Cory Reese, LCSW

Cory has participated in one of the most rigorous programs in the country for psychedelic-assisted therapy certification. Part of his year-long training through Colorado-based Integrative Psychiatry Institute involved extensive training in Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and Cory is now offering this service in his office, in collaboration with a nurse practitioner who will prescribe the ketamine.

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Here are some of the potential benefits of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy:

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1. Rapid onset: Ketamine has a relatively rapid onset of action, and you may experience relief from symptoms within hours to days after treatment, compared to traditional antidepressants which can take several weeks to months take effect. People can often arrive at breakthroughs at a much faster rate than traditional therapy.
    

2. Effective treatment for treatment-resistant conditions: Ketamine has been shown to be effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
    

3. Increased Insight and Awareness: Ketamine can help individuals gain insights and awareness into their thought patterns, emotions, and behaviors. This increased awareness can help individuals make positive changes in their lives.
    

4. Increased Neuroplasticity: Ketamine has been found to increase neuroplasticity, or the brain's ability to form new neural connections. This can help individuals overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors.
    

5. Long-lasting effects: Studies have shown that ketamine-assisted therapy can have long-lasting effects, and can help individuals feel more connected to their emotions, more motivated to engage in positive behaviors, and more hopeful about the future.
    

6. Improved quality of life: Ketamine-assisted therapy has been shown to improve overall quality of life, including improved sleep, decreased suicidal ideation, and improved interpersonal relationships.

As with any therapy modality, ketamine is not a guaranteed fix. But it just might be the opportunity you're looking for to open the door to healing. (Learn more about Ketamine-Assisted Therapy HERE.)

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Costs / Packages

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Research has shown that a series of six ketamine treatments over a 2-3 week period can produce optimal outcomes, so this is typically the standard practice.

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Our first Ketamine-Assisted Therapy session will be 3 hours, and subsequent sessions will be 2 hours.

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Initial 3-hour session: $600 (includes preparation, setting intentions, and integration.)

Subsequent 2-hour sessions: $400

6-session package: $2200 (save $400)

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Independent nurse practitioner Melanie Reese has specific provider training for ketamine. She offers a comprehensive medical assessment and screening intake for $249, which includes the cost of oral ketamine for 6 sessions. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Does insurance cover ketamine treatments?

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy sessions are private pay only, although I can provide you with a superbill which some insurances may use to reimburse you at their out-of-network provider rate. 

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How is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy different from traditional ketamine clinics?

Ketamine-assisted therapy and regular ketamine clinics both involve the use of ketamine, but they serve different purposes and offer distinct approaches to treatment. Here are the key differences between the two:

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Purpose and Focus:

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: This approach integrates ketamine administration with psychotherapy. It is primarily used to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance abuse disorders. The focus is on providing a therapeutic context in which patients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences during and after the ketamine session. The psychotherapy component is essential for addressing underlying psychological issues.

 

Regular Ketamine Clinics: These clinics primarily provide ketamine infusion or ketamine nasal spray for symptom relief, often for conditions like treatment-resistant depression or chronic pain. The primary goal is to alleviate the immediate symptoms without the integration of psychotherapy. The emphasis is on the pharmacological effects of ketamine.

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Therapeutic Approach:

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: In this approach, a trained therapist or mental health professional works closely with the client before, during, and after the ketamine session. The therapy sessions are designed to help patients process their experiences and gain insights into their condition. The integration of psychotherapy enhances the therapeutic benefits of ketamine.

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Regular Ketamine Clinics: These clinics typically focus on the medical administration of ketamine in a controlled setting. Medical staff monitor the patient's vital signs and ensure their safety during the ketamine infusion. However, they do not typically provide ongoing psychotherapy as part of the treatment.

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Treatment Goals:

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy: The primary goal is not just symptom relief but also long-term healing and personal growth. Patients work on understanding the root causes of their mental health issues and develop coping strategies to manage them effectively. The therapeutic relationship is essential for this process.

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Regular Ketamine Clinics: The primary goal is symptom reduction. Ketamine is administered to provide rapid relief from conditions like depression or chronic pain. While the effects can be profound, they may not address the underlying psychological factors contributing to the condition.

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How does Ketamine-Assisted Therapy work?

During a ketamine-assisted therapy session, a patient is given a controlled dose of ketamine in a therapeutic setting, often under the supervision of a trained therapist or medical professional. The therapy component involves discussing thoughts, emotions, and experiences to promote healing and insight.

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How is the ketamine administered?

There are many different routes of administration, including IV, intramuscular, and orally. In our Ketamine-Assisted Therapy sessions, we will be using oral ketamine troches, similar to a lozenge. 

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Is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy safe?

When administered under proper medical supervision, ketamine is considered safe for most patients. However, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions. A thorough medical assessment is typically conducted before treatment to ensure safety. Ketamine-Assisted Therapy is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension or a history of psychosis. 

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What are the potential side effects of Ketamine-Assisted Therapy?

A common side effect is dissociation (feeling detached from one's body or surroundings). It is also possible to feel dizziness, nausea, and changes in perception. If these effects happen, they are typically temporary and subside after the ketamine wears off.