Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ (KA-EMDR)
A specialized service offered at EMDR Transformations Counseling in Gilbert, Arizona.
A deeper approach to trauma healing
Some experiences stay with us long after they are over.
Even when we understand what happened logically, the body and nervous system can still carry the impact of trauma. For some people, accessing and processing these experiences can feel difficult even with strong therapeutic support.
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ (KA-EMDR) is an advanced trauma treatment that combines EMDR therapy with low-dose ketamine to help the brain process difficult memories in a safer, more supported way.
Clients remain grounded and actively engaged in therapy while accessing deeper layers of emotional healing.
What is Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™?
A specialized service offered at EMDR Transformations Counseling in Gilbert, Arizona.
A deeper approach to trauma healing
Some experiences stay with us long after they are over.
Even when we understand what happened logically, the body and nervous system can still carry the impact of trauma. For some people, accessing and processing these experiences can feel difficult even with strong therapeutic support.
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ (KA-EMDR) is an advanced trauma treatment that combines EMDR therapy with low-dose ketamine to help the brain process difficult memories in a safer, more supported way.
In this approach, ketamine is used at a psycholytic dose rather than a psychedelic dose. Psycholytic dosing involves a lower, sub-anesthetic amount of ketamine that gently shifts awareness while allowing the client to remain present, grounded, and actively engaged in therapy.
Clients remain grounded and actively engaged in therapy while accessing deeper layers of emotional healing.
How KA-EMDR works
Before beginning this treatment, your therapist will determine whether Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ may be appropriate for your goals and clinical history.
Because therapists do not prescribe medication, ketamine must be obtained through a licensed medical provider.
Many clients choose to work with one of the preferred prescribing providers we collaborate with, who are familiar with this treatment approach. Clients may also work with another qualified provider of their choice.
Once prescribed, clients bring their medication to their therapy appointment and self-administer according to their provider’s instructions.
The therapist’s role is to guide the EMDR therapy process and support regulation and integration throughout the session.
What a KA-EMDR session looks like
Sessions at EMDR Transformations Counseling are two hours in length.
This extended format allows time for:
- preparation and grounding
- medication onset
- focused EMDR reprocessing
- integration and stabilization before leaving the session
The pacing is intentional so clients can engage deeply in the work while remaining supported and regulated.
Who this approach may help
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ may be helpful for individuals who:
- have experienced trauma or adverse life experiences
- feel blocked or stuck in therapy
- struggle to access emotions during trauma processing
- become overwhelmed when working through difficult memories
KA-EMDR may also be especially supportive for first responders and high-stress professionals who experience cumulative trauma, repeated critical incidents, and chronic nervous system activation.
Treatment planning is individualized and based on each client’s history, goals, and readiness for trauma processing.
Important considerations
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ is an emerging therapeutic approach.
While early clinical experience is encouraging, results vary between individuals and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Low-dose ketamine may cause temporary effects such as:
- dizziness
- nausea
- emotional sensitivity
- mild changes in perception
Medical oversight from the prescribing provider is required throughout treatment. Medication costs and medical services are coordinated separately from psychotherapy.
Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ FAQs
Do therapists prescribe the ketamine?
No. Therapists at EMDR Transformations Counseling do not prescribe medication. Ketamine must be prescribed by a licensed medical provider.
How do I obtain the medication?
Many clients work with one of the preferred medical providers we collaborate with, who are familiar with Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™. Clients may also work with another qualified provider.
Will I be unconscious during the session?
No. KA-EMDR uses low-dose ketamine so clients remain awake, oriented, and actively engaged in the therapy process.
How many sessions are required?
The number of sessions varies depending on the individual and the trauma being addressed. Your therapist will collaborate with you to determine the pacing that best supports your healing process.
Explore whether KA-EMDR is right for you
If you are curious about whether Ketamine Assisted EMDR Therapy™ may support your healing process, the best first step is a conversation with your therapist.
Together, we can explore whether this approach fits into your overall treatment plan.
Call: 480-550-8340
Email: info@emdrinaz.com
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Hours
Monday - Saturday: 8am - 8pm
Sunday: Closed
