapy​. Emotional Preparation: Be prepared for a range of emotions and experiences. Having a supportive environment and mindset can make it easier to navigate the therapy session​​.

7. Follow Provider Instructions

Specific Guidelines: Follow any specific instructions given by your provider, which may include medication adjustments or other preparatory steps tailored to your individual needs​.

By taking these steps, you can help ensure that you are physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared for your ketamine therapy session, increasing the likelihood of a positive and therapeutic experience.

The First Session 

We ask that all new clients arrive 5-10 minutes early before their session begins. Please arrange transportation in advance and consider bringing a pillow. Dress comfortably, with layers, as your body temperature may change during the session. Take time to use the restroom before starting. Our session rooms are equipped with a comfortable couch, seating, blankets, eye masks, Bluetooth headphones, and a curated playlist on an MP3 device.

Before your session begins, one of our staff members will help you get situated, answer any last-minute questions, and address any concerns. We always have a nurse on-site who will check your vitals before, during, and after the session, as well as administer the ketamine via intramuscular injection. We understand that anxiety and anticipation can be high, so we ensure everything is done at your pace to avoid feeling rushed or uncomfortable.

Clients will receive Zofran before the ketamine injection to help prevent nausea, which is the most common side effect. Once the initial set of vitals is completed and the client feels comfortable, the medication is administered. The effects of ketamine typically begin quickly, depending on the client's size and metabolism. At ALT., we always have someone in the room to monitor you during the experience, providing a consistent sense of support.

If desired, a loved one can attend the session, and we encourage clients to discuss this option during the initial consultation call. The effects of ketamine can last anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour. During this time, there are no expectations or rules; this is your opportunity to be with yourself and experience the journey in your own way. It is our responsibility at ALT. to ensure your safety and provide support throughout the session, whatever that looks like for you.

Some clients may experience strong emotions and become tearful, while others may be talkative and want to process their thoughts aloud. Some might prefer to remain quiet throughout the entire session. Remember, this time is for you, and there is no right or wrong way to experience the session.

A therapist or another staff member will monitor your oxygen levels during the session and take notes based on observations. These notes can be very helpful for the processing that occurs after the effects of the medication begin to lift.

After about an hour, clients typically begin to feel more like themselves, making this a good time for impactful and clear processing. However, it is entirely up to the client how they wish to proceed. The therapist may discuss some of the notes taken during the session and ask about the client’s experience. It’s important to note that clients may still feel some effects or experience nausea, so we always meet them where they are.

The rest of the hour is dedicated to addressing the client’s needs and preferences. When they are ready, they can leave. All clients will be contacted in the following days for a follow-up session, if desired. During this, clients can decide if they wish to continue with the series, and if so, another session will be scheduled for the following week.

Post Ketamine Session 

After the first ketamine session, clients may experience a range of feelings, including clarity, emotional release, or lingering disorientation. These initial reactions can be profound and impactful, underscoring the importance of integrating these experiences into daily life. Collaborating with home providers and support systems is essential for this integration process. Working closely with primary care providers, therapists, and supportive friends or family members can help clients make sense of their experiences, reinforce positive changes, and address any challenges that arise. This collaborative approach ensures that the benefits of ketamine therapy are maximized, promoting sustained mental health improvements and overall well-being. Integration support helps translate the insights gained during the session into actionable steps in everyday life, fostering long-term healing and personal growth. ALT.’s therapists are always happy to collaborate with home care providers to facilitate the integration process, ensuring cohesive continuity of care.

How We’re Different 

Sierra Golding, one of ALT.’s client guides, recently emphasized in an interview, “Healing happens in a community, and that’s a core part of our company’s culture. At ALT., you’re supported throughout your entire experience by people who are skilled at holding space for both your body and mind. This level of continuous, personalized support is something that sets us apart from other clinics. Your healing journey isn’t something you have to go through alone; we’re here to support you every step of the way.”

Our commitment to individualized care, a humanistic approach, and a genuine desire to help clients who feel they have no other options define our mission. We strive to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors receives the experience they deserve and feels supported throughout their journey.

If you are interested in learning more about ketamine assisted psychotherapy at ALT. call 800-562-9563 or email info@alttherapy.com. We look forward to supporting you!