Ketamine-Assisted EMDR (KA-EMDR) combines two evidence-based approaches — low-dose ketamine therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) — to help the brain safely release the effects of trauma and chronic stress.
This integrated method allows healing to occur more deeply, rapidly, and with less emotional distress than traditional therapy alone.

Ketamine creates an optimal state, EMDR does the integrative work. The combination (KA-EMDR) is thought to produce a synergistic effect: ketamine “opens the door” by reducing defenses, anxiety and rigid mental patterns; EMDR then safely guides the therapeutic work of processing and reintegrating painful memories. Some early data and case reports suggest this combined method may yield faster and more durable symptom reductions compared with standard therapy alone.

Ketamine works by temporarily enhancing the brain’s ability to form new connections — a process called neuroplasticity. This helps “loosen” rigid thought and emotional patterns that have been shaped by trauma, depression, or anxiety. At low doses, it creates a calm, open state of mind that reduces fear and defensiveness, allowing difficult memories or emotions to surface safely.

EMDR provides the structure and direction for healing and integration.

Clients often find that this combination allows them to access and process experiences that previously felt “stuck” or too overwhelming to face. Many describe the sessions as deeply healing, with faster and more lasting relief from symptoms such as anxiety, intrusive thoughts, emotional numbing, and hypervigilance.

In short, Ketamine-Assisted EMDR helps the brain relearn calm, reconnect with safety, and restore balance — allowing meaningful change to occur where talk therapy alone may have platea

How It Works

1. Ketamine

• Administered in low, sub-anesthetic doses in a therapeutic setting.
• Temporarily enhances neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to form new, healthier connections.
• Reduces fear, shame, and emotional defensiveness, allowing calm and openness.

2. EMDR

• Uses guided bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or tones) to reprocess distressing memories.
• Helps the brain “re-file” those memories so they no longer trigger intense emotional or physical reactions.

3. The Synergy
Ketamine provides a calm, flexible state of mind. EMDR gives the structure and guidance for emotional re-processing.
Together, they create an optimal environment for accelerated and lasting healing.

Why It’s Effective

• Promotes rapid relief from trauma-related and depressive symptoms.
• Improves emotional regulation and insight without overwhelm.
• Enhances neuroplasticity to help the brain “unlearn” trauma patterns.
• Strengthens mind-body connection and self-awareness.
• Often leads to meaningful breakthroughs when progress has plateaued.

Commonly Reported Benefits

• Greater calm and emotional clarity.
• Reduction in anxiety, hypervigilance, and intrusive thoughts.
• Improved sleep and sense of groundedness.
• Renewed motivation, energy, and connection with others.
• Relief that feels both immediate and sustainable.

Safety & Oversight

Sessions are conducted by licensed medical and mental-health professionals in a secure, supportive environment.
Low-dose ketamine is administered under medical supervision, with continuous monitoring for safety and comfort.