A Basic Overview

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a specialized, evidence-informed treatment that combines prescribed ketamine with guided psychotherapy to support emotional healing, personal insight, and therapeutic progress. This approach may be beneficial for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma, and other mood-related challenges — particularly when conventional treatments have not provided adequate relief.

KAP can help soften emotional defenses, encourage new perspectives, and foster a deeper connection with self in a supportive, carefully monitored environment. All KAP services at Integrating Nature are provided by Lindsay Cray, a licensed therapist who has completed specialized training and certification in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.

Eligibility and Participation Requirements

• KAP is available to Lindsay’s current clients at Integrating Nature or individuals actively engaged in ongoing therapy with another licensed mental health provider.

• Clients must be 18 years of age or older.

• A medical evaluation with an independent prescribing provider is required to confirm that ketamine is safe and appropriate for you. Lindsay partners with Joyous for medical clearance and prescriptions.

• Your care will be coordinated between Lindsay Cray at Integrating Nature and your prescribing medical provider to ensure an collaborative treatment plan.

KAP Treatment Pathway

1. Initial Assessment

As your therapist, Lindsay will begin with a comprehensive intake covering your goals, mental health history, and relevant medical background. This session determines whether KAP is a clinically appropriate and safe option for you.

2. Preparation Sessions

Before any ketamine dosing sessions, you will participate in 1-3 preparatory therapy sessions. These meetings establish therapeutic rapport, clarify intentions, and help you feel emotionally and psychologically prepared for the KAP experience.

3. Ketamine-Assisted Sessions

During dosing sessions, Lindsay remains present to provide support, grounding, and emotional safety throughout the experience. Ketamine lozenges are placed under the tongue or between the cheek and gum to dissolve slowly. You have the option of two dosing pathways depending on your clinical needs and preferences:

Option 1: Psychedelic (Higher-Dose) KAP (Partnership with local prescriber)

• Medical evaluation and prescription completed virtually through a local prescriber.

• Typical cost: $300–$355 for the appointment with the prescriber, which may include medication for two dosing sessions (some insurance accepted).

• Dosing sessions last approximately 2–3 hours, including 40–60 minutes of active ketamine experience. Frequency of sessions typically ranges from 4–6 total sessions.

• Therapy sessions may be reimbursed by insurance; otherwise, time is private pay at $120 per hour.

• Financing options are available through Advance Care (15-month interest-free) or CareCredit.

• This model often supports profound emotional processing and perspective shifts, while reducing anxiety, depression, avoidance, and lowering internal defenses.

Option 2: Psycholytic (Low-Dose) KAP (Joyous Partnership)

• A low-dose ketamine prescription is taken at the start of your therapy session (in-person or virtual). Some people may also choose to try independent, daily microdosing in addition to use in the therapeutic setting.

• During your therapy session this dose allows you to remain conversational and engaged while accessing emotions and insights with greater ease. Daily, at-home protocol requires the prescription be taken each evening before bedtime.

• Cost for a 30-day microdosing prescription is $129/month through Joyous.

• This approach helps to reduce anxiety, depression, avoidance in addition to lowering internal defenses to allow deeper therapeutic work.

4. Integration Sessions

Following each dosing experience, Lindsay recommends integration sessions to help you reflect on your experience, process insights, and apply them meaningfully in daily life. These sessions are essential for sustaining long-term therapeutic benefit.

What You May Experience During KAP

Ketamine effects commonly last 40–60 minutes, though higher-dose sessions may extend up to 3 hours. Some clients notice changes in perception, time awareness, or sensory experience, such as a feeling of floating or viewing experiences from a new perspective. Emotional material may arise that feels unfamiliar or intense. As your therapist. Lindsay will be present throughout to support and guide you safely.

A trusted support person must drive you home after psychedelic dosing sessions. You may not drive, work, or operate machinery until all effects have fully resolved.

Risks and Important Considerations

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is considered an off-label use of ketamine. Research findings are promising, though individual results vary. KAP is not appropriate for individuals with a history of psychosis, mania, or schizophrenia, or for those currently taking MAOIs, stimulant medications, or high-dose benzodiazepines.

Short-term side effects may include nausea, dizziness, increased heart rate, fatigue, or temporary confusion. These effects typically resolve within several hours after treatment.

Client Responsibilities

• Follow all medical and therapeutic instructions before, during, and after sessions

• Arrange reliable transportation home following dosing appointments

• Avoid alcohol or non-prescribed substances for 24 hours before and after ketamine sessions

• Inform your therapist and medical provider promptly of any concerning symptoms or health changes