How ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Works
Why KAP Works
Somatic Embodiment and Mindfulness Approaches
KAP the the Nervous System
KAP leverages the unique properties of ketamine to enhance the therapeutic process. Ketamine's ability to disrupt fear memory reconsolidation and enhance neuroplasticity makes it particularly effective for treating conditions like complex PTSD, burnout, compassion fatigue, and substance use disorders. By facilitating a range of non-ordinary states of consciousness, ketamine helps patients access deep-seated emotions and memories, which can be processed and integrated through psychotherapy. This approach promotes healing by addressing both cognitive and somatic aspects of trauma.
KAP the the Nervous System
Somatic Embodiment and Mindfulness Approaches
KAP the the Nervous System
Ketamine acts primarily as an NMDA receptor antagonist, which influences the glutamate system. Glutamate is a neurotransmitter involved in excitatory signaling in the brain. By modulating glutamate, ketamine helps balance excitatory and inhibitory signals, reducing hyperarousal and promoting a state of calm. Ketamine also promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. This can help break the maladaptive neural circuits associated with trauma and stress, fostering new, healthier patterns of thought and behavior. Chronic stress and trauma can lead to neuroinflammation. Ketamine has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce this inflammation, contributing to the overall calming effect on the nervous system.
Somatic Embodiment and Mindfulness Approaches
Somatic Embodiment and Mindfulness Approaches
Somatic Embodiment and Mindfulness Approaches
Ketamine’s effects can heighten body awareness, making somatic embodiment practices like breathwork and movement exercises more effective. These practices help clients stay grounded and connected to their bodies, fostering a sense of safety and presence. Guided physical exercises during and after ketamine sessions can help release stored tension and trauma from the body, further settling the nervous system. Mindfulness practices help clients stay present and aware during and after ketamine sessions, enhancing their ability to process and integrate their experiences. This presence can counteract hyperarousal and support nervous system regulation.