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Methods to Receive Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine: Sprays, IVs, Injections, and Lozenges.

August 15, 2023

When it comes to finally feeling better Ketamine offers promise to those who have failed to find relief from SSRIs. More options for administering this medication now exist. Here's an overview of the most common.

Ketamine is a treatment that is offering many patients faster relief for mood  and chronic stress disorders particularly treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and PTSD. For those that have not responded well, or at all, to other treatments like SSRIs, the medication offers hope for healing that many patients once felt was impossible.

 

 

Unlike a daily pill, Ketamine is offered in sessions over the course of a series. Ketamine sessions should be offered in controlled settings and supervised by medical professionals. 

 

 

 

Intravenous (IV) Infusion: This is one of most common and studied method of ketamine administration. An infusion of ketamine is delivered directly into a patient’s bloodstream through a vein. The dosage and duration of the infusion are controlled to achieve therapeutic effects. IV ketamine treatment often involves a series of sessions over several weeks, and requires medical supervision.

 

 

Intramuscular (IM) Injection: In this method, ketamine is injected into a muscle, and dosage is tailored to the patient. Intramuscular injections are considered an alternative to IV infusions, especially when IV access is challenging.  Like IV injection the dosage is carefully controlled based on body composition, past tolerance to the medication, and other factors your psychiatrist will discuss with you in your consultation and follow-ups. 

 

 

Nasal Spray (Spravato®): Esketamine, a derivative of ketamine, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. Patients self-administer the nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Nasal spray offers a more convenient option especially for those who do not want IVs or injections.

 

 

Sublingual or Buccal:  Ketamine can also be administered by placing a tablet or lozenge under the tongue or against the cheek. The medication is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. It’s important with this administration of Ketamine to follow the clinicians instructions for receiving the medication to ensure the best possible absorption and results.

 

 

Effectiveness of the different methods can vary based on the specific condition being treated, individual patient responses, and factors such as dosage and treatment protocol. The choice of method should be made in consultation with a qualified healthcare professional based on the patient’s individual circumstances and medical history.

 

 

At Heading clinics in Austin and in Dallas-Forth Worth the majority of patients receive ketamine through Spravato® nasal spray, or intramuscular injection.  Regardless of method all patients at Heading receive treatment with direct medical supervision.  Everyone responds to medications differently, and given the dissociative affects of Ketamine it can be safest to have clinicians who specialize in psychiatric care on hand to give guidance, answer questions, and offer support for patients going through their series.

 

If you feel you could be helped with interventional psychiatric treatments, like Ketamine Therapy, reach out.  Our clinicians in Austin and in Dallas-Fort Worth would love to support your journey to health and healing. 

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5 Ways to Improve Your Ketamine or Spravato® Experience

5 Ways to Improve Your Ketamine or Spravato® Experience

August 8, 2023

When it comes to feeling better it is understandable that people with treatment-resistant depression feel nothing will work. Spravato® - a version of Ketamine - has been giving people hope.

Ketamine and the FDA-approved version Spravato® are gaining attention for treating depression that hasn’t responded or has not responded well enough to other medications, therapies, or both.

 

Spravato® must be administered in person at an approved center or clinic under the supervision of an approved clinician. At Heading Ketamine is also administered in person.

Our team offered a few ways to improve the experience receiving Ketamine or Spravato® and get the most out of treatment.

 

5. Follow Preparation Instructions from Your Care Team

“We conduct a thorough psychiatric consultation with a patient to establish the best route of care. If Ketamine or Spravato® is determined as the best next step our our clinical staff  follow up directly with instructions to prepare. Prior planning for schedule, travel arrangements, and understanding the DOs and DONTs help a patient feel more relaxed and safe going into their series,” shared Dr. Arif Noorbaksh, based out of Heading’s Trophy Club, Texas center which is just outside of Dallas Forth Wort.  

