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FAQ

  • Ketamine: From Battlefield Anesthesia to Hope for Mental Health

    Ketamine's journey from a groundbreaking anesthetic to a potential treatment for mental health conditions is a testament to scientific curiosity and the brain's complexity.

    Origins in Anesthesia:

    • Ketamine first gained prominence during the Vietnam War for its remarkable anesthetic properties, enabling safer and more effective medical care in challenging battlefield conditions.

    • It works by acting as an NMDA receptor antagonist, influencing the activity of glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in various brain functions.

    • At higher doses, ketamine induces a state of deep sedation, making it invaluable for surgical procedures and emergency medical care.

    Unexpected Discovery in Depression:

    • In the early 1990s, researchers at Yale University made a serendipitous observation while studying ketamine's sedative effects.

    • They noticed that some volunteers experiencing depression reported a significant improvement in their mood after receiving ketamine.

    • This unexpected finding ignited a wave of research into ketamine's potential antidepressant properties.

    Expanding Research Landscape:

    • Since then, thousands of studies have explored ketamine's effects on various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal ideation.

    • These studies have provided valuable insights into ketamine's mechanisms of action and its potential to offer rapid and sustained relief for individuals struggling with mental health challenges.

    Regulatory Recognition:

    • The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), in its official factsheet on ketamine, acknowledges its established role as an anesthetic and its growing use in mental health treatment.

    • The DEA emphasizes the importance of responsible use and controlled administration of ketamine to ensure patient safety and prevent misuse.

    Ongoing Exploration:

    • Research continues to delve deeper into ketamine's therapeutic potential, exploring its long-term effects, optimal dosing strategies, and potential applications for a wider range of mental health conditions.

    We remain dedicated to staying informed about the latest advancements in ketamine research and providing you with evidence-based care that prioritizes your safety and well-being.

  • Ketamine and Neuroplasticity: A Glimpse into the Brain's Remarkable Capacity for Change

    While the exact mechanisms of ketamine's action in the brain are still being explored, research highlights its potential to promote neuroplasticity, the brain's inherent ability to adapt and reorganize. This dynamic process is essential for healthy brain function and may play a crucial role in ketamine's therapeutic effects.

    The Brain's Dynamic Landscape:

    • Imagine the brain as a vast and intricate network of billions of neurons, constantly communicating with each other through electrical and chemical signals.

    • These signals travel along pathways, much like cars on a complex highway system, carrying messages that shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

    • Our brains are not static; they possess the remarkable capacity to change and adapt in response to experiences, learning, and even challenges like depression.

    Neuroplasticity: The Key to Adaptation:

    • Neuroplasticity refers to the brain's ability to modify its structure and function throughout life.

    • This involves forming new neural connections, strengthening existing ones, and even eliminating pathways that are no longer needed.

    • This dynamic process allows the brain to learn, adapt to new situations, and recover from injuries.

    Ketamine's Potential Role in Promoting Neuroplasticity:

    • Research suggests that ketamine may enhance neuroplasticity by:

      • Increasing the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth 1 and survival of neurons.  

        1. hope-therapy-center.com

        hope-therapy-center.com

      • Stimulating the formation of new synapses, the connections between neurons.

      • Promoting the growth of dendritic spines, small protrusions on neurons that receive signals from other neurons.

    • These effects may contribute to ketamine's ability to rapidly alleviate depressive symptoms and potentially promote long-lasting changes in brain function.

    Yale Medicine's Perspective:

    • Experts at Yale Medicine, a leading institution in ketamine research, emphasize the importance of neuroplasticity in understanding ketamine's therapeutic effects.

    • They highlight that ketamine's ability to promote the growth and strengthening of neural connections may be crucial in reversing the detrimental effects of depression on the brain.

    The Ongoing Exploration:

    • Research continues to shed light on the complex interplay between ketamine and neuroplasticity.

    • Understanding these mechanisms may pave the way for developing even more effective treatments for depression and other mental health conditions.

    We are committed to staying at the forefront of ketamine research and providing you with the most up-to-date information about its potential benefits.

