At Wholesome Psychology, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to our local communities in Edmonton and St. Albert. As part of our commitment to innovative and client-centered support, we are proud to offer ketamine assisted therapy as an adjunct to traditional counseling for adults experiencing depression, PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
What Is Ketamine Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine assisted therapy is an emerging mental health treatment that integrates the therapeutic use of ketamine with professional psychological support in a safe, supportive environment. This approach is designed to maximize the benefits of ketamine’s neurobiological effects while ensuring clients receive the highest standard of care from licensed therapists.
Ketamine, originally developed as an anesthetic, has gained recognition for its rapid-acting antidepressant and anxiolytic properties at lower, controlled doses. In a therapy setting, ketamine can be used to help clients explore their thoughts and emotions with enhanced openness, often unlocking new pathways to healing and resilience. To learn more about our unique perspective, see our unique approach.
How Ketamine Assisted Therapy Works
At Wholesome Psychology, clients who seek ketamine assisted therapy will work collaboratively with our mental health professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan. This includes:
- Assessment: We begin with a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms, personal history, and treatment goals. For an overview of getting started, visit getting started with therapy.
- Preparation: Prior to your first ketamine session, you’ll have preparatory counseling to ensure you understand the process and feel supported.
- Supervised Sessions: Ketamine sessions are conducted in a safe, comfortable setting with continuous supervision by experienced therapists.
- Integration Counseling: After each session, integration therapy helps you make sense of your experiences, connect insights to daily life, and develop practical coping strategies.
Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Assisted Therapy?
Ketamine assisted therapy is being researched and applied for a variety of mental health concerns, including:
This therapy is not suitable for everyone, and it is essential to have a thorough psychological and medical evaluation before starting. Our therapists will closely partner with your existing mental health or medical providers to ensure coordinated, ethical, and informed care.
Our Approach: Trauma-Informed, Holistic, and Client-Centered
Wholesome Psychology’s approach to ketamine therapy reflects our core values of trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and evidence-based care. We recognize that each person’s healing journey is unique. Our therapists are committed to cultivating a collaborative environment in which you are treated with respect, dignity, and compassion at all stages of therapy.
From our offices in Edmonton and St. Albert, we serve individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. All clients are welcomed and encouraged to share their preferences and cultural perspectives — your voice matters and shapes your therapy experience.
What to Expect During Ketamine Assisted Therapy
Your experience will begin with an initial consultation with a licensed therapist. Together, you will:
- Discuss your mental health history, current symptoms, and hopes for treatment
- Review the risks, benefits, and potential outcomes of ketamine assisted therapy
- Collaborate on identifying clear goals for your therapy journey
On the day of each session, you’ll be supported in a calm, private space. Your physical and emotional well-being is continuously monitored by a dedicated team. After each session, you’ll participate in integration counseling, where insights and emotions can be processed, and new strategies for well-being are developed.
Is Ketamine Assisted Therapy Safe?
Ketamine has a strong safety profile when administered at appropriate doses under medical and psychological supervision. Not everyone is a candidate, and clear screening guidelines are followed. Our therapists collaborate with prescribing physicians to manage any potential risks and to help ensure the safest, most ethical therapy experience possible.
If you are interested in learning more about safety, eligibility, and the principles guiding our practice, we invite you to read about what to expect from therapy.
Integration Counseling: The Heart of the Healing Process
Research shows that the true benefits of ketamine in mental health care are maximized when combined with skilled integration counseling. This involves exploring the emotional, psychological, and sometimes spiritual insights gained during ketamine sessions, and turning them into actionable, positive changes in daily life.
Our integration work draws on a range of evidence-based counseling methods, including trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and mindfulness-based approaches. This ensures your therapy experience is holistic, responsive, and deeply attuned to your needs. For information on other evidence-based therapies, see our full list of services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine Assisted Therapy
How many sessions will I need?
The number of ketamine assisted therapy sessions varies based on your specific needs and goals. Some clients notice rapid improvements, while others benefit from a more extended integration process. Your therapist will work with you to develop a schedule that respects your preferences and tracks progress with regular check-ins.
How do I know if this therapy is right for me?
The best first step is a confidential conversation with one of our experienced therapists. After a thorough assessment, we will discuss all your options and help you make an informed decision about your care.
Will insurance cover ketamine assisted therapy?
Coverage varies, so we recommend contacting your provider directly. Our office team can provide documentation to help with any required claims or reimbursement processes.
What other therapy modalities are available at Wholesome Psychology?
In addition to ketamine assisted therapy, we offer a full range of evidence-based therapies. Learn more about our cognitive enhancement and mental performance services, psychodynamic therapy, and emotionally focused therapy.
Meet Our Therapists
Our team of therapists and psychologists in Edmonton and St. Albert is highly trained in delivering advanced, compassionate mental health care. Meet our therapists and discover who might be the right fit for your journey with ketamine assisted therapy.
Start Your Healing Journey with Ketamine Assisted Therapy
If you live in Edmonton, St. Albert, or the surrounding area and are seeking an innovative, science-backed approach to mental wellness, ketamine assisted therapy at Wholesome Psychology could be a positive step forward. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how we can support you in your unique path to healing.
Additional Resources
Wholesome Psychology is proud to serve Edmonton and St. Albert as a leader in trauma-informed, inclusive, and innovative mental health care.
