Advanced Depression Therapy in Phoenix

Talk Therapy + Ketamine for Depression

Depression therapy looks a little different at DayTryp. We’re on a mission to introduce Phoenix to advanced treatments for depression and make them as accessible as possible to prospective patients.  

The combination of talk therapy and ketamine is growing as an effective and popular alternative to antidepressants and talk therapy alone.

A 2019 study of the Efficacy of Ketamine Therapy in the Treatment of Depression concluded:

“Ketamine has a robust and rapid effect on depression, which was seen immediately after the administration of ketamine and sustained at the end of 1 month.”

– National Library of Medicine (2019)

Ketamine-assisted therapy is an innovative approach to treating depression that has gained attention in recent years. It involves using ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic and NMDA receptor antagonist, in combination with psychotherapy to help individuals manage and alleviate symptoms of depression, especially in cases of treatment-resistant depression.

Here’s an overview of ketamine-assisted therapy for depression:

1. Ketamine Administration: Ketamine is administered under medical supervision, usually through intravenous (IV) infusion, intramuscular injection, or intranasal spray. The method of administration and dosing can vary depending on the provider and the individual’s needs. At DayTryp, we administer ketamine through intramuscular (IM) injection.  

2. Psychotherapy: Ketamine-assisted therapy is not just about the medication; it involves community and connection through an expert therapeutic component. Individuals typically undergo psychotherapy sessions during or shortly after ketamine administration. Common therapeutic approaches used in combination with ketamine include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based therapy, and psychodynamic therapy.

3. Rapid Relief: One of the significant advantages of ketamine is its potential to provide rapid relief from depression symptoms. Some individuals may experience improvements in mood, motivation, and overall well-being within hours or days of a ketamine treatment.

4. Duration and Maintenance: The effects of a single ketamine treatment are often temporary, lasting for a few days to a couple of weeks. Therefore, individuals usually require multiple sessions over time to maintain the therapeutic benefits.

5. Safety and Side Effects: Ketamine is generally considered safe when administered by a qualified healthcare provider. However, it may cause side effects such as dissociation, changes in perception, and increased blood pressure. These side effects are closely monitored during treatment sessions.

6. Treatment-Resistant Depression: Ketamine-assisted therapy is often considered for individuals who have not responded well to traditional antidepressant medications or psychotherapy alone. It can be a promising option for those with treatment-resistant depression.

7. Cost and Insurance: The cost of ketamine-assisted therapy can vary, and it is typically not covered by insurance for depression treatment. Individuals should inquire about the cost and payment options with the treatment provider. We offer a range of different ketamine treatment packages at varying costs to suit every budget. 

8. Research and Clinical Guidelines: Ketamine-assisted therapy is an area of ongoing research, and the field is evolving. Ketamine is being explored as a treatment for more indications including anxiety, eating disorders and suicidality. 

How Ketamine Works in the Brain 

A fascinating ketamine research study from Dec. 2022 investigated the mechanism through which ketamine is able to change neuronal activity in the brain. 

This  ketamine-induced activity switch in key brain regions tied to depression may impact our understanding of ketamine’s treatment effects. –  Joseph Cichon, MD, PhD

Read more about this study and how ketamine works on Nature.com.

The First Step is a Free Consultation

If you are interested in ketamine-assisted therapy for depression, it’s essential to consult with a qualified mental health professional at DayTryp who specializes in this approach exclusively. Our team will evaluate your specific needs, discuss the potential benefits, risks, and expected outcomes, and create an individualized treatment plan that may include ketamine-assisted therapy as part of a broader approach to managing your depression. Book a free consultation here.