Enhance Your Mental Health Wellness with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Are you struggling with persistent mental health disorders that seem resistant to traditional treatments? Ketamine therapy offers a groundbreaking alternative to help patients struggling to find relief from mental health symptoms. At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we provide a safe space for ketamine experiences that combine the power of this innovative treatment with expert psychotherapy.
*Please note that Trisha Andrews, MA, LMFT, CST, Dalliance Sexual Wellness Collective nor Dalliance Psychedelics provides or sells psychedelic medicine. We have partnered with Skylight Psychedelics to provide sublingual Ketamine for KAP. While psilocybin is decriminalized for personal use in Denver, it is not approved for clinical use until 2024.
Do you find yourself trapped in a cycle of depression, anxiety, or trauma, desperately seeking relief but finding none? The suffering caused by these conditions can be overwhelming, impacting every aspect of your life and leaving you feeling hopeless. Do you wake up each day feeling weighed down by your symptoms, unable to engage in life or find joy in your relationships fully.
Traditional therapies and medications may have left you feeling frustrated and discouraged, wondering if you'll ever find a way to break free from the grip of your mental health challenges.
But there's hope.
Dalliance Sexual Wellness offers a groundbreaking alternative therapy: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). This innovative treatment combines the powerful effects of ketamine with expert psychotherapy to provide rapid and lasting relief from even the most debilitating mental health conditions.
How it works
What to Expect
Below is a general outline of what a typical Ketamine-Assisted Therapy treatment process might look like:
Step 1: Information session
A free 15-minute phone consultation with Trisha Andrews, MA, LMFT, CST to learn about ketamine and KAP, answer any additional questions, and decide if KAP could be a good fit for you. If, after the consultation it is determined that KAP may be a good fit, you will coordinate your medical screening and assessment with Skylight Psychedelics
step 2: Medical Screening and Assessment
Ketamine requires a prescription from an authorized medical doctor. Prior to undergoing KAP, patients must undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine whether they are good candidates for the treatment. This involves a medical and psychiatric evaluation with our medical partner, Skylight Psychedelics.
Step 3: 1-3 Preparation session(s)
Before the administration of ketamine, the therapist will generally prepare the patient by discussing the process, setting therapeutic goals, and establishing a therapeutic relationship. In these sessions we will work collaboratively to identify your goals, intentions, make sure you feel well prepared for what to expect in your medicine sessions.
Step 4: 3-Hour Medicine and Integration Session
Ketamine will be self-administered orally. During the ketamine experience, the therapist may engage the client in various therapeutic exercises, take notes on any thoughts shared or physical responses during the medicine session, or to simply hold space for the patient's experience, depending on the client’s therapeutic goals and response during the medicine session(s).
STEP 5: 1-3 Integration(s)
After the ketamine experience, patients engage in integration sessions where they work with their therapist to make sense of their experience and how to integrate any insights or shifts into their daily life.
STEP 6: Follow-Up Medicine and Integration Session(s)
Subsequent medicine sessions are scheduled, and adjustments may be made to the treatment plan based on the patient’s therapeutic goals and response to the therapy.
Understanding Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: A New Frontier in Mental Health Care
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is a relatively new form of treatment that has been gaining recognition for its effectiveness in addressing a wide range of mental health disorders. This innovative approach involves the use of prescribed doses of ketamine, as an adjunct to traditional psychotherapy techniques, creating a powerful therapeutic experience.
Ketamine is a medication that was originally developed as an anesthetic but has since shown remarkable potential in the treatment of various mental health conditions. It is currently the only legal psychedelic medicine available to mental health providers for the treatment of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Its unique properties make it an ideal candidate for use in psychotherapy:
Rapid onset of action
Ketamine has shown unique properties in altering brain function, particularly in calming or stabilizing certain neurological processes. ketamine’s ability to calm the brain is primarily attributed to its modulation of glutamate neurotransmission, enhancement of neuroplasticity via Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) a protein that supports the survival and growth of neurons.
