Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, psychedelic methodologies, and the impregnable value of the subjective—a new and evolving approach
Frontiers in Psychiatry February 1, 2024 Phil Wolfson, Gita Vaid 17 citations
Ketamine, the only legally prescribed psychedelic medicine in psychiatry, produces a spectrum of altered states at subanesthetic doses—from psychoactive to deep ego-dissolving experiences—that are intrinsic to its therapeutic effects. When these experiences occur within a therapeutic relationship that amplifies subjective consciousness, personal growth, inner healing, clarity, and better relationships may follow. Although the dissociative effects of ketamine have historically been labeled as side effects, in a conducive set and setting they can be positively used in psychiatry and psychotherapy, providing a time-out from usual states of mind to reshape self-experience and relieve symptoms. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) emphasizes recognizing experience, individuality, and imagination, with close attention to subjective experience, expression, and integration as essential for successful outcomes.