The current, most probable, understanding of ketamine’s mode of action in the brain is as an NMDA antagonist working through the glutamate neurotransmitter system. This is a very different pathway than that of other psychiatric drugs such as the SSRIs, SNRIS, anti-psychotics, benzodiazepines, etc. Ketamine is classified as a dissociative anesthetic, with dissociation meaning a sense of disconnection from one’s ordinary reality and usual self. At the dosage level administered to you, you will most likely experience mild anesthetic, anxiolytic, antidepressant and, potentially, psychedelic effects.

While more recent work has demonstrated the possibility of an anti-depressant response to low dosages of ketamine administered intravenously (IV), intra-nasally, intramuscularly (IM), and sublingually (orally) that produce minimal psychedelic effects, this effect tends to be more sustained with repeated use – in other words, a cumulative effect. It is our view that psychedelic, ‘dissociative’ experiences combined with psychotherapy may well be instrumental in providing a more robust effect of the medication.

This may include a positive change in outlook and character that we term a ‘transformative’ response. Relaxation from ordinary concerns and usual mind, while maintaining conscious awareness of the flow of mind under the influence of ketamine is a characteristic effect of the medication. This tends to lead to a disruption of negative feelings and obsessional preoccupations. It is our view that this relief and the exploration and experience of other possible states of consciousness are likely impactful in the healing process.

As therapists, we act as guides to the experience, and process the experience and its impacts with our clients before (via intention setting discussions), during and after the sessions. Our therapists are training specifically in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and each therapist brings their own experiences and outside training into the therapeutic process as well.