Promotion of neuroplasticity
How Ketamine Works in the Brain
The effectiveness of ketamine in treating mental health conditions is due to its unique mechanisms of action in the brain. It stimulates new dendritic and synaptic growth between the neurons connecting our mood, leading to rapid and often long-lasting improvements in mental health symptoms. This process, known as neuroplasticity, can help rewire patterns associated with mental health disorders.
NMDA receptor blockade: Ketamine blocks certain receptors in the brain, leading to rapid changes in neurotransmitter activity.
Increased BDNF production: It stimulates the production of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, promoting brain cell growth and connectivity.
Neuroplasticity effects: Ketamine enhances the brain's ability to form new neural connections, potentially rewiring patterns associated with mental health disorders.
The KAP (Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy) Process: A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery
At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we've developed a comprehensive ketamine-assisted therapy process that ensures a safe, supportive, and transformative experience for our patients. Our approach offers fully supported ketamine experiences that combine the therapeutic potential of ketamine with expert psychological guidance.
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Before beginning ketamine-assisted therapy, a medical screening is done through Skylight Psychedelics and they prescribe the medication which is sent to the client’s home and psychological assessments to ensure that KAP is the right fit for you. Our experienced therapists work closely with you to set intentions and prepare you for the psychedelic experience.
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Skylight will prescribe sublingual lozenges for ketamine administration. Ketamine lozenges are solid, typically small tablets or lozenges that are placed under the tongue. They are formulated to slowly dissolve, allowing the medication to be absorbed through the mucous membranes.
Sublingual ketamine lozenges offer a method of administration that balances rapid absorption with ease of use, making them suitable for certain medical applications where immediate relief or rapid onset of action is beneficial.
The lozenges are placed directly under the tongue, where they begin to dissolve. It's important to keep them under the tongue without chewing or swallowing for the duration specified in the prescription instructions.
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During the ketamine session, you'll enter an altered state of consciousness that can facilitate profound insights and emotional breakthroughs. Our skilled therapists support and guide you through this experience, ensuring your safety and comfort.
Integration and Follow-up Therapy : Following each ketamine session, your therapist will provide integration therapy to help you process your experiences and apply the insights gained to your daily life. This ongoing support is crucial for maximizing the benefits of KAP.
Conditions Treated with Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
Ketamine therapy has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating a wide range of mental health disorders and chronic pain conditions. Here are some of the primary conditions we address:
Depression, including treatment-resistant cases
Anxiety disorders
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Chronic pain
Problematic substance use
Patients with treatment-resistant depression often experience rapid relief of symptoms, sometimes within hours of their first ketamine session.
Expanding the Horizons of Mental Health Treatment
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) represents a relatively new form of treatment for mental health disorders that is revolutionizing the field of mental health care. By combining the unique properties of ketamine with evidence-based therapeutic approaches, KAP offers a powerful modality for addressing a wide range of psychological challenges.
Trauma-Informed Care in KAP
At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we understand the profound impact that trauma can have on an individual's mental health and overall well-being. That's why we integrate trauma-informed care principles into our KAP sessions. This approach ensures that:
Patients feel safe and supported throughout the entire process
The potential for re-traumatization is minimized by providing therapeutic tools for emotional regulation and grounding during the preparation phase
Treatment is tailored to address the unique needs of trauma survivors
By combining trauma-informed care with the neuroplasticity-enhancing effects of ketamine, we create an environment conducive to deep healing and transformation.
Addressing Social Anxiety through KAP
Social anxiety can be a debilitating condition that significantly impacts an individual's quality of life. KAP has shown promising results in helping patients overcome social anxiety by:
Reducing fear responses in social situations
Enhancing cognitive flexibility and perspective-taking abilities
Increasing self-confidence and social engagement
Through carefully tailored dosage and therapeutic support, KAP can help individuals break free from the constraints of social anxiety and cultivate more fulfilling relationships.