  • Ketamine Administration: Understanding Your Options

    Ketamine can be administered in various ways, each with its own benefits. We'll work with you to determine the most suitable method for your needs.

    1. Intravenous (IV) Infusion ("Ketalar"):

    • How it Works: Ketamine is delivered directly into your bloodstream through an IV line.

    • Benefits:

      • Precise control over dosage for optimal safety and effectiveness.

      • Rapid onset of effects, typically within minutes.

      • Well-established and extensively studied method.

    • Treatment Time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours.

    2. Intramuscular (IM) Injection:

    • How it Works: Ketamine is injected into a muscle, usually in the arm or leg.

    • Benefits:

      • Relatively quick and easy administration.

      • Suitable for individuals who may not tolerate IV insertion.

    • Treatment Time: Similar to IV infusion, around 1-1.5 hours.

    3. Intranasal Spray ("Spravato"):

    • How it Works: A pre-measured dose of esketamine (a form of ketamine) is administered as a nasal spray.

    • Benefits:

      • Non-invasive and convenient.

      • Self-administered under supervision.

    • Treatment Time: Approximately 2 hours, including observation time.

    4. Lozenges (Troches):

    • How it Works: Lozenges containing ketamine are dissolved in the mouth, allowing for absorption through the oral mucosa.

    • Benefits:

      • Convenient and potentially suitable for at-home use under specific circumstances.

      • May offer a more gradual onset of effects compared to IV or IM.

    • Treatment Time: Varies depending on absorption rate.

    Choosing the Right Method:

    • The most appropriate method for you will depend on factors such as your individual needs, medical history, and response to treatment.

    • We will discuss the benefits and considerations of each option with you to help you make an informed decision.

    Important Note:

    • Regardless of the administration method, your safety and comfort are our top priorities.

    • We will closely monitor your vital signs and well-being throughout your treatment.

  • How Often Will I Need Ketamine Treatment? Understanding Your Personalized Plan

    The frequency of your ketamine treatments will be tailored to your individual needs and response, as well as the type of ketamine therapy you receive (IV, IM, or intranasal Spravato). Your treatment journey will generally be divided into two phases: a stabilization phase and a maintenance phase.

    IV and IM Ketamine Therapy:

    • Stabilization Phase (Initial 2-3 Weeks):

      • This initial phase is designed to rapidly improve your symptoms and determine if ketamine is an effective treatment option for you.

      • During this period, you'll typically receive 4-6 treatments.

    • Maintenance Phase (Ongoing Support):

      • The goal of this phase is to sustain the positive results you experienced during the stabilization phase.

      • "Booster" treatments will be administered to maintain your progress.

      • The frequency of these boosters is highly individualized.

        • Some individuals may only require a booster every 6-12 months.

        • Others may benefit from boosters every 1-2 weeks.

        • On average, many individuals find that a booster every 3-6 weeks is optimal.

      • We will work closely with you to create a personalized schedule that best supports your well-being.

    Spravato (Intranasal Ketamine) Therapy:

    • Stabilization Phase (Initial Treatment):

      • The objective is to improve symptoms and assess the effectiveness of Spravato for you.

      • First Month: treatments are twice a week.

      • Second Month: treatments are once a week.

    • Maintenance Phase (Sustaining Progress):

      • This phase aims to maintain the positive effects achieved during the stabilization period.

      • Treatments are typically administered once every 1-2 weeks, depending on your individual response.

    Key Considerations:

    • We understand that everyone's response to ketamine therapy is unique.

    • We are committed to working with you to develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and ensures your continued well-being.

    • We will monitor your progress closely and adjust treatment frequency as needed.

    • The frequency of IM shots will follow the same guidelines as IV infusion.

  • The overall cost of treatment will depend on how frequently you require treatment and whether or not your insurance will cover it. Although no insurance companies cover IV or IM ketamine at this time, many companies do cover Spravato (intranasal ketamine). The amount that your insurance covers will depend on the insurance company and your individual plan. When you come in for your initial consultation, we will discuss the different options with you and do our best to get your treatments covered by insurance whenever possible.

