Substance Use and Addiction Disorders
Suboxone (Buprenorphine)
International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and national health authorities recommend buprenorphine as a first-line treatment for OUD due to its effectiveness, safety, and feasibility in various healthcare settings.
​
-
Reduction of Cravings and Withdrawal Symptoms: Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to opioid receptors in the brain to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without producing the same intense high as full agonists like heroin or oxycodone.
​
-
Stabilization of Opioid Dependence: It helps to stabilize individuals with OUD by preventing opioid withdrawal symptoms, allowing them to function normally without the need for illicit opioids.
​
-
Reduction in Illicit Opioid Use: Treatment with buprenorphine has been shown to significantly decrease the use of illicit opioids, reducing the risk of overdose and other associated harms.
​
-
Lower Risk of Infectious Diseases: By reducing injection drug use and risky behaviors associated with obtaining illicit opioids, buprenorphine treatment can lower the risk of infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C.
Benefits of Buprenorphine in Opioid Use Disorder:
-
What does the test set-up look like?The test equipment consists your PC or Mac with a web camera which you can access online in the conform of your home. A link will be sent to you by your physician when it is time for you take your test. You can do so on your own time and convenience. When the time comes for you to take that test it is recommended that: You are in a quiet room with no distractions Any windows and blinds are closed Clutter or any visual distractions are removed All other electronic devices are turned off People in close proximity to the test room to remain quiet Give you a seated stool without wheels or armrests (so excess movement is not recorded)
-
Why test for ADHD?Adding objective ADHD technology can help to: 1. Improve diagnostic accuracy 2. Shorten time to diagnosis 3. Capture treatment response not reflected by rating scales
-
What is QbCheck?QbCheck is an FDA-cleared test measuring all 3 core symptom domains; hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. QbCheck is used when evaluating ADHD symptoms and measuring response to ADHD treatment. QbCheck involves a 15 or 20-minute computer-based task that measures your (or your child’s) ability to maintain attention and impulse control. Meanwhile, an your computer’s camera tracks movements, and therefore activity, during the test. The results are based on a comparison of your (or your child’s) performance with data from other people of the same sex and age who do not have ADHD
-
What should you expect?A diagnostic assessment for ADHD involves three main parts: gathering a clinical history through an interview with your provider, an objective measurement of symptoms using QbTest, and the completion of one or more rating scales.
-
What are the potential side effects of Vivitrol?Common side effects of Vivitrol may include injection site reactions, nausea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. It is important to discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider.
-
How effective is Vivitrol in treating alcohol and opioid use disorders?Clinical studies have shown that Vivitrol can help reduce cravings, decrease alcohol consumption, and prevent relapse in individuals with AUD. Similarly, Vivitrol has been shown to reduce opioid use and prevent relapse in individuals with OUD.
-
Who is a good candidate for Vivitrol?Vivitrol may be suitable for individuals with AUD or OUD who are motivated to achieve and maintain sobriety. It is important to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if Vivitrol is appropriate for you.
-
How does Vivitrol work?Vivitrol works by blocking the effects of opioids or alcohol in the brain. It binds to opioid receptors, preventing the rewarding effects of opioids and reducing cravings for alcohol.
-
Is Vivitrol covered by insurance?Coverage for Vivitrol may vary depending on your insurance plan. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
-
What is Vivitrol?Vivitrol is a medication that contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. It is administered as a once-monthly injection and is used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD).
-
Is Vivitrol addictive?No, Vivitrol is not addictive. It does not produce euphoria or dependence, making it a safe and effective option for individuals seeking treatment for AUD or OUD.
-
Can Vivitrol be used in combination with other treatments?Yes, Vivitrol can be used in combination with counseling, behavioral therapies, and other supportive treatments as part of a comprehensive approach to recovery from substance use disorders.
-
How long should I stay on Vivitrol treatment?The duration of Vivitrol treatment can vary depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific circumstances.
-
How is Vivitrol administered?Vivitrol is administered as a once-monthly intramuscular injection, typically into the gluteal muscle. It should only be administered by a healthcare professional.
-
How long should I take Suboxone?The duration of Suboxone treatment varies depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Some individuals may use Suboxone for short-term detoxification, while others may benefit from long-term maintenance therapy. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific circumstances.
-
What is Suboxone?Suboxone is a medication used in the treatment of opioid dependence. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist.
-
Who is a good candidate for Suboxone treatment?Suboxone treatment is typically recommended for individuals who are dependent on opioids and are motivated to overcome their addiction. It can be used for both short-term detoxification and long-term maintenance therapy.
-
Is Suboxone covered by insurance?Coverage for Suboxone may vary depending on your insurance plan. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs associated with Suboxone treatment.
