Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Antisocial Personality Disorder: A Case Report.

A 43-year-old man seeking treatment for alcoholism and depression was diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder. Over three years, a series of low-dose ketamine therapy sessions combined with integrative approaches led to resolution of severe alcoholism, a reduction in violent thoughts, and decreased depression symptoms. The case suggests that, with additional precautions, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy can produce clinical improvements in depression, alcohol abuse, and antisocial personality traits.

Study at a glance

Abstract

There are currently no evidence-based treatment guidelines for antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Instead, treatment typically focuses on comorbid conditions. There is currently no literature documenting cases or research, theoretical or otherwise of using ketamine-assisted therapy or any other psychedelic therapy in cases of ASPD. In this case report, a 43-year-old man seeking ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for alcoholism and depression was diagnosed with comorbid antisocial personality disorder. A series of psycholytic (low dose) ketamine therapy sessions and other integrative approaches over the course of 3 years results in resolution of severe alcoholism, reduction in violent thoughts about people and the world, and a reduction in depression symptoms. With additional precautions, utilizing a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy approach led to clinical improvements in depression, alcohol abuse, and ASPD traits.