Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is an innovative and evidence-based approach that combines the use of ketamine with psychotherapy to help individuals experiencing persistent mental health challenges. KAP is particularly effective for treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma-related conditions.
This therapy provides new pathways for healing by enhancing neuroplasticity, reducing emotional distress, and allowing deeper access to the subconscious mind in a safe, controlled therapeutic setting.

What is Ketamine?
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that has been used safely for decades in medical settings. In recent years, extensive research has demonstrated its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions by:
- Rapidly alleviating depressive symptoms, often within hours of administration
- Enhancing neural connections that regulate mood and stress responses
- Promoting neuroplasticity, which helps the brain form new, healthier thought patterns
Unlike traditional antidepressants, which may take weeks to show effects, ketamine has been shown to offer relief from depression and anxiety symptoms within a short period of time.
How Does Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Work?
KAP integrates ketamine with guided psychotherapy to maximize its benefits. At Monmouth Integrative Counseling Services, in both our Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey locations, follow a structured, supportive process to ensure a safe and transformative experience.
1. Initial Consultation
Before beginning treatment, you will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess your medical and psychiatric history. If KAP is determined to be a good fit, a personalized prescription will be developed.
2. Preparation Session
Before the first dosing session, you will meet with one of our licensed therapists to discuss your treatment goals, set intentions, and understand what to expect during the experience. This preparation phase ensures that you are mentally and emotionally ready for the session.
3. KAP Dosing Session
During the dosing session, you will self-administer your prescribed ketamine lozenge while in a comfortable, controlled environment. You will wear an eye mask, listen to calming music, and allow the effects of the ketamine to take place. A licensed, Monmouth Integrative Counseling Services therapist will be present throughout the session to provide support and guidance as needed.
4. Integration Session
Following the dosing session, you will engage in therapy to process your experience. The insights gained during the ketamine session are explored, helping you integrate them into your daily life and therapeutic journey.
5. Ongoing Monitoring and Support
Continued follow-ups with our clinical team ensure that you are progressing in your treatment and receiving the necessary support. The number of KAP sessions varies based on individual needs and treatment plans.

What Does a Ketamine Experience Feel Like?
The effects of ketamine typically last about 45 minutes and are often described as a dream-like, expansive, or out-of-body experience. Many clients report a sense of emotional clarity, deeper self-awareness, and relief from distressing thoughts. These experiences can provide new perspectives and promote lasting changes in mental health.
Following the session, most individuals feel grounded and are able to reflect on their insights with the guidance of their therapist. Research shows that ketamine’s positive effects on mood and neuroplasticity can last for up to two weeks.
Who Can Benefit from KAP?
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy has been shown to help individuals struggling with:
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Trauma-related conditions
- Existential distress or emotional numbness
KAP is especially beneficial for individuals who have tried traditional therapies and medications but have not experienced significant symptom relief.
Is Ketamine Safe?
Ketamine has been extensively studied for its safety and efficacy in mental health treatment. Unlike many traditional psychiatric medications, ketamine has a well-established safety profile when administered at appropriate doses under medical supervision. Side effects are generally mild and may include temporary dizziness, nausea, or mild disorientation, which subside shortly after the session.

The Science Behind Ketamine for Mental Health
Clinical research supports ketamine’s ability to create rapid and lasting improvements in mental health. According to studies published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, ketamine has been shown to reduce suicidal thoughts and depressive symptoms significantly faster than traditional antidepressants (Murrough et al., 2013). Additional research from the Biological Psychiatry highlights ketamine’s ability to enhance neuroplasticity, improving cognitive function and emotional resilience over time (Wu et al., 2021).
Getting Started with KAP
If you are interested in exploring Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy as a potential treatment option in our New Jersey offices, we encourage you to schedule an initial consultation with our team. At Monmouth Integrative Counseling Services, our compassionate therapists will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring a safe and transformative healing journey.
Call 732-231-5170 or Contact Us Now For more information or to request an appointment
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) FAQ
How is KAP different from traditional therapy?
KAP combines ketamine with psychotherapy to enhance emotional breakthroughs and neuroplasticity. The medication temporarily alters perception, allowing for deeper self-exploration and processing of difficult emotions.
What conditions can KAP help treat?
KAP has been shown to be effective for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, and trauma-related disorders. It may also help individuals who feel “stuck” in traditional therapy.
What does a typical session look like?
After an initial consultation and preparation sessions, a KAP session includes self-administering a ketamine lozenge while in a relaxed setting with a therapist present. Once the medicine takes effect, the experience lasts about 45 minutes, followed by integration therapy to process insights and emotions.
Will I lose control during a session?
Ketamine creates an altered state of consciousness but does not cause a complete loss of awareness. Clients remain responsive and supported by a therapist throughout the session.
Is KAP safe?
Ketamine has a long history of medical use and is considered safe when administered appropriately. Some temporary side effects may include dizziness or nausea.
How quickly will I see results?
Many clients experience relief within hours or days of their first session, with effects lasting up to two weeks. A full course of treatment typically involves multiple sessions for sustained benefits.
What is integration therapy, and why is it important?
Integration therapy helps clients process and apply insights gained during their ketamine experience. These sessions reinforce positive changes and ensure lasting therapeutic effects.
How do I know if KAP is right for me?
A thorough evaluation by our clinical team will determine if KAP is a suitable treatment option based on your mental health history and current needs.
For more information or to schedule an initial consultation, contact us today.