What is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)?

KAP combines carefully dosed ketamine administration with psychotherapy before, during and after sessions. Unlike traditional daily medications, ketamine can produce rapid changes in mood and perception that psychotherapy helps integrate into long-term healing. KAP is delivered by qualified medical teams and licensed mental health professionals working together.

Who I work with

I specialize in helping men who feel stuck — those who have tried other treatments without sustained relief, men who carry the weight of trauma, or those struggling with persistent anxiety, depression, or suicidal thinking. I prioritize safety, informed consent, and treatment plans that fit a man’s life and identity.

How KAP typically works

1. Intake & medical screening with a psychiatrist trained in KAP (I provide referrals): medical history, current meds, cardiovascular screening, and a psychiatric assessment.
2. Preparation sessions: psychotherapy to set intentions, establish safety, and prepare for the altered-state experience.
3. Treatment sessions: ketamine is administered in a controlled setting (orally) while being monitored. Typically there is no talking during the ketamine journey. You will be wearing eye-shades and listening to a procured musical playlist through headphones. Each KAP session is scheduled for two hours.
4. Integration: follow-up therapy to explore experiences and insights and translate them into lasting changes. We generally try to meet within a few days of the KAP session.
5. The number of KAP sessions varies, some people experience one session and do not desire further KAP sessions, others have multiple sessions. Generally, clients have five to eight sessions before stopping KAP treatment.

What to expect

While there are no guarantees, many men report rapid reductions in depressive thinking, decreases in rumination, and shifts in how trauma memories are experienced. Experiences vary: some sessions are deeply reflective and calm, others involve dissociation or strong emotions. Integration work after sessions is essential — that’s where gains become solidified.

Common side effects & safety

Ketamine is generally administered at sub-anesthetic doses for psychiatric care but has known effects and risks. Common short-term effects include dissociation, nausea, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, and perceptual changes. Because of these effects, monitoring during sessions is standard. You are asked not to drive after your session, so you will need to arrange transportation after your KAP session.

Who should NOT have KAP (examples)

• People with uncontrolled high blood pressure or significant cardiovascular disease
• Pregnant or breastfeeding people (ketamine is typically avoided)
• Active psychosis or certain uncontrolled psychiatric conditions
• Those with current substance use disorders where misuse risk is high (assessment required)

Informed consent & collaboration

I provide thorough informed consent documents, explain alternatives, and coordinate with medical prescribers. I am a PhD, not an MD and do not prescribe ketamine myself. If you’re considering KAP, your safety is my first priority.

Fees, insurance & logistics

KAP services are paid out-of-pocket. If you have out-of-network insurance benefits I am happy to provide a super-bill for possible reimbursement. Most insurance companies will require a diagnosis if you’re utilizing insurance benefits. I will help you explore options and provide documentation for insurance when appropriate.

Take the next step

If you’re curious about KAP, request a free 15-minute phone consult to discuss your history and goals. We'll review medical suitability and whether KAP is a possible next step.