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How to Choose a KAP Therapist or Clinic

Choosing the correct therapist or clinic for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a decision of profound importance, with far-reaching implications for mental health and overall well-being. 
 
Ketamine is a powerful psychoactive substance with potent therapeutic potential but also carries risks if not administered correctly. An experienced and qualified therapist ensures that your ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) experience is safe, effective, and yields lasting results.
 
But, with such a range of quality among KAP providers, it can feel like an impossible task to choose the correct one for you.
 
That is why we put together this E-Guide. 
 
We want you to feel empowered to make the best decision for your treatment, and we, as a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy nonprofit, understand the landscape better than most. 
KAP E-Guide

Download e-guide for more

What Should I Look for in a KAP Therapist or Clinic?

There are seven key things that separate the great from the not-so-great KAP providers. 3 of them include:

Credentials and Training:

The first thing to consider is the provider’s credentials and training. Look for psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, counselors, or other mental health professionals who have specialized training and experience in both psychotherapy and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.

Safety Protocols: 

Proper safety protocols are essential for ensuring the physical, psychological, ethical, and legal integrity of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. By implementing comprehensive safety measures, therapists can provide a secure and effective therapeutic experience for their clients.

Individualized Treatment Plans:

Individualized treatment plans are essential for optimizing the effectiveness, safety, and client satisfaction in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. By tailoring treatment to the unique needs and characteristics of each client, therapists can provide personalized and impactful care that supports healing and growth.

To learn the rest of the 7 most important factors to consider when choosing a KAP therapist or clinic, you can download our free E-Guide.

What Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative therapeutic approach that combines the administration of ketamine with psychotherapy sessions. This treatment method leverages the unique properties of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy for various mental health conditions, particularly depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
 
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is the only federally legal form of psychedelic therapy, or psychedelic-assisted therapy, in the United States.
  • Ketamine is typically administered in a clinical setting, either intravenously (IV), intramuscularly (IM), orally, or via nasal spray (esketamine, a derivative of ketamine).
  • The dosage and method of administration are tailored to the patient’s needs and are closely monitored by medical professionals to ensure safety and efficacy (EverydayHealth.com) (Psychedelic Growth ).
  • Following the administration of ketamine, the patient engages in a psychotherapy session. The altered state of consciousness induced by ketamine can facilitate deeper emotional and psychological exploration.

Don't Rush Your Decision... Find the Right KAP Therapist for YOU

Finding the right therapist and facility is essential for ensuring a positive and effective ketamine-assisted psychotherapy experience.

It requires careful consideration of factors such as therapeutic approach, communication style, cultural competence, and specialized expertise to match individuals with a therapist who can best meet their unique needs and support them on their healing journey.

The therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist is a critical factor in the success of any form of psychotherapy, including KAP. Building trust and rapport with the therapist facilitates open communication, honesty, and collaboration in the therapeutic process.

When clients feel understood, respected, and valued by their therapist, they are more likely to engage actively in therapy and experience meaningful progress.