 

4. Remember, Your Questions are Welcome!

Unlike traditionally prescribed SSRIs, which can take weeks for symptoms to subside, Ketamine or Spravato® prescribed for depression can create change very fast.  The immediate effects of the medication create an altered state, and this experience (sometimes referred to as a ‘trip’) can feel surprising and unexpected.

 

During your consultation, and on the day of your sessions feel free to ask all of the questions that are on your mind. Your care team will be more than happy to walk you through any aspects that you might be nervous about, and also help you better understand the medication itself and how it works with your body for healing. 

 

3. Explore Your Intention 

Establishing an intention for treatment can improve the experience. You may have heard of having a ‘bad trip’. While remembering or processing experiences during therapeutic sessions is part of the experience, the mindset going in can improve your perception of the experience. 

 

Feeling prepared can go a long way to influence feelings of safety and calm, which in turn allow you to be more open to the immediate experience, and continue to integrate and optimize once the acute effects of the medication have worn off (and while the neuroplastic window is still most optimal.)

 

2. Meet with a Therapist Prior to Treatment and Soon After Treatments

Intentions shouldn’t be agendas, but rather frameworks for experience.  Be gentle with yourself as you consider prompts and affirmations.  A therapist can help with this!

 

If possible it is recommended to meet with a therapist prior to your first session to prepare. Andrea Marquez, a therapist at Heading in Austin, had this to say about preparation before interventional treatments, “I like to team my patients exercises such as body scanning, breathing practices, and self-soothing techniques. This can help them get back to the present moment if they become overwhelmed or surprised during their first Ketamine or Spravavto® experience.”

 

Likely your therapist will also want to see you soon after your sessions, within a day or two, to help you process the experience and set intention for the next. Integration has long been an aspect of psychedelic therapies, and academic study of this aspect of treatment is ongoing. After you have your initial sessions under your belt you and your therapist can shift from preparation and coping skills for the immediate treatment itself into understanding and integrating the ways in which Ketamine treatment can positively influence your goals for change. 


Regarding post treatment therapy sessions, Andrea also shared, “Over time I help patients work on thought processes that they may notice when they are in an interventional treatment. Together we unpack what came up. I also ask the patient what they feel will best support them. Sometimes it is just to hold space for those thoughts, and other times they desire a move towards change.” 

 

1. Stay Consistent

Ketamine offers fast relief for many patients who are struggling. But, the long-term outcomes are most optimal with consistency throughout a whole course of treatment, along with staying involved with follow up psychiatry and psychotherapy appointments. 

 

Typically Ketamine and Spravato® series are set for a series of several sessions across 11-12 weeks with additional maintenance as needed.  Attending all of the sessions in the prescribed cadence is important to the long-term positive outcomes that can be experienced from this course of treatment.

 

Ketamine and Spravato® open a window for change. But you are the one who is making it happen. If you need help making your treatment and follow up therapy talk with your care team about scheduling. Advocating for your care is a positive and powerful step in the healing journey. Mental health professionals are happy to help patients find the best rhythm of care that empowers you to say committed to the process. 

 

Ketamine is an exciting area of research, and it has the potential to help many people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and PTSD. If you or someone you know is considering using Ketamine for mental health treatment, consider setting up a consult with Heading where you could receive ketamine or Spravato® treatment in our centers in Austin or Dallas-Forth Worth.

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Preparing : A Guide to Your First Ketamine Treatment and Spravato® Treatment

Preparing for a Transformative Ketamine Therapy Experience

Preparing for a Transformative Ketamine Therapy Experience

A Guide to Your First Ketamine Treatment and Spravato® Treatment

Why Ketamine?

Ketamine therapy and its derivative, Spravato®, have emerged as promising treatments for individuals struggling with major depression and other mental health conditions. These innovative therapies offer new hope for those who have not found relief with traditional antidepressants. If you’re considering ketamine treatment, it’s essential to prepare yourself adequately for this potentially life-changing experience. 


In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of preparing for a ketamine therapy session, while incorporating insights from Dr. Arif Noorbaksh, a psychiatrist at Heading Health in Dallas, Texas, and Austin, Texas.

