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Ketamine is an anesthesia medication that has been used safely in the operating room for over 50 years. About 5-10 years ago, doctors discovered that it’s effective at relieving symptoms of depression, anxiety and PTSD. It rapidly reduces suicidal thoughts.
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Ketamine has been around since it was first discovered in 1962 and was approved for use in the United States since 1970. We have known the benefits of Ketamine for a long time.
There is a wide base of research and statistics to support the use of Ketamine as an effective therapy. However, Ketamine Therapy is not widely advertised or promoted to the public by medical professionals despite its continued use and positive effects. You may have many questions about what it is and how effective it is. We are here to answer all of your questions and provide a facility dedicated to improving your mental and physical well-being.
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Patients with depression (especially with suicidal features) and trauma disorders benefit the most. Additionally, patients with existential or end-of-life anxiety do particularly well.
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In a word, yes, ketamine is safe. When given in a supervised setting by a medical professional, research has proven it can be safely administered for long-term use. Unlike other medications, Ketamine does not have to be discontinued after a certain period of time. Studies have continued to show its effectiveness as an acute treatment method. Ketamine has gained special notoriety in its ability to subside suicidal thoughts in patients after just one treatment session.
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There are a number of proven benefits of Ketamine when compared to other types of medications.
One of the most beneficial is its rapid onset. You can expect to feel the positive effects of Ketamine within 24 hours after receiving a treatment. Some patients even experience its effects in as little as two hours. Other medications can take up to six weeks or longer before any noticeable changes occur, and even then, you may experience side effects or have to switch to another medication.Studies have also shown that Ketamine has anti-inflammatory effects at critical areas of the body.
There is a large body of research that shows the benefit of ketamine for pain as well.
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Ketamine therapy is effective for most patients, but it requires preparation and introspection for lasting results. Combining it with other therapies, such as traditional talk therapy and psychotherapy or more holistic therapies such as meditation, or yoga, enhances success. If you’ve struggled with poorly-treated trauma, depression, or pain and found little relief from medications, we highly recommend ketamine therapy. Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re committed to providing a real alternative that helps you enjoy life again. Building lasting relationships with our patients is just as important as the treatments we offer.
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Ketamine is well-tolerated by most patients. We do not recommend ketamine for patients with schizophrenia or severe bipolar.
We do not recommend ketamine for patients who are in an active addiction. Ketamine may be an effective adjunct to addiction therapy, but patients must be a part of a structured addiction program.Ketamine is contraindicated in patients with heart failure or recent coronary re-vascularization (ex heart stents).
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Ketamine works on the NMDA receptors of the brain. It induces anti-depressive hormones and chemicals in the brain.
At Satori, our philosophy is that the transcendent experience of ketamine can be extraordinarily therapeutic. Patients often have a sensation of unity with the universe. The sense of hope for a better future is profound. Patients often rank it as one of the top 5 most meaningful, spiritual experiences of their lives.
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When you come into our clinic for a Ketamine Infusion, you will be seated in a reclining chair. We suggest wearing comfortable clothing you would normally wear to lounge in at home.
Our treatments are scheduled for 90 minutes. Once the treatment is complete, most patients are able to leave within a half hour of a completed session. Again, this depends on each individual and the severity of their illness.You are not allowed to drive after your treatments, as you will be unsafe to drive on your own.
Key to the success of ketamine therapy is the dissociative, mystical or even spiritual state that is induced. For many people it is the first time that they are separated from the intrusive, ruminative thoughts that push them into therapy in the first place. Because the ketamine state is often vulnerable and disorienting, a skilled provider must be present at all times for the initial sessions in order to hold space for patients in need. Our philosophy is not to leave you alone in a room until you feel comfortable enough to guide your own sessions. We want to connect with you and guide you through your healing journey.
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A typical ketamine session lasts 90 minutes. You will need a chaperone or driver to drive you home after your session and stay with you for about an hour.
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Most treatments are delivered intravenously in our clinic with a skilled medical provider at your side the entire time. We also offer intramuscular injections for those who prefer. We offer prescriptions for ketamine assisted psychotherapy using lozenges, where patients can take an oral dose in a therapist’s office once they have an established dose and treatment course.
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The amount of time Ketamine lasts after a session is unique to each individual and depends on your physical characteristics. Its effects also depend on what symptom or disorder you are trying to dissipate. We discuss this in great detail during your consultation.
Many patients report that the relief they experience from ketamine therapy initially lasts for a few days after their first sessions. Over time, the interval between their sessions can potentially extend to several months. Even those who follow a monthly maintenance plan often report that the significant improvement in their mood and overall well-being makes the regular treatments well worth it. This long-lasting relief is a key benefit of ketamine therapy, offering patients sustained improvements in their mental health and quality of life.
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The number of infusions you need will be determined during your consultation and adjusted when monitoring your results. The biggest factors in determining the amount of treatments you will need are the severity of your symptoms, disorders and medical history. We typically recommend a regimen of 6 sessions: the first 3 completed within 7-10 days of each other, and the next 3 spread over 5-7 weeks.
Maintenance sessions are encouraged at the patient’s choosing. Some patients prefer monthly maintenance sessions, while some may find themselves only needing maintenance sessions every 3-6 months.
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A current history of the medications you are taking must be discussed during your consultation. Although the majority of medications are safe to continue without interfering with treatment, there are some you cannot take prior to or following a session.
Conventional SSRIs are safe to continue.
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Another core tenet of the Satori philosophy is that you will never be alone through your treatments. Because of the vulnerable nature of engaging with the deepest parts of your psyche, we always have a compassionate, skilled professional in the room with you during your initial sessions. For patients who would like more privacy we offer self-guided options after your 3rd supervised session.
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The benefits of ketamine are sustained when patients develop a long-term relationship with a therapist. While not a requirement, we encourage everyone to see a therapist regularly throughout the duration of ketamine therapy.
Ketamine relaxes ego defenses and is a catalyst for psychotherapy.The majority of patients describe the experience to be beautiful, but difficult emotions can also be encountered during the ketamine treatment. Whether you prefer to process your sessions with our experienced staff or a traditional therapist, the benefits are immense and undeniable.
Since the ketamine experience can be unique and often times indescribable, we offer group integration sessions for patients to build camaraderie and support.
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Insurance companies do not cover the cost of IV ketamine therapy.
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Cost of treatment is $400 for the first infusion and $375 for subsequent treatments.
The most common regimen for patients is 6 sessions over 8-10 weeks with maintenance or boosters when needed. Be sure to ask about our unique maintenance options.We offer a variety of pre-paid discount packages, so be sure to ask about the options that might work best for you.