Unlock the transformative power of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy with our esteemed guest, Crystal Myers, a licensed professional counselor and owner of Life Works Professional Counseling. This episode takes you on an enlightening journey through the origins, mechanisms, and modern therapeutic uses of ketamine. Crystal demystifies common misconceptions, such as its notorious label as a “horse tranquilizer,” and explains how this dissociative anesthetic, when used at therapeutic doses, can help treat depression, anxiety, and complex PTSD without causing unconsciousness.
In our thorough discussion, Crystal details who might be an ideal candidate for ketamine therapy and who might not, based on specific medical histories. We also clarify the FDA approval status of ketamine treatments, noting the approval of Spravato, a nasal spray version for depression. Crystal walks us through the typical ketamine treatment experience, offering practical advice on managing potential side effects and highlighting the importance of initial acclimation sessions under professional guidance. It’s an eye-opening look at a therapy that could offer hope where traditional treatments have failed.
Lastly, delve into the structure and benefits of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Crystal breaks down a typical treatment round, emphasizing the significance of integration sessions to reinforce new neural pathways. We explore the substantial positive impacts reported in clinical studies and discuss why ketamine-assisted psychotherapy stands out among other therapeutic modalities. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and connect with Crystal Myers, as we continue our compelling series on ketamine-assisted therapy, promising you a fresh perspective on mental health treatment.