The dynamic of a group experience can allow you to go deeper in your healing journey. Group Ketamine-Assisted Therapy combines ketamine therapy, psychotherapy, and community in a safe and supported environment. While going through treatment and healing alone may feel isolating at times, the small, group setting presents an opportunity for you to be seen and understood by others experiencing similar challenges.
As a result of the group structure and in line with our mission to make psychedelic treatments more accessible, we are pleased to be able to offer group ketamine-assisted therapy at a lower price point than many other forms of treatment. To learn more about our Group Ketamine-Assisted Therapy programs, book a free informational call with one of our health navigators.
Ketamine is thought to be particularly effective for treatment-resistant conditions.
In the event of an emergency, it’s crucial to seek help as soon as possible. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, also known as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, is available 24/7 to provide support and resources.
You can access this service by dialing 988 or by calling 1-800-273-8255.
In the case of an immediate danger to yourself or others, calling 911 should be your first course of action.
Group Ketamine-Assisted Therapy takes a holistic approach to treatment.
Ketamine treats depression in a different way than most conventional antidepressants. Ketamine targets the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which results in increased activity of glutamate in the brain. Researchers believe this causes creation of new connections between neurons which in turn is believed to allow for new creation of positive thought and behaviour patterns in patients treated with ketamine. This is commonly referred to as neuroplasticity.
Combining the structure of therapy with ketamine and the support of a community helps to enhance the therapeutic process. The group dynamic allows you to feel supported and seen, especially by others who are going through something similar. Listening to the unique experiences of others can provide learnings, decrease feelings of isolation, improve empathy and challenge your perspectives, allowing you to go deeper in your own self reflection.
Our team will take a comprehensive approach to your care, collaborating with other health care providers to provide you with the best outcomes. Here is what you can expect from Group Ketamine-Assisted Therapy:
You'll undergo a thorough intake to ensure the group is the right fit for you and your goals. We often offer Group Ketamine-Assisted Therapy that covers specific themes (like dealing with grief) or for certain conditions (like chronic illnesses).
Once you're welcomed into the group, the therapist will establish the rules of engagement, ensuring a safe, confidential, and respectful environment.
The key to successful ketamine treatment is careful preparation and intention setting. You’ll get to know the group and work through intention setting together. Through this process we build a trusting and comfortable container.
You will undergo a set number of ketamine sessions involving the administration of medicine (either via intramuscular injection, intravenous infusion, oral lozenge, or nasal spray). All group participants will be wearing an eye mask and headphones to encourage introspection. These experiences may be blissful or challenging, mild or intense, depending on where you are in your healing journey. Though everyone is in the same room together, each individual’s experience is unique. Whatever the nature of your experience, you and your peers will have the full support and guidance of our expert team.
Integration helps to ensure the learnings you gained in your psychedelic experience are translated into your daily life and well-being. Your Integration group therapy sessions, led by our therapists, will take place in the days following your ketamine treatment. Sharing with others who’ve gone through a similar experience and witnessing their transformation can help expedite your own growth.
Healing is not linear. Sometimes we transform and sometimes we peel back an important layer, only to reveal deeper work to undertake. Reconnecting can mean pursuing additional treatment, joining one of our ongoing integration groups, or even taking what you have learned and using it to better connect with yourself and the people in your life.
When delivered intravenously or as a lozenge, ketamine is used “off label” meaning that the FDA has not approved its use to treat mental health conditions. Spravato® (esketamine) is approved for treatment resistant depression. Common side effects of ketamine include dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Ketamine raises heart rate and blood pressure, which can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack. People under the influence of ketamine may have difficulty standing up and be confused about their surroundings. Ketamine can cause vivid dreams or hallucinations, which may be intense and terrifying, and a feeling like the mind is separated from the body. Ketamine has been reported to cause apnea and respiratory depression as well as laryngospasm. Like all anesthetics, ketamine prevents users from feeling pain and, if injury occurs, a person may not know it. Frequent use of ketamine may cause bladder problems. Ketamine is also thought to increase the risk of psychosis and seizures. Ketamine is a controlled substance because there is a risk for abuse and physical and psychological dependence. The side effects above are not the only effects you may experience. In addition, there can be various other side effects. Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Refer to the medication's official prescribing information. Always consult a physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your mental health or on any opinions expressed within this article.
