Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Safety Information

At Soul Centered Therapy, your safety and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a powerful and promising approach to healing — and it requires intentional preparation, close medical collaboration, and a strong therapeutic relationship to be used safely and effectively.

This page outlines key safety information so you can feel informed, empowered, and supported in every stage of your treatment.

What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic with FDA Schedule III designation. While originally used in medical settings for anesthesia, it has also been shown to provide rapid symptom relief for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mood-related conditions — even in individuals who haven’t responded to traditional treatments.

At Soul Centered Therapy, ketamine is used in conjunction with psychotherapy to deepen insight, promote healing, and support integration. All KAP services are provided in collaboration with a licensed medical prescriber, who evaluates your eligibility and oversees your treatment plan.

Is Ketamine Safe?

When used responsibly under medical supervision and as part of a therapeutic treatment plan, ketamine is considered safe for most individuals. However, like any medication, it carries certain risks — particularly if used outside of medical or therapeutic care.

That’s why we take a collaborative, comprehensive approach:

  • A licensed medical prescriber performs a full medical and psychiatric screening before you begin treatment.

  • Your therapist works closely with your prescriber to ensure all vitals are monitored, your experience is supported, and integration is prioritized.

  • You’ll receive clear guidance and safety protocols to follow before, during, and after each session.

How We Prioritize Your Safety

Here are the ways we ensure safety throughout your KAP journey:

1. Medical Evaluation & Screening

You will meet with a licensed prescriber who reviews your medical and psychiatric history, assesses for contraindications, and determines if KAP is appropriate for you. Some individuals may need additional medical clearance from a PCP, cardiologist, or other provider.

Ketamine is not recommended for individuals with:

  • Uncontrolled high blood pressure

  • Congestive heart failure

  • Severe breathing problems

  • Schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or current psychosis

  • History of elevated intraocular or intracranial pressure

  • Pregnancy or nursing

2. Vitals Monitoring

Before each dosing session, you’ll measure your blood pressure and heart rate using a personal blood pressure cuff. Your prescriber will provide target ranges and your therapist will record your readings. If your numbers are outside the safe range, we will pause the session and consult with your medical provider.

3. Medication & Substance Guidelines

To reduce risk, clients must:

  • Avoid benzodiazepines and stimulants for 24 hours prior to dosing

  • Avoid alcohol before sessions

  • Continue taking prescribed antihypertensive medications

  • Fast for 3 hours from solids and 1 hour from liquids before treatment

  • Arrange for a safe ride home and avoid driving until the following day

4. Therapeutic Support During Sessions

Ketamine can bring about altered states of consciousness. Your therapist will remain present throughout the session to support emotional safety, track your experience, and assist if you feel overwhelmed or disoriented.

5. Emergency Protocols

If a medical emergency arises during a session, your therapist or support person may activate emergency services (i.e., call 911). You will also be prescribed anti-nausea medication (ondansetron) to take before sessions if needed.

What Are the Risks?

While side effects are uncommon and often mild, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. These may include:

  • Elevated blood pressure or heart rate

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Blurred vision or unusual sensations

  • Headache, dry mouth, or drowsiness

  • Psychological effects such as feeling “unreal” or emotionally raw

  • Temporary increase in vulnerability post-session

In rare cases, ketamine may worsen symptoms in individuals with bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, or certain medical conditions. This is why screening is essential.

What About Dependency?

When used recreationally or without structure, ketamine can carry a risk of psychological dependency. However, in clinical and therapeutic contexts, with spaced dosing and proper support, this risk is significantly reduced. We follow strict protocols to ensure ketamine is used intentionally and safely.

Aftercare & Integration

Following your session, you may feel emotionally sensitive or physically tired. We recommend taking the day to rest and reflect. An integration session will be scheduled to help you process your experience and apply insights to your everyday life.

A Note on Off-Label Use

Ketamine is legally prescribed for psychiatric conditions under an “off-label” use designation. This is a common and medically accepted practice — many medications are used off-label with guidance from licensed prescribers.

Your Role in Staying Safe

We invite you to take an active role in your own safety by:

  • Following your prescriber’s and therapist’s instructions closely

  • Communicating any concerns or side effects

  • Notifying us if your health or medications change

  • Honoring your limits and asking questions as needed

If you have any questions about KAP or would like to explore whether it’s right for you, we’re here to help.

Schedule a Free Consultation