Why is ketamine most effective when given in tandem with psychotherapy?

Ketamine is a medication that has proven to be a powerful antidepressant that works in two main ways:

1. Symptom improvement: Ketamine makes biochemical changes in the brain that can result in rapid relief from depression, suicidality and anxiety. However, without exploring the root causes of these mental health challenges, the symptoms may return.

2. Exploring and healing root causes: Ketamine increases the neuroplasticity in the brain, which helps the brain make new connections and change old, entrenched thought patterns, especially when used in combination with specialized psychotherapy. When ketamine is experienced in a gentle and nurturing setting, it can calm anxiety and enhance self-compassion. Ketamine tends to reduce the emotional charge related to old wounds and past traumas, which makes it easier to explore and process painful experiences. The window of increased neuroplasticity lasts 1-3 days after each ketamine treatment, so an additional therapy session in that time frame is recommended. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) has the potential to produce long-lasting improvements in mood and trauma-associated disorders.

Ketamine therapy is well-suited for the treatment of several conditions including depression, anxiety and trauma-related disorders. When it is part of a comprehensive substance abuse program, it can also help people who are struggling with alcohol, drug or other addictions. 

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What makes Juniper Psychiatry unique? ​

Many ketamine clinics are run by physicians or other providers (often anesthesiologists or ER doctors) who are well-meaning and excellent in their fields, but are not mental health professionals.  They may not even have a therapist on staff to help people psychologically prepare for the mind-altering experience of ketamine, or take full advantage of the neuroplastic changes that enable exploration and healing of root causes of depression or anxiety.

In contrast, Dr. Lin is a board-certified psychiatrist with decades of experience. When you receive care from Dr. Lin, you first receive a thorough medical, psychiatric diagnostic evaluation. Sometimes there are other treatments that are appropriate to try first or could be prescribed along with ketamine therapy to enhance the benefits.  

Dr. Lin also has training in nutritional psychiatry.  She may provide specific nutritional recommendations or supplements to enhance your health and your response to ketamine.

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Getting started

Williams Lake, Taos Ski Valley

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