
Ketamine-Assisted Therapy
(KAT) in New York
For those struggling with persistent depression, anxiety, or the deep impact of trauma, traditional talk therapy may sometimes feel insufficient. If you sense that you need a profound shift in perspective to move beyond stagnation, Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAT) offers a powerful, evidence-based path toward healing and transformation.
KAT utilizes the medicine ketamine—a safe, legal, and widely used anesthetic—to facilitate profound psychological experiences. When combined with specialized psychotherapy, KAT can accelerate the healing process and open doorways to deeper meaning.

What is Ketamine-Assisted Therapy (KAT)?
KAT is a holistic modality that combines the neurobiological effects of ketamine with therapeutic support and integration.
Unlike traditional psychiatric medications that often require daily use and may only blunt symptoms, ketamine works differently. It enhances neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and create new neural pathways.
During a KAT session, the medicine helps temporarily soften the brain's default patterns and defense mechanisms (sometimes referred to as the ego). This often induces a non-ordinary state of consciousness, allowing for profound introspection, emotional release, and the exploration of challenging material from a new, more detached perspective.
Conditions Supported by KAT
KAT has shown significant promise in supporting individuals navigating:
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Treatment-Resistant Depression
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Severe Anxiety and Rumination
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Trauma and PTSD
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Existential Crisis and Stagnation
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The Fear of Death and Dying
Our Collaborative Care Model with Journey Clinic
We offer flexible options to suit your needs, comfort level, and location within New York State.
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The Medical Component (Journey Clinic)
Journey Clinic's specialized medical team manages all medical aspects. This includes the intake consultation to assess eligibility, the development of a personalized treatment plan, the prescription of the ketamine (sublingual lozenges mailed directly to your home), and ongoing medical monitoring.
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The Therapeutic Component (Igor Light, LMHC)
I manage the psychotherapy framework. This involves the initial referral, preparation sessions, support and supervision during the dosing sessions, and the crucial post-session integration work.
KAT Modalities Available Across New York
We offer flexible options to suit your needs, comfort level, and location within New York State.
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In-Person (Rochester, NY)
The therapist and client meet in person at my Rochester office for the KAT session. This modality provides the highest level of direct support and is available for individuals or couples.
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Remote (Online via Zoom)
The therapist and client meet via a secure Zoom connection for the KAT session. This offers accessibility for clients across NYS and is available for individuals or couples.
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Self-Guided (Hybrid Model)
In certain cases, after an established therapeutic relationship and initial supervised sessions, clients may opt for a self-guided dosing session at home with a therapist check-in immediately before and after. This modality strictly requires a trusted in-person chaperone (a friend or family member) to be present with the client during the session for safety.
The KAT Process: Step-by-Step
The KAT process is structured to ensure safety, comfort, and maximize the potential for growth.
1. Initial Consultation and Referral
After our initial consultation, if we determine that KAT may be beneficial for you, I will submit a referral form through the secure Journey Clinic portal on your behalf.
2. Medical Intake
You will then attend an intake consultation with the Journey Clinic medical team (via telehealth). They will conduct a thorough assessment to determine if you are medically eligible for KAT.
3. Treatment Plan and Prescription
If eligible, you will receive a personalized treatment plan and dosing strategy. The sublingual ketamine prescription will be processed and mailed directly to your home.
4. Preparation Sessions (1-2 Weeks Prior)
Before the first dosing session, we will meet for at least one (often more) preparation session. These sessions are crucial for clarifying your intentions, establishing a strong therapeutic alliance, discussing the process, and preparing you for the experience.
5. The Dosing Session (2-3 Hours)
During the dosing session, you will take your vitals (if remote) and self-administer the ketamine lozenge under my guidance. I will be present throughout the session (see Modalities below) to provide support, ensure safety, and facilitate the therapeutic process. Clients often listen to curated music and wear an eye mask to support an inward journey.
6. Integration Sessions (Within 1 Week After)
We will meet shortly after the dosing session (usually within 24-48 hours). This is the most crucial phase, where we process the experience and translate the insights gained into lasting changes in your life.
7. Follow-Up and Continuation
A typical course of treatment involves multiple cycles of dosing and integration. You will also have brief (30-minute) follow-up consultations with the Journey Clinic medical team for prescription refills and outcome monitoring.
Fees and Insurance
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KAT is a specialized, private-pay service.
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The psychotherapy components of KAT (preparation, the extended dosing session, and integration) are generally not covered by standard insurance plans (Aetna, Optum, Carelon).
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You will pay Journey Clinic directly for the medical consultation and the cost of the medicine. You will pay me directly for the psychotherapy services.
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We offer KAT in structured packages to ensure commitment to the full therapeutic process. Please contact me for detailed information on package pricing.
Explore if KAT is Right for You
This journey requires courage and commitment. If you are feeling stuck and are ready to explore a deeper, transformative approach to healing, I invite you to reach out. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your needs, ask questions about the KAT process, and determine if this path is right for you. Read More about the Free Consultation
In-Person KAT in Rochester, NY For those who prefer in-person support, KAT dosing and integration sessions are available at my office in Rochester, NY.
Online KAT Services We offer Ketamine-Assisted Therapy online to clients located anywhere in New York State, utilizing the secure telehealth platform and our partnership with Journey Clinic.

15 min
Free
