What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is a medication primarily known for its use as an anesthetic in medical settings. It was originally developed in the 1960s and is classified as a dissociative anesthetic. This means that it can create a sense of detachment from one’s environment and sensations, leading to a unique state of consciousness.
Over the years, ketamine has gained attention not only for its anesthetic properties but also for its potential therapeutic benefits in the field of mental health.
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Ketamine Assisted Counseling also known as Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAT) is particularly beneficial for people struggling with conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, and chronic pain. It offers a compassionate and effective alternative for those who may not have found relief through conventional therapies.
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In recent years, ketamine has gained attention for its effectiveness in treating a range of mental health conditions. Research has shown that ketamine can offer rapid relief for individuals struggling with depression, particularly those who have not responded to traditional antidepressants. This makes it a valuable alternative for those seeking faster results.
Additionally, ketamine has been found to significantly reduce symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), helping individuals process traumatic memories more effectively. It has also proven beneficial for individuals with anxiety, especially those dealing with treatment-resistant anxiety, providing much-needed relief for those who have struggled with conventional therapies.
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Ketamine works by affecting a part of the brain that controls your mood and thought patterns. It helps improve communication between brain cells and supports the brain's ability to adapt and change. This process is believed to explain why ketamine can quickly relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety, often within hours, unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks to have an effect.
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If you or a loved one is considering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, we invite you to contact us at 954.391.5305 to discuss how this innovative therapy approach can support your journey toward healing and growth.​
How is Ketamine Being Used in Psychotherapy?
Ketamine Assisted Therapy is an innovative therapeutic approach that integrates the use of ketamine, a medication originally developed as an anesthetic, with counseling services. This treatment aims to enhance emotional healing and foster deeper connections during the therapeutic process.
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In preparation for your Ketamine treatment, you’ll meet with Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn at Bayview Therapy to discuss your unique goals, hopes, concerns, and create an individualized treatment plan. Our approach is collaborative, so once you’re ready to move forward, we’ll consult with our prescribers and you’ll be able to schedule your first appointment to learn more about how Ketamine treatment can help. ​
The effects of ketamine can help break down mental barriers, allowing you to access and explore emotions and thoughts that may have been difficult to reach in traditional therapy. This process can lead to profound insights, increased emotional awareness, and a renewed sense of hope.
What Can Ketamine Assisted Therapy Help With?
Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAT) has emerged as a groundbreaking approach to mental health treatment, offering new hope for people facing a variety of persistent psychological and emotional challenges.
By combining the effects of ketamine with therapeutic interventions with an expert psychologist trained in Ketamine Assisted Counseling, this innovative approach can provide relief for a range of mental health conditions.
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy can Provide Relief for:
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1. Depression:
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Ketamine has shown remarkable efficacy in treating major depressive disorder, especially for those who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications. Many clients report significant reductions in depressive symptoms within hours of treatment. Ketamine Assisted Therapy can help break the cycle of despair and restore hope, allowing people to engage more fully in life and therapy.
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2. Anxiety:
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For those struggling with anxiety (including generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and panic disorder), Ketamine Assisted Therapy can provide rapid relief from overwhelming feelings of fear and tension. The calming effects of ketamine can help individuals regain a sense of control and develop healthier coping strategies.
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3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD):
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with PTSD, as it can facilitate emotional processing and reduce the intensity of traumatic memories. By creating a safe space for clients to explore their experiences, ketamine therapy can promote healing and resilience, allowing individuals to reclaim their lives from the grip of trauma.
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4. Chronic Pain:
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Chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia, can be debilitating and lead to emotional distress. Ketamine has analgesic properties and can help alleviate pain while also addressing the emotional components of living with chronic pain. This dual approach can improve overall quality of life.
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5. Addictive Behaviors:
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy has shown promise in supporting individuals with addictive behaviors. By addressing underlying emotional issues and promoting healthier coping mechanisms, Ketamine Assisted Therapy can help clients reduce cravings and facilitate long-term recovery.
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6. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
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For those struggling with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), KAT can help reduce the severity of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. By providing a different perspective on their symptoms, clients can begin to challenge and reframe their thought patterns in a supportive therapeutic environment.
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7. Social Isolation & Lonlieness:
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In today’s world, many individuals experience feelings of loneliness and social isolation. Ketamine Assisted Therapy can foster emotional connection and understanding, allowing clients to explore their feelings and build meaningful connections with others. This therapeutic approach can help individuals develop a more positive self-image and improve their relationships.
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8. Difficulty Processing Emotions:
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Many individuals struggle to process their emotions effectively, leading to feelings of overwhelm or emotional numbness. Ketamine can facilitate access to deeper emotional states, enabling clients to confront and work through their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
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10. Enhancing Personal Growth:
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy is not solely focused on addressing mental health challenges; it can also serve as a catalyst for personal growth and self-discovery. By exploring emotions, thoughts, and beliefs in a therapeutic context, clients can gain valuable insights that promote healing and personal development.
