Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™

Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™, or KA-EMDR, is a specific protocol in EMDR Therapy in which the client self-administers a psycholytic (low-dose) sublingual dose of ketamine that has been prescribed by a medical provider and proceeds with a 60-90 minute EMDR reprocessing session. EMDR is an evidence-based approach that allows individuals to process and heal from past experiences that continue to influence thoughts, emotions, and behaviors today. It facilitates the reprocessing of both episodic memory, which are specific, autobiographical events that a person can consciously recall, and implicit memory, which includes unconscious emotional and sensory experiences that may influence current behavior and body-based responses without conscious awareness. The addition of a psycholytic dose of ketamine can enhance and deepen memory reprocessing and reconsolidation of both episodic and implicit memories. Research shows that ketamine softens psychological defenses and enhances neuroplasticity, supporting the brain in forming new, more adaptive patterns. It also promotes a more mindful and open state of awareness by reducing activity in the Default Mode Network (DMN), the part of the brain associated with rumination and self-critical thinking.

 

Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ was developed in 2024 by Danielle Ciccone and Michele Topel, experts in both EMDR therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and co-founders of Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ Institute. They “specifically designed [the protocol] to maximize memory reconsolidation to help clients achieve deep, transformational healing.” For more information about KA-EMDR, trainings, and consultation, please visit https://www.ketamineassistedemdr.com/

 

This approach may be a good fit for individuals who are seeking to deepen their healing, whose psychological defenses remain intact despite focused work with traditional EMDR, and feel open and curious about exploring their inner world in new ways. Like a garden, our inner landscape has deep roots; this combination of EMDR and ketamine can gently loosen the soil, making it easier to reach the roots of our pain and transform what’s been buried.

 

If you are interested in Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™, please contact Kelly Alpert directly at kellyalpertlcswc@gmail.com

 

Please note, Kelly Alpert, LCSW-C does not provide medical services or prescribe or administer ketamine. If you are interested in KA-EMDR, Kelly will review the risks and benefits with you and refer you to a medical provider who collaborates with the Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ Institute. You may be required to meet with your primary care provider for a physical exam before you are eligible for KA-EMDR. Clients are responsible for discussing risks, benefits, and appropriateness of treatment with their healthcare team. This protocol does not guarantee symptom relief. As with all treatments, individual results may vary, and symptom reduction depends on multiple factors including trauma history, readiness for reprocessing, and engagement in the therapy process. 

 

Please note, for clients with CareFirst insurance, there is an additional fee for KA-EMDR sessions, as insurance only covers one 30, 45, or 60 minute session per day.