-
Is counseling required with Suboxone treatment?Counseling and behavioral therapy are often recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for opioid dependence. They can help address the underlying psychological, social, and behavioral factors contributing to addiction and support long-term recovery. Many providers of Suboxone treatment will require or strongly recommend counseling in conjunction with medication.
-
What are the benefits of Suboxone treatment?Suboxone helps reduce cravings for opioids and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to abstain from opioid use. It also has a lower risk of respiratory depression and overdose compared to full opioid agonists.
-
Are there any side effects of Suboxone?Common side effects of Suboxone may include nausea, headache, constipation, sweating, and insomnia. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, it's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
-
Can I become addicted to Suboxone?Suboxone has a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to full opioid agonists. When used as prescribed under the supervision of a healthcare provider, the risk of addiction to Suboxone is minimal. However, it's important to follow your treatment plan carefully and avoid misuse.
-
How is Suboxone administered?Suboxone is usually taken as a sublingual film or tablet placed under the tongue. It is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. The dosage and frequency of Suboxone administration are determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to treatment.
-
How does Suboxone work?Buprenorphine in Suboxone works by attaching to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, but it produces weaker effects, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is added to deter misuse; if Suboxone is injected, the naloxone can precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
-
Where are you located?We are located at 15100 Washington St. Suite 103, Haymarket, Virginia 20169. We also serve patients throughout the state of Virginia via telehealth.
-
Do you see patients of all ages?We accept patients ages 14 and up. However, for adolescents (<18) we require active engagement with a counselor/therapist. This is to ensure that non-medication treatment options are being thoroughly exhausted. We are happy to be your first stop to provide an assessment and referral to an appropriate therapist.
-
What is a Physician Assistant (PA)?PA' s are trained to conduct psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and perform psychotherapy. While PAs work under the supervision of a physician, they often have a considerable degree of autonomy and are able to make clinical decisions independently within their scope of practice.
-
Will my visit be telehealth or in-person?You choose. We would like to make mental health care more convenient and accessible, which is why we offer both in-office or telehealth services. You'll simply click on a link to a HIPPA-compliant video conferencing application using your computer or phone.
-
Do you offer psychotherapy, aka talk-therapy?Our providers are trained in various psychotherapy modalities and will integrate these strategies into almost all visits, however our primary focus is medication management. For individuals who benefit from psychotherapy alone (without medications) or those who require more extensive or advanced psychotherapy, you will be referred within our network of trusted therapists who can provide the specific support that you need.
-
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized training in mental health care. PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with psychiatric disorders. PMHNPs conduct psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and offer psychotherapy to provide comprehensive care.
-
What are your 'self-pay' rates if I am not covered by one of the insurance companies you've listed?For our out-of-network patients, you will be responsible for paying our "self-pay" rates. After our visit we will provide you with an invoice or "super bill", which you can submit to your insurance company. Some insurance companies will reimburse you, some will not. We recommend you check with your insurance company. Our rates are as follows: -Comprehensive Initial Evaluation- $250 (New patients) -Medication Management, Follow-Up Visit- $150 (Established patients)
-
What area(s) do you serve?Our clinic is located in Haymarket, Virginia. We love to serve our immediate community and surrounding areas, but we are also able to serve people anywhere in Virginia via telehealth.
-
Do you take insurance?We are currently in-network with the following insurance companies/plans: -Aetna -Anthem BlueCross BlueShield -Anthem HealthKeepers Plus -CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield -Cigna -Federal Employee Plan, BlueCross BlueShield -United HealthCare -Virginia Medicaid Plans. Please call 571-556-8205 to inquire about your specific managed-care organization (MCO) For our out-of-network patients, you will be responsible for paying our "self-pay" rates. After our visit we will provide you with an invoice or "super bill", which you can submit to your insurance company. Some insurance companies will reimburse you, some will not. We recommend you check with your insurance company. Our rates are as follows: -Comprehensive Initial Evaluation- $250 (New patients) -Medication Management, follow-up visit- $150 (Established patients)
-
What are your office hours?Our hours are flexible and vary to better accommodate as many people as possible. Please check our online booking link to view availability, as it is subject to change. While we are not a crisis center, sometimes people need same-day appointments. We will try to accommodate this for existing patients if you send us a message through your patient portal.
-
Are you accepting new patients?Yes, please use online booking tool or call to check our availability. If you would like to use your insurance, please check the FAQ- "Do you accept insurance?" as we will be updating regularly.
-
8. How soon can I expect to feel the effects of ketamine therapy?Many individuals experience rapid antidepressant effects within hours to days after a ketamine infusion or injection. However, the timeline may vary from person to person, and some individuals may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.