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    Why is ketamine treatment so expensive?
    Unlike oral medications that you can take at home, ketamine must be administered inside a medical clinic or hospital. Due to this, our cost goes up and, ultimately, your cost goes up as well. We do try to make it as cost effective as possible, however.

     

    Do you offer any discounts?
    The average cost per IV treatment nationwide is $400-$2,000. We have done our best to keep our price as affordable as possible. We offer discount pricing for when you are receiving multiple treatments. We have a reduced tiered pricing scale so that each treatment you do, the price is reduced to make it affordable for ongoing treatments.

     

    We do offer discounts after initial package sessions have been administered. Ask for discount pricing rates, available after initial package sessions completed. 

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    Do you have any financing options available?
    We do! We understand that financing medical treatments can be difficult. For that reason, we offer CareCredit. It is a great way to finance medical treatments and the application process is quick and easy!

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    *We have partnered with CareCredit to offer a 6 month or 12 month zero percent financing option - additional merchant fees apply to select these options.


    Apply for CareCredit here: https://www.carecredit.com/apply/

  • We accept the following insurance plans: 

     

    • Aetna

    • Medicare

    • VA Veterans - We are proud to serve our Nation's Veterans through Community Care Referral

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    Insurances We Will Be Accepting Soon;

    Medicaid, BCBS, United Health Care, Sierra Health & Life, Hometown Health, Prominence, and University of Utah

  • Understanding Ketamine's Effects: A Guide to Your Comfort

    We understand that considering any new treatment brings questions about potential side effects. It's reassuring to know that ketamine, when administered in controlled settings, generally has a well-tolerated side effect profile, often considered minimal compared to traditional antidepressants.

    Short-Term Effects:

    Like any medication, ketamine can produce temporary side effects. These effects are typically mild and subside shortly after treatment. Based on research and clinical experience, including studies conducted at institutions like Yale and Johns Hopkins, the most commonly reported short-term effects include:

    • Drowsiness: A feeling of relaxation or sleepiness.

    • Dissociative Sensations: A sense of floating or detachment. Johns Hopkins researchers have explored this dissociative aspect in their studies on ketamine's effects on the brain.

    • Enhanced Sensory Perception: Increased sensitivity to sounds or more vivid colors.

    • Visual Changes: Blurred vision.

    • Mild Nausea: This can be easily managed with medication.

    • Transient Cardiovascular Changes: A slight increase in blood pressure or heart rate.

    • Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness.

    • Transient Sadness: some patients report a feeling of somberness.

    These effects are temporary and typically resolve within a short period following the treatment. If you experience nausea, please inform our team, and we will provide prompt treatment with anti-nausea medication. If you're prone to nausea, we can administer preventative medication before your treatment.

    Cardiovascular Considerations:

    • While a mild increase in blood pressure or heart rate can occur, it is generally transient and not a cause for concern. We closely monitor your vital signs during treatment.

    Long-Term Effects:

    • Extensive research, including studies at Yale and Johns Hopkins, suggests that short-duration, low-dose ketamine therapy is not associated with significant long-term side effects. It is important to remember that ketamine infusions for depression are different than recreational high dose ketamine use.

    • It is important to discuss any concerns with your provider.

    Important Note:

    • While research is ongoing, the current body of evidence supports the safety of ketamine therapy when administered in a controlled clinical environment.

    We are committed to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout your treatment. Please do not hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with our team.

  • We understand the journey with depression is challenging, and we're here to offer support and hope. Here's how we strive to provide exceptional care:

    • Deeply Rooted Experience:

      • We bring years of experience in therapeutic settings, witnessing the potential for positive change.

      • Our extensive work with ketamine therapy provides a profound understanding of its use in mental health care.

      • We understand the nuances of ketamine and how it can assist with depression.

    • Prepared for Your Safety:

      • While ketamine is generally safe, we prioritize your well-being with comprehensive preparedness.

      • Our team includes physician assistants and licensed therapists, providing valuable healthcare expertise.

      • This ensures that if any rare adverse reaction were to occur, we are ready to respond.

    • Integrated Mental Health Care:

      • Your treatment includes a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional.

