The Importance of Therapy in Ketamine Treatment for Mental Health
- HIGHER DIMENSIONS OF HEALING, LLC
- Jan 4
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 8
Ketamine treatment is gaining recognition for its potential to alleviate symptoms of mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. However, the importance of incorporating therapy alongside ketamine treatment cannot be overstated.
Christine Salvo, LMFT, and owner of Higher Dimensions of Healing, LLC, emphasizes the value of a therapeutic presence in ketamine treatment. "As a long-time mental health therapist, I've witnessed the profound impact ketamine can have in shifting perspectives and offering relief from suicidal thoughts, depression, and feelings of stagnation," says Salvo.
The Role of the Therapist in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Traditional ketamine clinics, often run by medical professionals, can sometimes adopt a clinical approach. Patients might find themselves in a room with music and ambient lighting, left to their own thoughts without guidance or therapeutic support to process the experience.
Higher Dimensions of Healing, LLC takes a different approach, integrating therapy into each ketamine session. This provides individuals with the support they need to navigate complex emotions and traumatic experiences that may surface during treatment. Salvo explains, "Throughout history, the use of psychedelics in tribal and group settings has been guided by shamans or healers. This highlights the necessity of having a trained and experienced professional to lead individuals through these intense experiences, helping them process emotions, overcome traumas, and feel safe while exploring their inner landscape."
The Benefits of Group Therapy in Ketamine Treatment
Higher Dimensions of Healing, LLC also recognizes the importance of social interaction in the healing process. "We are social beings who thrive on connection. For individuals struggling with depression and isolation, further isolation during treatment may not be as beneficial as engaging with others who share similar experiences," says Salvo. Group settings offer a supportive environment where individuals can connect, reflect, and process their experiences together.
Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: A Guided Journey
The combination of ketamine and therapy provides a comprehensive approach to mental health treatment. While ketamine can offer a unique window into the mind, therapy provides the tools and support needed to integrate insights, navigate challenges, and create lasting change. If you're considering ketamine treatment, it's essential to seek a provider who incorporates therapy into their approach. A skilled therapist can help you make the most of your ketamine experience, ensuring a safe and transformative journey towards healing and well-being.
Tell us what you think about ketamine treatments with and without counseling incorporated into the session.
What do you think is most beneficial? What do you think is the most effective? And what would you prefer?
So if I have “depression” and the antidepressant pharmaceuticals aren’t working, is ketamine the right step for me? Is it the next thing I should try? Sounds like I should talk to my doctor about it? I’m wondering what The Psychedelic Experience is like. I like that this clinic has a guide for the experience, because I feel like I probably will need that because I don’t have any experience using psychedelic drugs. But I definitely like the idea of getting unstuck and not depressed anymore.
The group therapy ketamine sessions is definitely different and interesting... makes sense though if you think about it, as humans are naturally social people... can't wait to see how it goes!