 

Understanding Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine therapy involves the controlled administration of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, to induce an altered state of consciousness, which many compare to a psychedelic experience, and interacts with the brain through the glutamate system which is different than many antidepressants which address serotonin reuptake. Spravato®, a nasal spray formulation of esketamine, a variant of ketamine, has been approved by the FDA for treatment-resistant depression specifically. 

 

Ketamine introduces windows of neuroplasticity, even after the immediate dissociative effects have worn off, empowering patients to reexamine thoughts, behaviors, and patterns that are proving detrimental to their mental health. This aspect of Ketamine therapy is one reason why very often those who are seeking Ketamine treatment are also seeing a therapist who understand their treatment and can help them integrate it into their therapy sessions, optimizing results. 

 

Dr. Noorbaksh also explains, “Ketamine and Spravato® appointments typically last a couple hours. Feeling safe, comfortable, and prepared is important for the process.” 

 

The purpose is to promote psychological exploration, facilitate emotional healing, and alleviate symptoms of depression and thus feeling safe, informed, and well cared for during your treatment not only makes the experience more pleasant but it actually aides in the effectiveness of treatment itself.  

 

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Dr. Noorbaksh emphasizes the significance of ensuring a safe, comfortable environment during ketamine therapy sessions. 

 

He advises, “Some people feel a little queasy from treatment. It’s helpful for a patient to eat earlier in the day to avoid hunger, but also not within two hours before treatment to reduce nausea.” 

 

To enhance your comfort, he suggests bringing along comfort items such as comfortable clothes, an eye mask, a favorite playlist with headphones, and even a pillow and blanket. These items can help you relax and feel at ease as you allow the medication to take effect.

 

Addressing Coffee, Alcohol, Medications and Other Substances:

Dr. Noorbaksh also highlights the importance of discussing medications and substances with your healthcare provider prior to undergoing ketamine therapy. He shares, “At Heading we have a full consultation to determine appropriate treatment. Also prior to Ketamine and Spravato® treatments we advise patients regarding alcohol and caffeine use, and other medications – including over the counter medications – to ensure safety before, during, and after treatment.” 

 

Open communication with your healthcare provider about your current medications, including over-the-counter drugs, alcohol, and caffeine, is crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. It is helpful to have your medical history, medication list, known allergies, and a willingness to discuss substance use on hand when connecting with a doctor about Ketamine therapy.

 

Proper Planning for Transportation

Dr. Noorbaksh stresses the importance of arranging safe transportation to and from your ketamine therapy sessions. He advises patients to make suitable arrangements, as they will not be able to drive after treatment. 

 

“Patients should leave their own car at home, make safe travel arrangements as they cannot drive after treatment, and must get a good night’s rest before resuming normal activities, including driving, the next day,” he explains. 

 

By planning ahead, you prioritize your well-being and the safety of yourself and others.

 

Ketamine Therapy in Austin, Texas, and Dallas, Texas

If you’re considering ketamine therapy in the Austin, Texas, or Dallas, Texas areas, Heading Health offers comprehensive treatment options including Ketamine therapy, psychiatry and medication management, and psychotherapy. 

 

With the guidance of experienced professionals like you can embark on a transformative journey toward mental wellness with a care plan personalized to meet your needs.

 

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5 Ways Spravato® is Different Than SSRIs

5 Ways Spravato® is Different Than Most Depression Medications

5 Ways Spravato® is Different Than SSRIs

Spravato® is a version of ketamine administered as a nasal spray. It is used to treat a type of depression called treatment-resistant depression. Treatment-resistant depression is a type of depression that is not improved by other medications. Spravato® is different from SSRIs, which are commonly prescribed for depression, in a few ways:

 

1. How it works:

Spravato® affects a different part of the brain called the glutamate system, and blocks certain receptors to help improve depression symptoms. Whereas SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin changing the levels of this chemical in the brain.