The Cognitive Benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
In addition to its mood-enhancing properties, ketamine has been shown to have significant cognitive benefits that can enhance the therapeutic process:
Improved problem-solving abilities
Enhanced creativity and lateral thinking
Increased mental flexibility and adaptability
These cognitive enhancements can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with rigid thought patterns or those seeking to overcome maladaptive behaviors.
The Importance of Proper Dosage in KAP
Determining the right dosage is crucial for the success of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. Experienced medical professionals at Skylight Psychedelics work closely with each patient to find the optimal dosage that balances therapeutic effects with patient comfort and safety. Factors considered in dosage determination include:
Individual body chemistry and metabolism
Previous experiences with psychedelic substances
The specific mental health condition being treated
Treatment goals and desired outcomes
Current medications taken and dosages
By working with our medical partners Skylight Psychedelics, clients are provided with a careful calibration of the dosage, to ensure that each KAP session provides the maximum therapeutic benefit while minimizing potential side effects.
A Holistic Approach to Mental Health
At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we believe in a holistic health approach to mental wellness. While Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is a powerful tool, we recognize that true healing often requires a multifaceted approach. Our comprehensive treatment plans may include:
Mindfulness and meditation practices
Stress reduction techniques
Preparation sessions to prepare for the psychedelic experience
Integration sessions to understand, make meaning and lasting change from the psychedelic experience
By addressing all aspects of an individual's well-being, we create a foundation for lasting mental health and resilience.
The Role of Counseling Therapeutic integration in KAP
Counseling plays a crucial role in the Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy process. Our skilled therapists provide ongoing support through:
Pre-ketamine preparation sessions
Guided support during ketamine experiences
Post-session integration counseling
This comprehensive counseling approach ensures that insights gained during ketamine sessions are effectively integrated into daily life, leading to sustained positive changes.
Conflict Resolution and Personal Growth
Many individuals seeking KAP struggle with internal conflicts or interpersonal issues. Our therapists are trained in advanced conflict resolution techniques that can help patients:
Identify and address underlying sources of conflict
Develop healthier communication patterns
Cultivate greater empathy and understanding
Build more harmonious relationships with themselves and others
By combining these conflict resolution skills with KAP's transformative potential, patients often experience profound personal growth and improved quality of life.
The Therapeutic Relationship in KAP
At the heart of successful Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is a strong therapeutic relationship between the patient and therapist. Our experienced therapists are dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where healing can occur. The therapeutic relationship in KAP is characterized by:
Trust and mutual respect
Open and honest communication
Collaborative goal-setting
Ongoing support and encouragement
This strong therapeutic relationship serves as a foundation for the transformative work that occurs during ketamine sessions and beyond.
A Path to Healthy Living
The ultimate goal of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy at Dalliance Sexual Wellness is to help our patients achieve a healthy, balanced, and fulfilling life by exploring a deeper awareness of self. Through the combined power of ketamine and expert therapeutic support, many of our patients report:
Improved mood and emotional regulation
Enhanced relationships and social connections
Greater sense of purpose and meaning in life
Increased resilience in the face of life's challenges
Overall improvement in quality of life
By addressing symptoms and underlying causes of distress, KAP paves the way for truly healthy living and long-term well-being.
Hope for Major Depressive Disorder
For individuals struggling with major depressive disorder, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy offers a beacon of hope. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to show effects, ketamine often provides rapid relief from depressive symptoms. This quick action can be life-changing for those battling major depressive disorder, offering:
Rapid reduction in suicidal ideation
Improved mood and motivation
Enhanced ability to engage in daily activities
A renewed sense of hope and possibility
While KAP is not a cure for major depressive disorder, it can provide significant symptom relief and create a window of opportunity for deeper therapeutic work and lasting change.
The Transformative Benefits of Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy offers numerous advantages over traditional mental health care approaches. By combining the use of medically prescribed doses of ketamine,\ as an adjunct to psychotherapy, we have potential to achieve rapid and often profound improvements in mental health symptoms.
