Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP): An Evidence-Based Path to Healing
In recent years, ketamine has emerged as a powerful and promising tool in mental health care — especially for individuals living with moderate to severe depression who may not have responded to traditional treatments. Research continues to support its effectiveness, particularly in outpatient settings.
At Balanced Mental Wellness, we are proud to offer ketamine as part of our broader, integrative mental health services — specifically through Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). We choose to provide KAP exclusively, as it aligns with the latest evidence-based practices that emphasize the importance of therapeutic integration for long-term healing.
What Is KAP — and How Is It Different?
While many are familiar with the model of repeated ketamine infusions focused on rapid symptom relief, KAP offers a different, psychotherapy-centered approach. Instead of relying solely on ketamine to treat depression, KAP integrates lower doses of the medication within a structured therapeutic framework.
In KAP sessions, ketamine is used to gently “loosen the mind,” helping clients access difficult or repressed memories, process trauma, and explore emotional patterns — all in a guided, safe, and supported environment with a trained therapist. The focus is not on repeated infusions, but rather on deeper therapeutic work and emotional integration.
As psychiatrist Dr. Forcen put it:
“Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is not trying to compete with ketamine therapy. It is just trying to give patients a different option. A patient and their provider will decide which model is going to work better. These two models should coexist and complement each other.”
How We Use KAP at Balanced Mental Wellness
At Balanced Mental Wellness, we view KAP as one of many personalized treatment options we offer — but unlike other practices, we exclusively use KAP because it supports long-term healing through evidence-based, trauma-informed care.
For some clients, KAP may help bring clarity and emotional processing where other therapies have stalled. For others — especially those living with complex PTSD or long-standing mood disorders — KAP can serve as a transformative tool for insight and growth.
Our licensed mental health providers work collaboratively with clients to determine the best care path, always prioritizing safety, integration, and emotional well-being.
Is KAP Right for You?
If you’re curious about whether Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy might be a good fit for you or a loved one, we’re here to help. Reach out to our team to learn more, ask questions, or begin a thoughtful, judgment-free conversation about your options.