 

The glutamate system and the SSRI system are different in terms of their role in the brain and how they affect depression. In simpler terms the glutamate system and the SSRI system are like two different teams in the brain that work in separate ways to help with depression. 

 

Glutamate plays a role in regulating mood. Glutamate is the most abundant neurotransmitter in the brain and is involved in various brain functions, including mood regulation, cognition, and learning. It acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter, meaning it helps facilitate the communication between nerve cells.On the other hand, the SSRI system focuses on a different brain chemical called serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that also plays a role in regulating mood. SSRIs, which stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. By preventing the reuptake of serotonin, SSRIs help to keep more of it available in the brain, which can improve mood and relieve depression symptoms.

 

Both systems have different ways of addressing depression, and medications like Spravato and SSRIs target these systems to help people with depression feel better.

 

2. How you take it:

Spravato® comes as a nasal spray that you use in your nose making the absorption very quick. SSRIs usually come as pills that you swallow.

 

The nasal spray does of Spravato® are administered after you’re seen by clinic or center staff, and a psychiatrist. From there the effect of the medication will start to set in, and the psychiatrist and medical staff will monitory and support the patient during the appointment which typically lasts 2 hours. Those taking Spravato® should have a ride home after their appointment, and have a restful sleep before driving.

 

3. When it’s used:

Spravato is used when other medicines, like SSRIs, haven’t worked for depression. SSRIs are often the first choice for treating depression.

 

Diagnosing treatment-resistant depression involves a full evaluation. Initially, depression is diagnosed based on symptoms and criteria, and some people find successful reduction of symptoms with medication, therapy, or both.  However for some, these first-line treatments don’t work. For those individuals, a psychiatrist will assess treatment history, including the types of medications, other interventions, and side effect. From there they may recommend a different type of treatment, like ketamine or Spravato®. 

 

4. How quickly it works:

Spravato® has rapid benefit with some patients experiencing improvement within hours or days. SSRIs usually require several weeks of continuous use for symptom relief.

 

The method of taking Spravato®, as a nasal spray, is one reason why patients’ feel effects rapidly. However, quicker symptom relief is also related to the way in which Spravato® connects with the brain. Researchers are also studying the ways in which Spravato® improves neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change, which can accelerate the relief the symptoms of depression especially when offered in combination with therapy. 

 

5. Where it’s taken:

Spravato® is given in a clinic or center with mental health care experts on hand for you. In contrast, SSRIs can be taken at home  as a daily pill. 

 

Many patients find the presence of their mental health professionals very comforting. Since Spravato® is a version of ketamine some people may be hesitant to participate in treatment out concern about the psychedelic-like effects of the medication. However, the dosage and care of each patient is closely monitored by psychiatrists, nurses, and medical assistants who are familiar with Spravato® treatment enhancing both safety and efficacy. 

 

It’s important to know that Spravato has risks and side effects, so it should only be used with a doctor’s guidance. If you have questions about depression treatments, it’s best to talk to a doctor who can give you personalized advice based on your situation.

Connect with care, today!

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Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Ketamine Therapy?

Who is and is not a Good Candidate for Ketamine Treatment?

Ketamine treatment is a breakthrough for people who have not experienced relief from traditional modes of treatment or medications, or the effectiveness of these methods of care has diminished. Unlike traditionally prescribed medications which can take several weeks to show effectiveness, patients receiving ketamine often report a reduction in symptoms within the first few sessions.


Research shows that Ketamine  may be suitable for people with various mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and chronic pain, who have not responded to traditional treatments such as therapy and antidepressant medications. Specifically, Ketamine treatment has shown promising results in treating treatment-resistant depression, suicidal thoughts, and chronic pain. FDA approved drug Spravato® is approved for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression, and has changes the lives of many who have received this line of care.


There are many reasons why a traditional medication may stop working, or is otherwise not suitable for someone with treatment-resistant depression, or chronic, long-standing stress disorders like anxiety, or PTSD. For example some patients cannot tolerate the side effects of traditional medications. However, it is important to note that each individual’s circumstances are unique, and it is recommended to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if Ketamine treatment is a suitable option for their specific condition and medical history.