The goal is not just about alleviating symptoms; it’s about fostering a transformative experience that empowers clients to reclaim their lives and cultivate emotional well-being. If you or a loved one is considering Ketamine Assisted Therapy, we invite you to contact us at 954.391.5305 to discuss how this innovative therapy approach can support your journey toward healing and growth.
How Does Ketamine Assisted
Therapy Work?
Our Ketamine Assisted Therapy process is grounded in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based counseling techniques. We recognize that each person's journey is unique, which is why we take a collaborative approach working in synch with your goals and your provider's recommendations. With our expert guidance, you can move through this process with greater clarity and hope.
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What to Expect with Ketamine Assisted Counseling:
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1. Schedule Your Initial Counseling Session:
Contact us to schedule your initial counseling session where you’ll meet with Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn to discuss your current needs and address any questions or concerns you might have regarding Ketamine Assisted Therapy. This is a collaborative process and Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn is committed to making sure all of your decisions are well-informed.
2. Referral to One of Our Prescribers:
Once you’ve identified your goals with our Ketamine Assisted Therapist and you're ready to move forward, we’ll refer you to one of our Ketamine prescribers so you can set up an appointment. There you’ll be able to meet with a Psychiatrist who prescribes the Ketamine Treatments and learn more about what to expect during future Ketamine Treatments. We offer a collaborative approach and will work with your prescriber to ensure the best therapeutic outcomes.
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3. Preparatory Counseling Session:
Meet with Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn prior to your first Ketamine Assisted Therapy treatment to develop realistic goals and expectations regarding your first Ketamine treatment session. You can also share any fears or concerns and learn strategies for managing discomfort that might emerge during treatment.
4. Optional Therapeutic Support During Your Ketamine Treatment:
If you’d like additional therapeutic support during your Ketamine Treatment, we can discuss this option during our preparatory counseling session.
5. Integration Sessions:
These counseling sessions may be held weekly or twice a week at the Bayview Therapy office depending on the ideal level of support you’re looking for during and after the Ketamine Assisted Therapy treatment with your prescriber.
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What Are the Benefits of Ketamine Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine Assisted Therapy offers a compassionate and effective approach to addressing a wide range of mental health challenges. By combining the powerful effects of ketamine with supportive therapeutic interventions, you can experience relief and embark on a transformative journey toward healing. If you or someone you know is struggling, consider exploring the benefits of Ketamine Assisted Therapy as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
1. Rapid Relief of Symptoms:
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Many clients experience rapid improvement in their symptoms following ketamine administration. This can be particularly advantageous for those suffering from severe depression, anxiety, or PTSD/Trauma where traditional treatments may take weeks to become effective.
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2. Enhanced Emotional Processing:
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Ketamine can create a dissociative effect that allows individuals to step back from their immediate emotional responses, fostering a deeper understanding of their feelings and experiences. This can facilitate breakthroughs in therapy and promote healing.
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3. Reduced Feelings of Hopelessness & Helplessness:
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For those struggling with chronic mental health issues, ketamine can help alleviate feelings of hopelessness, despair and helplessness, providing a renewed sense of hope, possibility and motivation to engage in the therapeutic process.
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4. Increased Neuroplasticity:
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Ketamine is believed to promote neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to adapt and change. This can enhance learning and emotional resilience, making it easier for individuals to develop healthier coping mechanisms and thought patterns.
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5. Lowered Anxiety Levels:
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The calming effects of ketamine can significantly reduce anxiety levels, allowing you to engage more fully in therapy without the overwhelming grip of anxiety.
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6. Access to Deep Emotional States:
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Ketamine can help you access deep emotional states that may be difficult to reach through traditional talk therapy alone. This can lead to increased self-awareness and insight into unresolved issues.
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7. Support for Traditional Therapies:
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy works synergistically with traditional therapeutic approaches, enhancing their effectiveness. It can be particularly beneficial when combined with modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), or trauma-focused therapy.
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8. Improved Relationships:
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As you gain insights and work through emotional challenges, you may find improvements in your relationships with others. The increased emotional awareness can foster better communication and connection with loved ones.
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9. Compassionate Care:
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At Bayview Therapy, we prioritize a compassionate and supportive environment for our clients. Our team is dedicated to guiding each client through their healing journey with empathy, respect and understanding. Our Ketamine Assisted Therapist, Dr. Jeff Mandelkorn has vast experience in the mental health field and will be a great resource for you along your journey to health and well-being.
Why Work With Dr. Jeff Mandelkorn in Ketamine Assisted Counseling?
Long-lasting growth and change involves not only relief from one’s symptoms, but also learning to make the lifestyle adjustments that support these changes. This is where high quality counseling takes center stage. The importance of the therapy portion of Ketamine Assisted Therapy cannot be overstated, and neither can finding the best fit for your Ketamine Assisted Therapy prescriber.
Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn has nearly a decade of experience working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and the impact of trauma. Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn can help you to make sense of your history and assist you in changing your self-limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors.
Ketamine Assisted Therapy can offer great relief, and many report a renewed interest in getting back out into the world; however, years of depression or anxiety can make it difficult to feel confident, worthwhile, or capable of doing so. Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn can help you make the most out of this new chapter in your life.
If you are seeking Ketamine Assisted Therapy, then traditional medications have not been successful in giving you symptom relief. This can be an extremely frustrating, even alienating experience. There might also be fear or stigma associated with the term “Ketamine”. Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn is sensitive to these concerns and understands the importance of feeling seen and understood.
You Deserve Greater Peace & Fulfillment. Get Started Today with Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
At Bayview Therapy, we are committed to providing personalized care and support for all our clients. Our therapists are experienced in working with a variety of mental health challenges, ensuring that you receive the guidance and tools necessary to navigate your unique journey.
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If you’re in need of additional support for managing mental health challenges and you’re ready to explore Ketamine Assisted Therapy, we’re here to help!
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Call us today at 954.391.5305 for your complimentary phone consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Mandelkorn to see how Ketamine Assisted Therapy can help you and/or your loved ones. We look forward to speaking with you.
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We provide Ketamine Assisted Therapy at our Fort Lauderdale office in collaboration with our providers. We also offer traditional counseling and psychological evaluations at our Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, and Plantation offices as well as online therapy via our secure telehealth platform.
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Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and it's okay to ask for help when you need it. We’re here for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine Assisted Therapy:
What term is the correct term: Ketamine Assisted Therapy, Ketamine Assisted Counseling, or Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy?
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In the mental health field, the terms "Ketamine Assisted Therapy," "Ketamine Assisted Counseling," and "Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy" are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle distinctions:
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Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAT): This is the most commonly used term. It encompasses a broad range of therapeutic approaches that utilize ketamine as an adjunct to enhance the therapeutic process. It implies a more integrated approach, often combining medication with psychological therapies.
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Ketamine Assisted Counseling: This term suggests a focus on the counseling aspect of the therapeutic process but is less commonly used than "therapy." It can be appropriate when emphasizing supportive counseling techniques alongside ketamine administration.
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Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy: This term specifically indicates the use of ketamine in conjunction with psychotherapeutic techniques. It suggests a more in-depth exploration of mental health issues within a psychotherapy framework.
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Overall, Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAT) is the most widely recognized and accepted title in the mental health field. It is often preferred because it encompasses various therapeutic modalities, including counseling and psychotherapy.
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Is There Any Risk of Getting Addicted to Ketamine?
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When used in a clinical and therapeutic context, ketamine is not considered addictive. The doses administered during Ketamine Assisted Therapy are significantly lower and more controlled compared to those often used recreationally. Our approach is collaborative and short-term, with a clear treatment plan designed with your prescriber to meet your unique needs and goals.
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At the heart of our practice is a commitment to your healing and growth. We prioritize your safety and well-being throughout the process. Our aim is to enhance your emotional and mental health through this transformative experience, rather than fostering any dependency. With a focus on integration and therapy, we provide a supportive environment that empowers you to navigate your journey toward wellness without the risk of dependence.
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Will My Insurance Cover Ketamine Assisted Therapy?
Although our counseling services at Bayview Therapy are not in-network with any insurance companies, some of our prescribers are paneled with most insurances for Ketamine treatments. If you have questions about your specific insurance company covering the treatment, please contact them directly.
How Many Ketamine Treatments Will be Necessary?
Each individual's experience with ketamine assisted therapy is unique. Our practitioners collaborate with clients and our prescribers to develop personalized treatment plans that align with their specific needs and goals.
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Additional Counseling Services at Our Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, & Plantation, FL Offices
Ketamine Assisted Therapy isn’t the only counseling and psychological service we provide in our Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, and Plantation offices. We help people across their life span... Sometimes, life gets complicated and you or your loved ones may be struggling with more than one challenge. Keep in mind, you're not alone... no matter what you're going through, we're here to help!
Our expert psychologists and counselors at Bayview Therapy specialize in different areas. We offer a wide range of counseling and psychological services to support our Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Plantation, Southwest Ranches, Davie, Weston, Coral Springs, Coconut Creek, and Parkland communities.
We provide therapy and psychological evaluations for children, teens, adults, couples, and families dealing with a wide variety of life's challenges across the lifespan. Some of our specialties include depression counseling; trauma therapy and EMDR therapy; teen counseling; child and family counseling; couples counseling or marriage therapy; psychiatric medication management; and more.
We also provide affirmative counseling for the LGBTQ+ community and online counseling options using our secure HIPAA compliant platform.
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