      • We offer in-house, board-certified mental health expertise for those without an existing provider.

      • These consultations are essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring your progress with ketamine.

      • We understand the complexities of depression and the role ketamine can play in treatment.

    • Heartfelt Compassion:

      • We recognize the profound impact depression has on your life and relationships.

      • We are dedicated to treating you with genuine warmth, respect, and understanding.

      • Your well-being is our priority, and we're committed to supporting you on your path to healing.

      • We are here to walk with you on your journey.

  • Your Path to Healing with Ketamine: A Step-by-Step Guide

    We understand that exploring ketamine treatment can feel overwhelming. We're here to guide you through each step with care and clarity.

    1. Determining Your Eligibility:

    • Qualifying Diagnoses: Ketamine therapy is considered for individuals diagnosed with:

      • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

      • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

      • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

      • Anxiety in combination with MDD

      • Other... talk to your medical provider

    • Prior Treatment:​

      • For Spravato (nasal ketamine), most insurance providers require at least two prior antidepressant trials. 

      • If you have tried other therapies or counseling without relief, ketamine may be an option.

    • Diagnosis Support: If you need assistance with diagnosis, we offer therapy, counseling, and referrals to our partnered psychiatrist network.

    2. Consulting with Your Mental Health Provider:

    • If you have a current mental health provider who prescribes medication (psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, or physician assistant), please discuss ketamine with them.

    • Their opinion is vital, as they oversee your overall mental health care. We respect their professional judgment.

    • If they approve of ketamine treatment, ask them to send us a referral using our provided referral form.

    • If you do not have a mental health provider, and you meet the criteria in step one, contact us, and we can schedule an appointment with one of our psychiatrists. This appointment can be in person or virtual.

    3. Initial Consultation:

    • Once we receive your referral or approval from your medical provider or psychiatrist, we'll schedule an initial consultation

    • We'll explain ketamine treatment, what to expect, and answer all your questions to ensure you feel comfortable.

    4. Insurance and Medication (Spravato Only):

    • If you're using Spravato and insurance, we'll submit a prior authorization request.

    • This process typically takes about one week.

    • Once approved, the medication is sent from a specialty pharmacy, which usually takes another week.

    • IV or IM ketamine treatments bypass this step.

    5. Scheduling Your Treatments:

    • We'll work with you to find a convenient schedule.

    • For the initial phase (typically twice weekly), we recommend spacing treatments evenly (e.g., Monday and Friday).

    • Once transitioning to once a week treatments, we suggest establishing a set day and time.

    6. Arranging Transportation:

    • Ketamine is a sedative, so you'll need a ride home.

    • Arrange for a friend, family member, or use a ride-sharing service.

    7. Beginning Your Treatment:

    • Come with an open mind and allow the treatment to guide you.

    • We're here to support you throughout your healing journey.

    We're Here to Help:

    We look forward to supporting you.

GETTING STARTED

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Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)

Using Ketamine Lozenges 

(aka Ketamine Troches)

 

Here's a step-by-step guide to begin your ketamine lozenge prescription and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) journey at Higher Dimensions of Healing (HDH):

 

Step 1: Contact Us, Fill Out New Patient Intake Packet and Schedule  Initial Consultation.
 

  • Fill out the contact section on our website: CLICK HERE

  • An HDH staff member will reach out to you to begin your patient intake process and schedule a consultation with our medical provider.

  • During your consultation, we will assess your suitability for ketamine therapy and discuss your mental health goals.

 

Step 2: Prescription and Medication

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  • E-script from HDH:

    • Following your consultation, if deemed appropriate, an electronic prescription (e-script) for ketamine lozenges to will be sent to pharmacy.

    • You will contact pharmacy directly for account set-up, payment and mailing instruction.

  • Your medication will be mailed to you

    • While you wait for medication to arrive via mail

    • Schedule your therapy session with Christine Salvo

 

Step 3: Schedule Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Sessions

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  • Your KAP sessions will be facilitated by Christine Salvo, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with extensive experience. 

 

FILL OUT FORM TO GET STARTED - CLICK HERE

CLINIC NUMBER (775) 347-9343

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