Ketamine and Spravato® are breakthroughs for many, but are not right for everyone.  In this article we look at some factors that may play into Ketamine candidacy and important safety considerations.  

Factors to Consider for Ketamine Candidates

It is important to consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if Ketamine treatment is appropriate for an individual’s treatment of depression, anxiety, or PTSD. At Heading we conduct an intervention treatment Q&A with a care coordinator as well as a 60 minute psychiatric consultation session to establish a personalized care plan and also to determine candidacy prior to a patient receiving treatment.

 

It’s important to note that candidacy works hand in hand with outcomes and patient goals. Both of these should be monitored continually through the process, and the process is not ‘one-and-done’. Prior to every in-center ketamine or Spravato® appointment several factors are monitored before treatment. Keeping optimal outcomes, and safety in mind patients have access to their care-team during treatment sessions, immediately after treatment sessions, and throughout the course of a treatment protocol. 

 

Ketamine is becoming more well known as an interventional treatment for depression and anxiety that have not responded well to other treatments. Ketamine offers rapid relief for many people, especially when other medications have not worked.

 

That said, the results for any depression treatment method are not the same across the board, because every patient’s individual needs are different. That’s why it is important that a mental health care-team always consider the best course of treatment for an individual.

 

As a patient considers ketamine treatment there are factors to keep in mind.

 

Ketamine may not be the right choice for someone if:

  1. They have uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart disease. Ketamine can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, which is why it is important for prescribers and care teams to be aware of a patient’s cardiovascular health history prior to receiving treatment.

  2. A patient has a history of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorders. Ketamine may have adverse side effects and worsen symptoms of these conditions.

  3. A patient has a history of substance abuse or addiction. Ketamine has the potential for abuse and care teams are careful to ensure that treatment will not trigger relapse. 

  4. They are pregnant or breastfeeding. There is limited research on the safety of ketamine use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and it is not recommended.

  5. They have certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease.

  6. They are unable to participate in the requirements for the protocol such as payments or co-pays, the time-investment is not suitable for that moment in life, or making arrangements for care such as getting a ride to a center if they are receiving treatment at a medical office or making time for the length of treatment is not feasible with their schedule. 

It’s also important to note that this is not an exhaustive list, and a thorough consultation under the direct care of a psychiatric medical professional is crucial.  Since the goal of ketamine therapy is to experience relief from long-standing and hard-to-treat mental health disorders, if the protocol isn’t working for a patient – that’s ok! There are always changes that can be made, and other treatments.  Personalized approaches including combination therapies, and a team of mental health care providers working together can make all the difference – as mental health care is not one-side-fits-all. 

Ketamine In Center Care and Safety

The two most important goals of determining candidacy are:

1) patient safety, and 

2) the best possible outcome for feeling better and healing.

 

 

Methods of receiving ketamine vary, and patient preference, insurance coverage, and access plays a large part into whether or not they seek treatment in a center, or through another means.  However, in-center treatments, under a doctor and medical team’s supervision, have added benefits to meet high standards for safety and outcomes.

 

 

“Patients receiving ketamine in a clinic or medical center receive an entire team of people who are supporting the best possible outcomes. Safety is, of course, paramount. Patients also take comfort in knowing that they have a medical team who can immediately make them more comfortable and answer any questions or concerns they may have in real-time. These are also the same medical professionals you will see time and time again. Developing therapeutic relationships requires trust, and building trust over time with your care team enhances the experience,” shared Dr. Arif Noorbaksh M.D. a leading psychiatrist at Heading who practices out of Dallas, Texas and offers virtual psychiatric services and medication management to patients statewide.

