Ketamine-assisted therapy in Denver, CO

Yes, you can continue taking most medications like antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) while undergoing ketamine-assisted therapy. They don’t interact negatively with each other.

During your medical evaluation, you’ll review all your medications and supplements and receive a personalized plan for any contraindications.

Here comes the science lesson.

Ketamine works by blocking NMDA ((N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors in the brain, increasing the availability of glutamate, which promotes neuroplasticity (your brain’s ability to change and adapt). By inhibiting these receptors, ketamine increases the availability of glutamate, which then stimulates the growth of new neural connections and synapses, which can lead to rapid improvements in mood, cognitive function and shift patterns (eg. depression and anxiety).

Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to work, research has shown that ketamine offers rapid relief, making it particularly valuable for treatment-resistant depression, and other difficult-to-overcome mental health disorders.

Ketamine is considered a dissociative anesthetic but can produce psychedelic effects at certain doses, which opens up opportunities for more spiritual effects and transformations.

Research links:
Krystal, J. H., Sanacora, G., Duman, R. S. (2013). Rapid-acting glutamatergic antidepressants: the path to ketamine and beyond. Biological Psychiatry, 73(12), 1133-1141.
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Berman, R. M., Cappiello, A., Anand, A., et al. (2000). Antidepressant effects of ketamine in depressed patients. Biological Psychiatry, 47(4), 351-354.

During the intake we will estimate a number and frequency of KAP sessions specific to your treatment needs.

Typically a KAP program will include between 6-10 sessions, with integration sessions in between. 

The frequency of KAP sessions can be anywhere from once per week to every other week, depending on your needs. 

KAP involves an intake and preparation process, followed by alternating ketamine and integration sessions. 

During the intake we will determine an estimated number of sessions (generally between 6-10), as well as the location for the sessions (in-home or virtual). 

Here’s the breakdown of costs:

• KAP Intake: $185.
• ​KAP Preparation: $150/session (minimum of 2 sessions recommended, with more available if needed).
• KAP Integration: $150/session. (minimum of 1 x integration session per KAP session required)
• ​KAP Sessions (virtual or in-office): $300-$450/session
  2-3 hours are reserved for sessions, with flexibility to adjust the time as needed. The first session is typically 3 hours, with the option to reduce the time for subsequent sessions.
  Virtual sessions require a chaperone to be present at your location (but not necessarily in the same room). Their role is minimal, acting as a contact point if needed. In-office sessions require you to have a ride to and from as you will not be able to drive afterward.
• KAP In-Home Option: +$50/session. Sessions are held in person at your home. This is an ideal option if you don’t have a chaperone available for your KAP session. There is a $50 fee for in-home services in addition to the typical KAP Session fee listed above.

Total cost estimates for the full KAP program:

• Virtual or In-Office Sessions: $3,335 – $5,135 (for 6-10 sessions)
• In-Home Sessions: +$300-$500 add-on (for 6-10 sessions)

These estimates cover the full process, from intake and preparation through integration and KAP sessions. Costs may vary based on the number of sessions required.

Some portions of ketamine-assisted therapy for qualified mental health disorders may be covered under insurance. I take the following insurance: Cigna, Aetna, United, Medicaid & BCBS/Carelon. 

Before we move forward with ketamine-assisted therapy, you’ll undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. 

KAP is often suitable for those dealing with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or related conditions that haven’t responded to conventional treatments.

Factors such as overall physical health, medical history, and any contraindications (e.g., substance abuse or certain medical conditions) will be assessed prior to engaging in ketamine therapy. Some of these contraindications include (but are not limited to):

• Manic Bipolar
• Schizophrenia/Psychosis
• Uncontrolled hypertension or glaucoma
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Some personality disorders/traits

​Also, having a supportive environment and a willingness to engage in the therapeutic process are important considerations for maximizing the benefits of ketamine therapy.

I offer both in-person and virtual KAP sessions.

• In-person sessions: Held at my office space in Lafayette, CO or at your home in special circumstances. In-home services incur additional fees. 

• Virtual sessions: You’ll need a “chaperone” present to ensure your safety.A chaperone is someone I can contact if needed during your session if anything comes up. Their role is generally minimal and they do not have to be in the same room as you. 

First sessions typically last 3 hours, with following sessions reserved for 2-3 hours based on your needs.