Rapid relief of symptoms
Efficacy in treatment-resistant cases
Potential for long-lasting effects
Fewer side effects compared to traditional antidepressants
Combines pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches
Many patients report experiencing significant improvements in their mental health after just a few KAP sessions, with effects that can last for weeks or even months.
The Science Behind Ketamine's Effectiveness
The remarkable efficacy of ketamine therapy in treating various mental health conditions is rooted in its unique effects on the brain. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily target neurotransmitter levels, ketamine works by stimulating new dendritic and synaptic growth between the neurons connecting our mood centers. This process, known as neuroplasticity, can lead to rapid and often long-lasting improvements in mental health symptoms.
Neuroplasticity and Mental Health
The brain's ability to form new neural connections and reorganize itself is crucial for mental health and cognitive function. Ketamine's ability to enhance neuroplasticity can have far-reaching effects:
Breaking patterns of negative thinking associated with depression
Reducing the impact of traumatic memories in PTSD
Enhancing cognitive flexibility in anxiety disorders
Promoting the formation of new, healthier neural pathways
This unique mechanism of action is what allows ketamine-assisted therapy to help patients struggling to find relief from mental health symptoms that haven't responded to traditional treatments.
Rapid Onset of Action
One of the most striking features of ketamine therapy is its rapid onset of action. While traditional antidepressants can take weeks to show effects, many patients report significant improvements in mood and symptoms within hours or days of their first ketamine session. This quick action can be life-changing, especially for individuals dealing with severe depression or suicidal thoughts.
Potential for Long-lasting Effects
The neuroplasticity-enhancing effects of ketamine can lead to changes in brain function that persist long after the drug has left the system. When combined with targeted psychotherapy, these changes can translate into lasting improvements in mood, thought patterns, and behavior. This makes ketamine assisted therapy a powerful tool for achieving long-term mental health and well-being.
The Future of Mental Health Treatment
As the only legal psychedelic medicine available to mental health providers for the treatment of various mental health conditions, ketamine is paving the way for a new era in psychiatric care. The success of ketamine therapy has sparked increased interest in psychedelic-assisted therapies, leading to ongoing research into other compounds such as psilocybin and MDMA.
At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we're committed to staying at the forefront of these developments, continually refining our approach to ketamine assisted therapy to provide the most effective and innovative care possible. By offering fully supported ketamine experiences within a comprehensive therapeutic framework, we're helping to shape the future of mental health treatment and offering hope to those who have struggled to find relief through traditional methods.
Understanding the Risks and Side Effects
While Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is generally well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of potential risks and side effects:
Short-term Side Effects
Dissociation
Nausea and dizziness
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
These effects are typically mild and short-lived, resolving shortly after the ketamine session ends.
Contraindications
KAP may not be suitable for everyone. By partnering with Skylight Psychedelics who provide a thorough screening process that ensures that we only facilitate this treatment to those who can safely benefit from it.
The KAP Experience: Transformative Journeys
Many patients describe their Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy experiences as profound and life-changing:
"After years of struggling with depression, KAP gave me a new lease on life. I feel like I've rediscovered myself and my ability to find joy in the world." - Sarah, 34
Our therapists report witnessing remarkable breakthroughs and transformations in their patients, often in cases where other treatments have failed.
Comparing KAP to Other Treatment Modalities
While traditional talk therapy and antidepressant medications have their place, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy offers unique advantages:
| Treatment | Speed of Effect | Efficacy for Treatment-Resistant Cases | Side-Effect Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| KAP | Rapid (hours to days) | High | Generally mild and short-lived |
| Traditional Antidepressants | Slow (weeks to months) | Variable | Can be significant and long-lasting |
| Talk Therapy Alone | Gradual | Variable | Minimal Side Effects |
Accessibility and Cost of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we strive to make KAP accessible to those who need it most.
Insurance Coverage
We are partnered with EAP Enthea, but no other insurance is currently accepted. Clients will need to check with their insurance provider if Out of Network Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy is covered.