 

In addition to having medical professionals immediately available to monitor physical metrics before a treatment such as blood pressure and weight, some patients receiving Ketamine also feel more comfortable receiving treatment knowing that they are in a safe medical center with nurses and doctor’s just a few steps away as the medication takes effect.  Ketamine can induce a dissociative state, sometimes this is referred to as a ‘trip’, and the patient may feel out of body, like they are flying, or experiencing a range of sensations outside of their normal state of being.  In-center treatment options provide a patient with immediate options for assistance, and a team of medical professionals determining when a patient is ready and able to leave treatment. At Heading a ride to and from an appointment is required as it is not advised to drive or operate machinery until a patient has had a good night sleep after treatment. 

 

Thoughts When Considering Ketamine

  • Ketamine is an effective medication offering rapid relief for depression, but not everyone is a good candidate for treatment.
  • Safety is a top priority. Work with providers who offer thorough screenings and care throughout the process
  • Effectiveness is key. There’s no point in starting or continuing a treatment protocol if it is not proving to be effective. Select a psychiatry provider who will offer a holistic assessment of your needs, including honest feedback about whether or not Ketamine is a good choice for you, as well as what additional treatment protocols they might recommend such as additional medication options, lifestyle changes, or the addition of psychotherapy which can be important in both behavior change as well as integration of the Ketamine experience.
  • Consider your own personal preferences for set and setting. How would you feel in a center with medical professionals steps away versus another method?
  • Ask a lot of questions in your intake and consultations. No question is dumb or unnecessary. You deserve care coordinators and psychiatric professionals who take time to answer all your questions, and ensure your needs are being met throughout the process.
  • Become aware of insurance, payment, and coverage options. There may be expenses related to your care. Ask questions up front, and consider how investing in your mental health impacts your wellbeing and life overall.
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Brain Change with Psychedelics

The Depressed Brain may Rewire with Psychedelics

March 29, 2023

Researchers are discovering more information about why psychedelics may improve the symptoms of depression, and it's not all about the 'trip'.

Some psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin and MDMA, how promise in treating depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. They do this by encouraging the growth of new connections between neurons in the brain. This ability of the brain to make new connections is called plasticity. However, exactly how these drugs promote plasticity has been unclear.


It’s important to develop related drugs that can promote brain plasticity without causing ‘a trip’. 

Dr. David Olson and his research team from the University of California, Davis, have developed a sensor that can tell which drugs that attach to a receptor called 5-HT2AR in neurons have hallucinogenic properties and which do not. This study aims to figure out why only some of the drugs that bind to 5-HT2AR are capable of promoting brain plasticity. Brain plasticity refers to the brain’s ability to form new connections. Improved plasticity can help treat mental health disorders like depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.


Researchers discovered that a compound’s ability to enter a neuron and bind to receptors inside the cell determines how well it can promote the growth of dendritic spines. Dendritic spines are structures that help to connect neurons in the brain. The research team also found that clusters of the 5-HT2AR receptor could be found both inside and outside the neurons. The compounds that could bind to the receptors inside the neurons caused the dendritic spines to grow. But, the compounds that only bind to the receptors on the outer surface of neurons, such as serotonin, did not have the same effect.

When they used an electrical current to allow compounds like serotonin to enter neurons, the compounds promoted dendritic spine growth. Similar results were seen in neurons engineered to make a protein that can pull serotonin into cells. Neurons that took serotonin inside formed new dendritic spines. Neurons where serotonin could only bind to exterior 5-HT2ARs did not. When they tested this phenomenon in living brains of mice engineered to make a protein that can bring serotonin into neurons, the mice formed substantially more dendritic spines than in mice without the protein. The mice also showed improvements in a behavior test thought to be relevant to depression.


These results suggest that the 5-HT2ARs inside and outside of neurons activate different cell-signaling pathways. The researchers hope that these results will help develop better drugs that can safely activate the pathways for brain plasticity while avoiding hallucinogenic effects.


Interventional psychiatric treatments like Ketamine and Spravato® are already in use for depression including at Heading Health centers in Austin and Dallas. The addition of more psychedelic treatments, and understanding of each one’s particular best use is continuing to be researched with promising results offering hope that psychiatric researchers are moving closer to understanding how psychedelics can be safely administered for the rapid treatment of long-standing stress disorders. 

