Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been safely used in medical settings since the 1970s. While traditionally used in surgeries, it also has unique properties that affect brain chemistry in ways that support emotional healing. Ketamine primarily works by blocking NMDA receptors and modulating glutamate, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood and cognition. It also influences pathways related to serotonin and dopamine. In recent decades, research has shown that ketamine can rapidly relieve symptoms of depression and help create new mental and emotional patterns when used in a therapeutic setting.

Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) is a healing modality that combines the neurobiological effects of ketamine with the depth and guidance of psychotherapy. In a safe, supportive setting, clients enter a non-ordinary state of consciousness where unconscious material, long-held patterns, and deep emotional truths can surface. With your provider present throughout, you’ll explore these insights and work through what arises. This process often fosters a profound sense of wholeness, clarity, and connection—with yourself and the world around you.

Yes. We welcome new clients who feel called to this work. Every individual begins with a medical evaluation to ensure that KAP is safe and appropriate for their health needs. During your preparation sessions, you and your provider will also explore and build a strong support system—an essential foundation for any deep inner work.

Absolutely. Healing is most effective when there’s collaboration. With your consent, your Seaside Psychiatry provider will communicate with your outside therapist to ensure a shared understanding and seamless integration of your journey experiences. This collaboration helps your outside provider support your growth between sessions and beyond.

We offer sublingual lozenges as our sole method of ketamine administration. Unlike intravenous or intramuscular methods, sublingual ketamine is gentle, effective, and well-suited to the therapeutic nature of our work. We find this route offers an ideal balance between accessibility, depth of experience, and ease of use.

All journey sessions are held at our serene Encinitas office: 191 Calle Magdalena, Suite 200, Encinitas, CA 92024. This space is designed to feel safe, grounding, and healing—so your inner work can unfold in peace.

Once medically cleared, your provider will send a prescription to a trusted compounding pharmacy based in San Francisco. After confirming your details with the pharmacy, your ketamine lozenges will be shipped directly to your home. You’ll store them safely and bring the appropriate number to each journey session, as discussed with your provider.

Many parts of the process can be conducted virtually. Preparation sessions may take place via video, though all clients will attend their final preparation session in person to become familiar with the space before their ketamine journey. Integration sessions can be done virtually, though we recommend in-person work when possible to form deeper connection with your provider and the space. All ketamine journey sessions must be completed in-office to ensure safety and therapeutic presence.

To ensure readiness for this work, all clients must complete a minimum of three preparation sessions prior to their first journey. These sessions build trust, clarify intentions, and create a foundation for insight and safety. Some clients may benefit from additional sessions depending on their unique background, goals, or emotional needs.

Integration is at the heart of lasting transformation. All clients are asked to schedule two integration sessions following their ketamine journey. These sessions help anchor insights and translate them into real-life change. You’re always welcome to book additional integration sessions as needed to support your ongoing growth.

How many ketamine journeys will I need? Healing is not one-size-fits-all. While some individuals find clarity after one session, we generally recommend committing to a series of at least three journeys to experience sustained emotional and psychological benefits. Your provider will collaborate with you to co-create a plan that aligns with your intentions, goals, and readiness.

KAP may be helpful for individuals navigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and existential distress. However, it is not recommended for individuals with conditions such as schizophrenia, psychosis, certain cardiac or liver issues, or uncontrolled hypertension. During your evaluation, we will review your health history and explore whether this path is aligned with your needs. If KAP is not the right fit, we’re happy to offer thoughtful referrals.