Ketamine-assisted therapy is a holistic approach that uses ketamine, a legal, safe, and effective medicine, as part of a broader mental health treatment plan. It is commonly used to support people living with Major Depressive Disorders, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar Depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), severe anxiety, and treatment-resistant depression.

Rather than standing alone as a symptom-focused intervention, ketamine is often paired with psychotherapy so clients can actively explore, process, and work through the material that arises. With the guidance of a skilled and experienced therapist, the experience can support deeper healing and more lasting change. While ketamine may relieve symptoms on its own, the underlying patterns that contribute to those symptoms can remain unresolved without therapeutic support. In a personal therapeutic relationship, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy may help clients identify difficult experiences, recognize behavior patterns, and access insights that were previously outside their awareness.

Ketamine works by blocking the brain’s NMDA receptors and stimulating AMPA receptors, which are thought to support new synaptic connections and strengthen neural circuits involved in mood and stress regulation. In simple terms, the brain responds in a way that can trigger hormones associated with positive emotional states. Ketamine has also been shown to enhance neuroplasticity, which may contribute to longer-term symptom improvement.

Many clients notice effects within minutes and often report a sense of emotional openness and heightened awareness during the session. This can make it easier to recognize and address the deeper issues contributing to mental health concerns. Clinical research recommends a minimum of four doses for longer-term benefits, though individual needs vary and some people may require more. In some cases, clients experience a short-term shift lasting up to two weeks after just one or two doses.

Ketamine-based treatments are available in several forms, including intramuscular (IM) injections, sublingual (SL) lozenges, and Spravato® (esketamine nasal spray). Each option offers distinct advantages depending on the condition being treated, the response to care, and access to treatment. IM ketamine is known for the fastest and most potent relief, especially in severe cases. SL lozenges provide a gentler, lower-dose option that can support maintenance and integration. Spravato is the only FDA-approved ketamine treatment and is administered as a nasal spray in certified clinics, often with insurance coverage, though access may be more limited. Some patients benefit most from combining these approaches.

IM Ketamine: Given as 1–2 injections in the upper arm. Best for rapid relief of severe depression, acute suicidality, PTSD, and high anxiety when immediate intervention is needed. Bioavailability is approximately 90–93%, with strong antidepressant effects felt within minutes.
SL Lozenges: Dissolved under the tongue for absorption. Best for mild-to-moderate depression or anxiety, ongoing maintenance therapy, or a gentler introduction to ketamine treatment. Bioavailability is approximately 20–30%, offering more gradual and prolonged relief.
Spravato Nasal Spray: FDA-approved and administered only in a certified clinic under supervision, typically alongside an oral antidepressant. Best for treatment-resistant depression that meets insurance or regulatory criteria. Bioavailability is approximately 48%, with effects beginning within hours.

Blue Lotus Wellness offers nasal spray (esketamine), sublingual lozenge, and intramuscular injection options for clients who are prescribed treatment and administered onsite by a licensed medical provider.

Gestalt therapy class in Manchester