The research is now focusing on decoding the biological mechanisms behind how psychedelics can affect the brain and how the effects of these psychoactive drugs can be harnessed for therapeutic benefits. 


The research team is exploring the effects of psychedelics on the body’s serotonin, glutamate and dopamine systems, as well as their impact on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which plays a key role in the body’s stress response. They hope that by understanding the underlying biology of these substances, they can develop more effective treatments to help people suffering from mental illness. In addition, they are also studying the potential of psychedelics to enhance cognitive performance, creativity and even spirituality. Ultimately, the researchers hope that by better understanding the biochemistry of psychedelics, they can develop more effective treatments to help people suffering from mental illness and even improve overall well-being.

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Want to find out if Heading is right for you? 

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10 Helpful Facts About Ketamine Therapy

10 Helpful Facts About Ketamine for Depression and Anxiety

March 15, 2023

When it comes to feeling better it is understandable that people with treatment-resistant depression feel nothing will work. Ketamine is an option that is changing the story and offering hope.

Ketamine is a powerful drug that has been used in medical settings for decades, but it is now gaining attention for its potential to treat depression, anxiety, and PTSD. 

 

 

Here are 10 surprising facts about the drug that you should know. 

 

  • Ketamine is used in medical settings as an anesthetic, but it is also being used in psychiatric care as a treatment for depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
  • Ketamine is a dissociative anaesthetic that has psychedelic effects. It produces a feeling of altered consciousness and can cause hallucinations.
  • Research suggests that Ketamine positively impacts neuroplasticity, which is the ability of the brain to form new connections and reorganize itself. So, while the ‘trip’ may be all the buzz, the positive impact is has on brain connections overtime that is really exciting for patients who have experienced treatment resistance.
  • Ketamine is often used in combination with psychotherapy to help treat mental health conditions, and a therapist who is trained in offering care to patients in ketamine therapy can help patients process their treatment experiences and maximize its benefits.
  • Ketamine is generally considered safe but can cause side effects such as dizziness, nausea, and confusion. Seeking treatment within a center under medical supervision may be optimal as having a medical care team present to support treatment can both enhance safety and puts some patients at ease knowing if they are anxious about the experience.
  • Spravato® is a medication that is a variation of ketamine that has been FDA approved for treatment resistant depression. It is administered as a nasal spray.
  • Ketamine is not recommended for people with certain medical and psychiatric conditions, including heart disease and high blood pressure. This is why it is important to get a thorough consultation with a psychiatrist who specializes in this treatment, and can continually meet with you to monitor care.
  • Ketamine is not recommended for recreational use. 

Ketamine is an exciting area of research, and it has the potential to help many people who suffer from depression, anxiety, and PTSD. If you or someone you know is considering using Ketamine for mental health treatment, consider setting up a consult with Heading where you could receive ketamine or Spravato® treatment in our centers in Austin or Dallas-Forth Worth.

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Want to find out if Heading is right for you? 

Complete our consultation form and an intake specialist will get in touch.


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How to Prepare for Your First Ketamine Session

Embarking on Your First Ketamine or Spravato® Treatment

December 15, 2022

 

If you’ve been prescribed ketamine or Spravato® for treatment-resistant depression, major anxiety disorder, PTSD, or another mental health challenge it’s normal to have a mixture of feelings and questions. Perhaps you are asking yourself

  • “Do I need to have something in mind when I take the medication?”
  • “What happens to my brain and body during treatment?”
  • “Is there anything I should or shouldn’t do prior or after treatment?”
  • “Are there safety concerns that I should consider?”
  • “Am I going to ‘trip’?”

In this guide we will walk you through the first treatment process, and how this medication can support your health and healing.

We Assure Care and Safety.

Before Treatment

When you are receiving IM Ketamine or Spravato® at Heading you are in the care of doctors, nurses, and medical assistants trained in understanding the intention, usage, dosage, side effects, and safety considerations of these medications. Your safety, comfort, and care are their priorities.

