Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative approach to mental health care that combines the therapeutic benefits of ketamine with the supportive guidance of psychotherapy. Ketamine, traditionally used as an anesthetic, has been shown to have profound effects on mood and cognition, making it a powerful tool in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health issues.

How Does Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Work?

In KAP, sublingual ketamine is self administered in a safe, controlled environment. The therapeutic effects of ketamine create a unique state of consciousness that can facilitate deep psychological healing and emotional processing. During this altered state, you may experience new insights, reduced emotional defenses, and a greater connection to your inner self, all of which can be explored and integrated with the help of your therapist.

Working with Journey Clinical for Safe and Effective Care

To ensure the highest standards of safety and care, Cody collaborates with Journey Clinical, a leading provider of ketamine services. Journey Clinical provides medical oversight, including the prescription of sublingual ketamine, while I focus on guiding you through the psychotherapeutic aspects of your journey. This partnership allows for a comprehensive and holistic approach to your healing process, combining medical expertise with therapeutic support.

How Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Works with Journey Clinical + Cost Considerations:

The process begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation conducted by Journey Clinical. They now accept BCBS and Cigna insurance plans. 8Phases Counseling only accepts BCBS at this time.

For first-time patients, the initial medical consultation costs $250 (if you do not have BCBS or Cigna), during which a licensed provider evaluates your health and determines if KAP is suitable for you. If approved, the prescriber will provide enough medication for two dosing sessions at a cost of $85.

If you choose to continue with the recommended 6-8 dosing sessions, then consider this cost break down:

Follow-Up Medical Consultation with Journey Clinical: $150 (required at least once per quarter). Again, this may be covered fully or partially, dependent on your BCBS plan.

Cost of Medication: $145 (enough for up to six sessions).

Therapy Sessions: 1 hour of your dosing session can be billed to your BCBS plan. The other 2 hours of the dosing session is paid out of pocket.

Who Can Benefit from Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

KAP is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not found relief through traditional therapies or medications. It can be a transformative experience for those dealing with:

  • Depression, including treatment-resistant depression
  • Anxiety disorders
  • PTSD and trauma-related symptoms
  • Chronic pain

What to Expect in a KAP Session

Your KAP journey includes three therapy components: a preparation session, a dosing session, and an integration session.

The preparation session helps you set intentions and prepare for the experience. The dosing session lasts 2-3 hours, during which the medication is self administered in a supportive therapeutic environment. While one hour of the dosing session is covered by insurance, the other 2 hours of the dosing session are out of pocket pay. Integration sessions are typically scheduled 24-72 hours after your psychedelic medicine journey. Integration sessions are billed through your insurance plan.

 

References and Resources:

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Clinical Evidence: https://www.journeyclinical.com/resources/ketamine-assisted-psychotherapy-clinical-evidence

2023 | Ketamine and psychotherapy for the treatment of psychiatric disorders: systematic review

2022 | A retrospective analysis of ketamine intravenous therapy for depression in real-world care settings

2022 | Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: A Systematic Narrative Review of the Literature

2022 | Toward Synergies of Ketamine and Psychotherapy

2022 | Ketamine treatment for depression: a review

Below are some brief, helpful places to get started with learning more about KAP: