What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a medication originally approved as an anesthetic. At lower doses, it can help treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and certain types of chronic pain.

What is Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAT)?  

Ketamine Assisted Therapy is a therapeutic approach that uses the medication ketamine in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat various mental health conditions, such as depression, PTSD, and anxiety. 

​

What is the Difference between KAT and KAP?

The terms Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) and Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAT) are often used interchangeably.  Both KAP and KAT use ketamine alongside therapeutic support to help with mental health conditions. The main difference is in the type of support provided:

• Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP): This approach includes a licensed psychotherapist who provides active psychotherapy during and after your ketamine session. It’s often used for deeper emotional and psychological work, such as processing trauma or long-standing patterns.

• Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAT): This is a broader term that includes different kinds of therapeutic support. Sometimes it looks like psychotherapy (making it KAP), but it can also be more supportive in nature—for example, guided reflection, mindfulness practices, or integration with a medical provider. The provider may be a therapist, nurse practitioner, physician, or other trained professional.

​​

How does Ketamine work?  

Ketamine is administered in a controlled setting, and is believed to work by altering neurotransmitter activity in the brain, which can lead to rapid improvements in mood and thought patterns. 

 

Does Insurance cover the appointment for the intake and or follow-up appointments? 

In most cases, insurance will help cover your intake appointment and follow-up visits, so you can focus on your care without added stress. The ketamine medication itself, which is filled at a pharmacy, is usually not covered by insurance. If that applies to you, we’ll walk you through the cost ahead of time so there are no surprises, and we’ll do our best to make treatment as accessible as possible.

​

What insurance companies do you accept?
We are in the process of onboarding with most major insurance companies, and this is still a work in progress. If you’re unsure whether your plan is accepted, please reach out—we’ll be happy to check for you and discuss your options.

​

Is Ketamine legal?  

Yes, ketamine is a legal medication when prescribed by a medical provider,  and KAT is practiced in various clinics around the world. 

 

What conditions can Ketamine treat?  

KAT supports healing for many different medical conditions, though it is most widely recognized for helping with  depression, PTSD, Anxiety, bipolar disorder, migraines, acute suicidal ideation. and substance use disorders, among others. 

 

Can Ketamine lead to addiction?  

When used in a controlled, clinical setting, KAT is carefully monitored to minimize any risk. While ketamine has the potential for misuse outside of medical supervision, treatments administered by professionals are designed to be safe and non-addictive.

 

How is ketamine administered in KAT?  

Ketamine can be administered intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), orally, or nasally, depending on the clinic and the specific needs of the patient. 

 

What is the success rate of  Ketamine and KAT for depression?

Ketamine treatment and KAT has shown encouraging results, with many patients feeling noticeable relief from symptoms quickly. Some experience improvements after the very first session/treatement, while others may need a series of treatments to see the full benefits. Everyone’s journey is unique, and we tailor care to your individual needs.

​​

How long do the benefits of Ketamine last?  

The duration of ketamine’s benefits can vary for each person, depending on factors such as dosage and treatment frequency. Research shows that improvements generally last from several days to several months. After the initial six IV infusions, many patients may require “booster” treatments if symptoms begin to return. The interval between boosters typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months, depending on individual needs.

​

Are there any risks associated with Ketamine?  

As with any treatment, Katamine can have possible side effects that may include brief disconnection, temporary increases in blood pressure, nausea, dizziness, or fatigue. Our team closely monitors each session to help keep you safe and comfortable.

​

Who should not take Ketamine?

Ketamine is safe for many people, but it may not be suitable if you have any of the following:

• Heart or blood pressure problems – including uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart attack, or severe heart disease.

• Severe liver disease – ketamine is processed by the liver.

• History of psychosis or certain mental health conditions – including schizophrenia or other severe psychiatric disorders.

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding – safety has not been fully established.

• Severe breathing problems – such as untreated sleep apnea, severe asthma, or lung disease.

• Eye or brain pressure concerns – including glaucoma or increased intracranial pressure.

• Active substance abuse – ketamine can be misused if there is a current alcohol or drug problem. 

• Allergy or previous bad reaction to ketamine.

 

Important:  At Just a Season, we are here to help. Your healthcare provider will review your medical history and current medications to ensure ketamine is safe for you. Please share all health conditions and medications before your treatment.