Investment in Your Mental Health
While the cost of KAP can vary, many patients find it to be a worthwhile investment in their long-term mental health and well-being. Through our partnership with Skylight Psychedelics, we offer various treatment packages to suit different needs and budgets.
The Future of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
The field of KAP is rapidly evolving, with ongoing research and clinical trials exploring its potential for treating a wider range of conditions. As evidence of its effectiveness continues to grow, we may see Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy become more integrated into mainstream mental health care.
Ongoing Research
Current studies are investigating the use of KAP for conditions such as:
Bipolar disorder
Eating disorders
Substance use disorders
Potential for FDA Approval
As research progresses, there's a possibility that Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy may receive FDA approval for specific conditions, potentially increasing its accessibility and acceptance in the medical community.
Embrace a New Path to Mental Health and Wellness
Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy represents a ground-breaking approach to mental health treatment, offering hope to those who have struggled to find relief through traditional methods. At Dalliance Sexual Wellness, we're committed to providing compassionate, effective care that empowers you to overcome your challenges and rediscover a life of joy and fulfilment.
If you're ready to take the first step towards transforming your mental health, we invite you to reach out and learn more about how KAP can help you. Our team of experienced therapists is here to guide you through every step of the journey, providing the support and expertise you need to achieve lasting healing and growth.
Don't let mental health disorders hold you back any longer. Discover the transformative power of Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and unlock your full potential for happiness and well-being. Contact Dalliance Sexual Wellness today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter future.
Ketamine for Couples
When given a psychelytic (low dose) of ketamine, both partners will enter a relaxed state, allowing the couple to feel more comfortable, vulnerable, and open to sharing and receiving feedback on their emotions with one another. Couples will feel safer and more comfortable sharing because the relaxing effects of the ketamine treatment help suppress the nervous system’s override to fight, flight, freeze responses. Instead, patients are better equipped to share their emotional state, listen to their partner's emotions, and form healthier habits with communication.
Research has shown that partners that undergo ketamine treatments together will also experience an increase in neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity allows individuals and couples to adopt new, healthier habits surrounding communication and relating to one another. With the help of the medicine, couples are able to hold their ground during challenging conversations, find more empathy and compassion for their partners, and can step outside of their unhelpful pursuer or withdrawer strategies.
Dalliance Psychedelics Couple CAP Package — click to download details
Cost
At this time, ketamine is still considered an out-of-network expense for most insurance companies. With that in mind, some insurance companies may pay for part or all of the preparation and integration sessions. Dalliance Psychedelics is happy to provide you with a superbill that you can submit to your insurance
Initial 15-minute consultation: Free
50-min preparation sessions: $220 per session
50-min integration sessions: $220 per session
75-min couple preparation sessions: $340 per session
75-min couple integration sessions: $340 per session
3-hour medicine and integration sessions: $660 per session
KAP Recommended Treatment Protocols:
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• (1) 50 min-preparation session
• (1) 50-min integration session
• (1) 3-hour medicine and integration session
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• (1) 3-hour medicine session
• (1) 50-min integration session
*Should client request additional preparation or integration sessions, they will be an additional cost
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• 1 couple preparation session (75 min)
• 1 couple psycholytic medicine sessions (3 hours each)
• 1 couple psychedelic medicine sessions (3 hours each)
• 2 couple follow-up integration sessions (75 minutes each)
• Optional tandem psychedelic medicine session and couple integration session (3 hours / 75 min)
*Should client request additional preparation or integration sessions, they will be an additional cost
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Introduction to the Medicine - $289
Two doses of sublingual ketamine for clients interested in getting to know the medicine.
The Standard Experience - $599
Six doses of sublingual ketamine for those interested in working with their therapist beyond two sessions, with increasing dosing and deeper psychedelic experiences as you move through sessions.
Go Deeper - $679
Ten doses of sublingual ketamine for those interested in deepening their inner work, promoting further connect with their inner healer.