- Lehi, Utah
- Kendall@goldenpoppywellness.com
- (801) 210-1224
Ketamine is a fast-acting dissociative anesthetic that is used in both medical and mental health settings. It works differently from traditional antidepressants by affecting the brain’s glutamate system. Ketamine can temporarily change how the brain processes thoughts, emotions, and sensory experiences. It may also help create new connections between brain cells, allowing the brain to become more flexible and less stuck in rigid or negative thought patterns.
Research has found ketamine to be helpful for individuals experiencing:
Ketamine has been used safely for many years as an anesthetic in medical and hospital settings, including with very young and medically fragile patients. As Sunny Strasburg explains, “The youngest babies in the NICU and the most fragile elderly patients in hospital are given even higher doses.”
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy uses doses that are typically much lower than those used for general anesthesia. Your provider will carefully determine the appropriate dose for you and monitor you throughout your session.
At Golden Poppy Wellness, we offer ketamine through either IV administration or intramuscular injection (a small shot). You and your provider will discuss the options and determine which route is best for you.
Many people begin with a series of 4–6 sessions, generally scheduled about a week apart. Depending on your individual needs and response to treatment, booster sessions may be recommended every few months or when you feel additional support would be beneficial.
Having a trained mental health professional present throughout your session can provide reassurance and support if you need help feeling grounded while experiencing the effects of ketamine.
Before the medicine is administered, your therapist will help you set an intention for your session. After the medicine begins to wear off, your therapist will support you through the integration process, helping you reflect on and make meaning of your experience.
Having a trained professional who is not directly involved in your personal life can provide a safe and supportive space to explore thoughts, emotions, and experiences that may arise during the session.
We ask patients to plan for approximately 2½-hour sessions. You will typically experience the strongest effects of the medicine for approximately 45 minutes to an hour, although this can vary from person to person.
The additional time allows you to set an intention before the medicine is administered and gives you time afterward to process your experience and begin planning for integration.
If you are not already meeting with a therapist in our building, you will have at least one session with a therapist before beginning ketamine treatment and a medical intake with our provider to ensure you are a good candidate for ketamine therapy. Your therapist will help you identify an intention for your session and prepare you for the experience.
On your own, you may find it helpful to journal, reflect, or meditate on your intention. It is also important to take care of your body by getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and following any additional instructions provided by your medical provider.
Your provider will discuss specific fasting instructions with you before your session. Generally, you will be asked to fast for at least four hours before receiving ketamine. Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by our medical provider.
No. It is not safe to drive yourself home after receiving ketamine. The effects of ketamine can temporarily affect your coordination, judgment, and ability to safely operate a vehicle.
You will be required to arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home before beginning your session. Most find it best to take it easy for the remainder of the day following their session.
Ketamine affects everyone differently. You may experience changes in your perception of time, space, your body, or your surroundings. Some people describe feeling detached from their body or as though they are observing their thoughts and experiences from a different perspective. You may also experience changes in colors, sounds, or other sensory experiences. It is said your “protectors” often go to sleep during your session, allowing for new perspectives and insights. Your therapist will be with you throughout the experience and can help you feel grounded and supported.
Some people may experience temporary side effects such as dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate or blood pressure, drowsiness, or changes in perception. Some people may also experience anxiety or uncomfortable emotions during the session. Your provider will monitor you throughout your treatment and discuss potential side effects with you beforehand. Your provider and mental health therapist are trained in how to assist and treat possible side effects.
This depends on the medication. Your medical provider will review your medications with you before treatment and let you know if anything needs to be adjusted or temporarily held before your session. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication unless instructed to do so by your medical provider.
Yes. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is different from general anesthesia. You will generally remain conscious and able to communicate with your therapist and provider, although you may experience an altered state of awareness or feel disconnected from your body or surroundings.
Most people remember at least some of their experience, but memories may feel different from an ordinary day. Some people remember their experience very clearly, while others may have pieces that are difficult to recall. Your therapist can help you process whatever you remember during the integration portion of your session, and record it in a journal for you to reflect back on at a later time.
You may not be a good candidate if you are experiencing any of the following:
