Ketamine Assisted

Psychotherapy (KAP)

Guided by values of integrity, inclusivity, and accessibility, we strive to create a supportive environment where every patient can access their inner strength and find their natural flow. We are so proud to be part of the community and to be able to bring Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy for Mental Health to Ottawa, Canada

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Overview

At FlowState Therapy, we offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) in Ottawa as a transformative approach to treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Backed by research, KAP combines the therapeutic benefits of ketamine with professional psychotherapy to promote healing and deeper mental well-being. *Studies have shown that up to 70% of individuals with treatment-resistant depression may experience relief from symptoms within 24 hours of a ketamine session .

How it works

  • 1

    Book an Information Call:

    The process typically begins with a 15-20 minutes information call. During this call, potential clients can ask questions about KAP, how it works, and whether it may be the right option for them.

    Feel Free to call us during office hours.

  • 2

    Nurse Practitioner Consultation:

    If the client is interested and suitable for KAP, the next step is a comprehensive consultation with a Nurse Practitioner (NP).

    During this session the NP will perform a full medical and psychiatric assessment, reviewing the client’s mental health history, current medications, and any medical conditions.

  • 3

    Booking the First Sessions:

    Upon approval from the NP, clients can schedule their initial treatment sessions. This typically includes:

    Planning 4-6 sessions, each spaced a few days to weeks apart depending on the individual’s needs and response to treatment. The schedule can vary based on the condition being treated, the patient's response, and overall goals.

How is the ketamine administered? How does it feel?

Ketamine is administered either orally or intranasally in a safe, monitored setting. It works by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, such as glutamate, creating rapid mood changes, enhancing neuroplasticity, and supporting a mind-body connection that allows for breakthroughs in therapy . Research indicates that ketamine can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety significantly faster than traditional antidepressants. Our clients frequently report feeling more connected, open, and capable of processing emotions they previously found difficult to access during regular therapy.

What happens during the ketamine session?

Preparation Phase

This phase is crucial for setting the tone and ensuring a safe, therapeutic experience. It involves:

  • Building Trust & Setting Intentions: The therapist works with the client to develop trust, discuss the client’s history, and set intentions for the ketamine sessions. This includes exploring what the client wants to gain, their goals for therapy, and how they hope to engage with the experience.

  • Education & Grounding Techniques: Clients are educated on what to expect during the session, potential experiences, and how ketamine works to support the therapeutic process. Grounding techniques, breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices may be taught to help the client navigate the upcoming experience.

Active Treatment Phase

The active phase is when the ketamine is administered, and the therapeutic experience takes place:

  • Administration of Ketamine: Ketamine is typically given via oral dissolving tablets or intranasal spray in a comfortable, safe clinical environment. The client may start to feel the effects within minutes to half an hour, depending on the route of administration.

  • Guided Therapeutic Experience: A trained therapist is present throughout the session to provide support, guidance, and ensure the client feels safe. This is a crucial period for introspection, emotional processing, and engaging with the altered state of consciousness brought on by the ketamine.

  • Emotional and Somatic Processing: Clients might experience profound insights, emotional release, or altered perceptions. The therapist’s role is to help the client process what arises, maintain a sense of security, and facilitate deeper understanding or connection.

Integration Phase

The integration phase focuses on making sense of and applying the experiences and insights gained during the ketamine session to everyday life:

  • Post-Session Reflection & Discussion: After the effects of ketamine wear off, the client and therapist have a debriefing session. They discuss what the client experienced, felt, or saw, and how those experiences relate to their therapeutic goals.

  • Application to Daily Life: The therapist helps the client translate any insights or emotional releases into practical steps for their life. This may involve creating strategies for behavior change, addressing underlying issues uncovered during the session, and planning for future sessions.

  • Ongoing Support & Reinforcement: Clients may be given tools or exercises (such as journaling, mindfulness practices, or therapeutic assignments) to continue exploring and reinforcing the insights gained from the ketamine experience. The integration phase is critical for long-term growth and healing, ensuring that the therapeutic benefits of KAP are sustained.

This structured approach helps create a safe, supportive, and transformative experience, ensuring that each phase of KAP builds on the previous one for holistic healing and growth.

After treatment

Post-Treatment Review

After the initial set of sessions, there will be a follow-up assessment to evaluate the client’s progress, review the effects of the treatment, and determine any next steps. Some clients may achieve significant relief after these initial sessions, while others may need additional support.

Maintenance Sessions

For many clients, the benefits of KAP are long-lasting. However, some may require maintenance sessions periodically to sustain the therapeutic gains. This could mean returning for booster sessions every few weeks or months, depending on individual needs and progress.

Tailored to Individual Needs

The entire treatment plan is personalized, considering each client’s unique mental health journey and goals. Throughout the process, open communication and collaboration with the care team ensure that treatment remains flexible and effective for each individual's needs.

Is KAP Right for you?

If you’ve struggled with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health conditions, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy might be the next step in your healing journey. KAP is especially beneficial for those who have found traditional therapies to be ineffective or slow-acting. The supportive presence of a therapist throughout the session ensures that you have a companion in your healing process, guiding you toward meaningful insights and sustainable change.

Key Benefits of KAP:

  • Rapid relief from symptoms

  • Enhanced neuroplasticity for deeper therapeutic change

  • A guided, safe experience with professional support

  • Potential to reduce suicidal ideation and improve quality of life

We welcome patients from Ottawa/Gatineau and across Canada to explore this therapeutic modality and start their journey toward healing and wellness.

We work with you and your insurance company to get you the best coverage possible.

Insurance Coverage

Some insurers we’ve worked with:

  • Veterans Affairs and PCVRS

  • Canada Life

  • Medavie Blue Cross

  • Sunlife

  • Green Shield,

  • Equitable Life of Canada,

  • Pacific Blue Cross

  • Manulife

    And more!

Meet the Team

Our team is made up of dedicated mental health professionals who are passionate about helping you experience meaningful change and improved well-being. With diverse backgrounds in psychotherapy, medicine, and holistic care, our therapists and medical staff bring years of experience to support your journey. At FlowState Therapy, we believe in personalized, compassionate care, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.

The

Clinic

A beautiful and carefully designed space. A true retreat in the heart of Ottawa’s Downtown district.

We are consciously working on opening our space to our community for workshops, support groups and events to support mental health and wellness in Ottawa.

Schedule a Call

We offer a free 15 minute consultation to learn more about our treatments here.

Get in touch.

We can’t wait to hear from you!

give us call
613 - 670 - 6629

or send us an email
hello@
flowstatetherapy.ca

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No referral is necessary to begin your journey with KAP. Simply reach out to our team to schedule a consultation and discuss your mental health needs and an NP will determine your eligibility.

  • The total cost of your ketamine therapy treatment varies based on your individual treatment plan.

    Here is a guide to our general pricing.

  • The therapy portion of your treatment can be covered by your insurer. This accounts for up to 70% of the treatment cost. We work very hard in helping you get the coverage you need. Call us to find out more.

  • Yes, Ketamine assisted psychotherapy is both safe and legal in Canada when administered under clinical supervision. At Flow State Therapy, we follow strict safety protocols to ensure every session is conducted responsibly.

  • We offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including:

    • Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for mental health

    • Ketamine for pain management

    • Trauma-focused therapies like EMDR and Somatic Therapy

    • Support for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more

  • If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure, ketamine therapy can provide clarity and relief. Contact us for a free 15-minute call to discuss your needs and see if we’re a good fit.

  • While you can’t book ketamine therapy sessions directly online, you can schedule an information call or consultation through our website. From there, we’ll help you arrange the next steps.

  • We are located at… steps from the downtown core and conveniently close to public transit.

  • Yes, a licensed therapist will be with you throughout the entire session to ensure safety, provide support, and guide your therapeutic experience.

  • At Flow State Therapy, we specialize in evidence-based ketamine treatments tailored to each client’s needs. Our compassionate team offers personalized care in a safe, supportive environment, helping you achieve meaningful progress.n