How Ketamine Assisted Therapy May Help Reduce Trauma Symptoms

Many people will go through at least one traumatic experience in life. Sometimes, those experiences can lead to persistent psychological distress, including symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Trauma can be stored in the mind and body for years, and if it isn’t treated and processed effectively, it can take a toll on your overall well-being and your quality of life.

If there’s a silver lining, it’s that there are many options when it comes to treating trauma. However, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution.

Maybe you’ve tried traditional forms of therapy in the past. Or, maybe you’re just looking for a different way to get to the root of the problem.

Ketamine-assisted therapy might be the answer. Let’s take a closer look at how ketamine-assisted therapy helps trauma so you can decide whether it’s right for you.

What Is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) combines the administration of ketamine—a dissociative anesthetic—with structured psychotherapy sessions. 

Unlike traditional treatments, this method leverages ketamine’s unique properties to facilitate deeper therapeutic engagement.

Administered in controlled, low doses under professional supervision, ketamine can induce a state that allows individuals to process traumatic memories with reduced emotional intensity.

The Science Behind Ketamine in Trauma Treatment

Research has shown that ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, when introduced properly, can contribute to regrowth of neurons in the brain.

Read More: “Attachment Trauma: What It Is and How To Heal”

Difficult experiences like depression and trauma can cause disruptions in these neurons, making it difficult for them to communicate with each other properly.

Not only does it improve elasticity and regrowth, but some research has suggested that ketamine can actually boost the production of serotonin and dopamine.

These hormones are largely responsible for mood regulation and how a person responds to stress.

You might even hear them referred to as “happy hormones.” If you’ve ever heard of a runner’s high, it’s the feeling of happiness someone experiences after a good workout caused by a boost of dopamine.

How Ketamine Helps With PTSD

When it comes to trauma, specifically, ketamine can be helpful in a variety of ways. In addition to helping with stress and boosting your mood, it can block N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the brain. Many antidepressants have this same effect.

However, the impact can be greater when you combine it with the repair and restoration of the brain’s neuropathways.

Trauma symptoms often include flashbacks, frightening memories, and negative thoughts.

Because ketamine can help block those thoughts while improving internal communication within the brain, you’re less likely to feel like your trauma defines or controls you.

Trauma often creates strong emotions. Trying to process those on your own is often difficult. Ketamine-assisted therapy can make it easier to regulate those emotions so you can approach your healing process with more stability and less fear.

Benefits of Ketamine Assisted Therapy for Trauma

• Rapid Symptom Relief: Many patients report noticeable improvements in mood and reduction in PTSD symptoms shortly after treatment.​

• Enhanced Therapeutic Engagement: Ketamine can facilitate access to repressed memories and emotions, making psychotherapy sessions more productive.​

• Neurobiological Healing: By promoting neuroplasticity, ketamine helps in restructuring neural pathways disrupted by trauma.​

• Reduced Avoidance Behaviors: Clients often find it easier to confront and process traumatic memories without being overwhelmed.​

Is Ketamine Therapy Right for You?

There are benefits and risks when it comes to any kind of therapy. However, some people might be especially hesitant to try ketamine, and that’s understandable, considering the reputation it’s picked up as a “street drug.”

Read More: “How Trauma Therapy is Helpful fo Trauma”

It’s important to understand that ketamine has been used in the medical field for many years as an anesthetic.

When administered correctly, the biggest benefit you’re likely to see is almost immediate relief from certain symptoms associated with trauma, including reduced stress, better mood, and emotional regulation.

You might experience some lightheadedness or dizziness, but most side effects are minor.

Ketamine is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions or a history of substance misuse should consult with your therapist or medical providers to asses suitability.

Ketamine should only be administered in controlled settings under the guidance of a trained Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapist.

At Denver Metro Counseling, our ketamine-assisted therapists value creating a supportive environment with adequate preparation and integration – crucial components of facilitating trauma-informed care using ketamine.

If you want to learn more about ketamine-assisted therapy, reach out today to set up a free 20-minute consultation with one of our ketamine-assisted therapists today.