What Happens During A Ketamine Session?

Oral ketamine, also known as ketamine lozenges or trochees, is an alternative method of therapy. Here is a general outline of what an oral ketamine session looks like:

1. Assessment: Prior to the session, you will likely have a comprehensive psychiatric assessment with a licensed nurse or doctor to evaluate your medical history, mental health condition, and determine if oral ketamine treatment is suitable for you. This assessment may include discussions about your current medications, allergies, and any potential risks or contraindications.

2. Prescription and Preparation: If oral ketamine therapy is approved and appropriate for you, a prescription for ketamine lozenges or trochees will be provided. The medication is typically in the form of 12 small, flavored lozenge or dissolvable tablet. They are very well flavored, and taste more like stale aspirin.

3. Instructions: You will receive specific instructions on how to take the oral ketamine medication. I provide therapeutic sessions with medicine at my home office. It is a quiet and private space that I have reserved exclusively for this type of work. It is crucial to create a calm and supportive environment for the session. In collaboration with the patient, we create a ritual that includes intention setting, which sets the tone for the therapeutic experience. The ritual does not guarantee the session will follow set expectations, but it helps create a platform for a healing experience. I offer an interactive model of therapy with medicine, meaning I am not a sitter but facilitate the healing of deep emotional wounds.

4. Administration: You and I will agree on a time to take the medicine. The medication is typically placed under the tongue or in the cheek, where it slowly dissolves and is absorbed into the bloodstream.

5. Experience: The therapeutic effects of oral ketamine are relatively fast, within 10-15 minutes. The specific sensations and experiences can vary from person to person. You may undergo a dissociative state, changes in perception, altered thought patterns, emotional shifts, or other effects similar to those observed during ketamine infusion sessions. Previous meetings prepare the patient for the potential intensity of the experience. It is highly valuable to have someone you trust to hold space with you. The therapeutic peak for oral ketamine lasts approximately 45 minutes to, sometimes up to an hour and a half. This is the time that would be utilized to change negative self perceptions, process deep wounds, or both. I prefer to squeeze the most "juice" out of medicine sessions by processing as much as possible from a time period, theme, or topic.

6. Integration and Support: After our session with oral Ketamine, it is essential to have a period of quiet and reflection. I normally suggest for my patients to engage in activities that promote relaxation, introspection, or creative expression. Having a support person available to talk to or assist you during this time can be beneficial. My patients are encouraged to meet with me soon after to flesh out details of the experience and to discuss your experience, progress, and any insights gained during the oral ketamine therapy. These follow-up appointments allow for ongoing assessment, adjustment of the treatment plan if necessary, and support throughout the therapeutic process.

It's important to note that oral ketamine therapy should always be conducted under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. The specific protocols, dosages, and guidelines may vary depending on the individual's needs and the healthcare provider's recommendations. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in ketamine therapy to ensure proper administration, monitoring, and support during the oral ketamine sessions. I am a Certified Psychedelic Assisted Therapist with more than 15 years of experience treating issues related to Complex Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.