 

 

Your care team will connect with you prior to your appointment, consultation, and administering the medication. Areas of care that you will discuss include your mental health history, what to expect from Ketamine treatment, billing, and insurance.

Then, you’ll also be scheduled for a consultation with a psychiatrist to determine diagnosis,  eligibility, and prepare for your treatment program.

 

Just before treatment the medical team from the clinic will call you to ensure you know what to expect, discuss the dos & don’ts before & after treatment, and discuss having transportation to and from treatment. 

During & After Treatment

During treatment you will meet with a medical assistant, nurse, and your doctor. Your treatment will be administered, and your medical team will check on you periodically before, during, and after to assess how you are feeling physically and emotionally. Ketamine has psychological effects, and physiological effects. Once your treatment is done your care team will ensure you’re feeling well enough to leave the clinic, and will advise you to take it easy for the rest of the day and avoid driving until you’ve had a full night sleep.

 

Then, if you are also participating in therapy along with Ketamine, you will attend an appointment with your therapist typically within 24-72 hours after treatment.

Consider Your Intention for Treatment

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, and even in dosages aligned for mental health rather than for physical anesthesia, it can produce powerful psychedelic experiences. Psychedelic treatments, including ketamine, induce thoughts and feeling that can be outside of typical daily thinking and processing. For that reason it’s helpful to consider the intention you have going into treatment, and support processing the emotions and experiences post treatment as well. 

 

The psychedelic affect of Ketamine is not only part of the appeal of these medications, but also an aspect of treatment that can have a profound impact. A 2006 John Hopkins study on psychedelic treatments – in the case of this study psilocybin was used – the experience of treatment was marked as one of the most significant experiences of their lives. Additionally studies have shown that ketamine treatment can be particularly effective in treating patients who have both PTSD and treatment-resistant depression concurrently. Given the influence a traumatic experience or experiences have on the persistence nature of challenging mental health conditions, understanding what you want to gain through treatment, and what you wish you heal may be helpful going into treatment. 

Pursue a Team Approach with Ketamine Treatment and Therapy

Feelings of overwhelm, and isolation often come with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. It’s important to not only know that you are not alone in your treatment. Therapist who are uniquely qualified to support patients receiving ketamine treatment may be able to support you best.  

 

Intention setting and experience processing can be supported through therapy, and it can be particularly helpful to have someone supporting you in digesting the experience of ketamine therapy after treatment. Perhaps you’re thinking, “Whoa, won’t I be too ‘out of it’ to navigate therapy during or immediately after treatment?”

 

The answer to that question, for you, might be yes.

 

We have found that not everyone feels up to the task of in-depth conversation during or immediately after treatment. However, this isn’t necessarily an issue. You’re still receiving benefit of ketamine treatment after the dissociative and psychedelic affects have worn off.

 

Ketamine is thought to support a brain change concept called neuroplasticity. This refers to the brain’s ability to reorganize synaptic connections – sort of like a software update on your computer. Studies have shown that there may be optimal windows of time, after the dissociative effects of ketamine are gone, to take advantage of the change-making aspects of the treatment. Therapists who are well-versed in ketamine’s ability to treat mental health and specialize in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, or have hard to treat or treatment-resistant disorders can offer relevant can offer guidance that positively impacts healing.

Bottom line – mental health healing can be a team-effort, and a Therapist is an important member of the team who will continually help you focus your needs, experiences, and healing at the center of care. 

 

“My advice to anyone anxious when starting therapy is to approach it with an open mind,” Ken shares, a therapist at Heading.

In other words, it’s important to adopt a more flexible attitude towards your own general beliefs about therapy and mental health, and even ketamine treatment. 

 

If you are receiving Ketamine and also attending therapy your therapist will continue to guide you with warmth and compassion, and they’ll be able to do so more effectively if you are open about what treatments you are seeking, and if they are specialized in supporting patients who are attending both psychedelic therapy and talk therapy concurrently.

 

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