-
2. How does ketamine work for mental health conditions?Ketamine works by modulating neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly glutamate, which plays a key role in mood regulation. It is believed to promote the growth of new synaptic connections and enhance neural plasticity, leading to rapid antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
-
1. What is ketamine therapy?Ketamine therapy involves the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, as a treatment for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder. Ketamine can be administered via intravenous (IV) infusion or intramuscular (IM) injection under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider.
-
4. Is ketamine therapy safe?Ketamine therapy is generally considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals in a controlled clinical setting. However, like any medical treatment, it carries potential risks and side effects, which will be thoroughly discussed with you before starting treatment.
-
6. How many ketamine sessions will I need?The number of ketamine therapy sessions needed varies depending on individual response, the severity of symptoms, and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
-
3. What conditions can ketamine therapy treat?Ketamine therapy has shown promising results in treating treatment-resistant depression, severe anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar depression. It may also be beneficial for individuals experiencing acute suicidal ideation or those who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications.
-
5. Will insurance cover ketamine therapy?While insurance may cover FDA-approved ketamine nasal spray (Spravato) for the treatment of depression, it typically does not cover intravenous ketamine therapy for psychiatric indications. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify coverage details and discuss potential reimbursement options.
-
10. Is ketamine therapy right for me?Ketamine therapy may be a suitable option for individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. If you are considering ketamine therapy, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers to discuss your treatment options and determine if ketamine therapy is right for you.
-
7. What can I expect during a ketamine therapy session?Ketamine therapy sessions typically last for a designated period, during which you will receive the medication via intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection. You will be closely monitored throughout the session to ensure your safety and comfort.
-
9. Are there any potential side effects of ketamine therapy?Common side effects of ketamine therapy may include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate, and changes in blood pressure. These side effects are usually transient and resolve shortly after the infusion or injection.
Vivitrol (Naltrexone)
The efficacy of Vivitrol (naltrexone) in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD) is supported by numerous clinical trials and research studies. Some major research findings include:
Vivitrol for Alcohol Use Disorder:
​
-
The COMBINE Study: This landmark clinical trial, conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), evaluated the effectiveness of various treatments for AUD, including Vivitrol. It found that Vivitrol was effective in reducing heavy drinking days and increasing periods of abstinence when compared to placebo.
​
-
A Multi-Site, Open-Label Study: This study assessed the safety and efficacy of Vivitrol in patients with AUD. It found that Vivitrol treatment was associated with a reduction in heavy drinking days and improved overall drinking outcomes.
Vivitrol for Opioid Use Disorder:
​
-
The COMBINE Study Extension: In an extension of the COMBINE Study, researchers investigated the long-term efficacy of Vivitrol in individuals with OUD. They found that Vivitrol was effective in preventing relapse to opioid use and improving treatment outcomes over an extended period.
​
-
A Randomized Controlled Trial: This study compared Vivitrol to other medications for OUD, such as methadone and buprenorphine. It found that Vivitrol was non-inferior to these medications in terms of reducing opioid use and preventing relapse.
​
-
Real-World Observational Studies: Several real-world studies have evaluated the effectiveness of Vivitrol in clinical practice settings. These studies have consistently demonstrated the benefits of Vivitrol in reducing opioid use, preventing relapse, and improving treatment retention.
​
Overall, the research supporting Vivitrol's efficacy in the treatment of AUD and OUD underscores its role as an important therapeutic option for individuals seeking recovery from substance use disorders. These findings provide robust evidence for the use of Vivitrol as part of a comprehensive treatment approach that includes counseling, behavioral therapies, and other supportive interventions.
-
What does the test set-up look like?The test equipment consists your PC or Mac with a web camera which you can access online in the conform of your home. A link will be sent to you by your physician when it is time for you take your test. You can do so on your own time and convenience. When the time comes for you to take that test it is recommended that: You are in a quiet room with no distractions Any windows and blinds are closed Clutter or any visual distractions are removed All other electronic devices are turned off People in close proximity to the test room to remain quiet Give you a seated stool without wheels or armrests (so excess movement is not recorded)
-
Why test for ADHD?Adding objective ADHD technology can help to: 1. Improve diagnostic accuracy 2. Shorten time to diagnosis 3. Capture treatment response not reflected by rating scales
-
What is QbCheck?QbCheck is an FDA-cleared test measuring all 3 core symptom domains; hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. QbCheck is used when evaluating ADHD symptoms and measuring response to ADHD treatment. QbCheck involves a 15 or 20-minute computer-based task that measures your (or your child’s) ability to maintain attention and impulse control. Meanwhile, an your computer’s camera tracks movements, and therefore activity, during the test. The results are based on a comparison of your (or your child’s) performance with data from other people of the same sex and age who do not have ADHD
-
What should you expect?A diagnostic assessment for ADHD involves three main parts: gathering a clinical history through an interview with your provider, an objective measurement of symptoms using QbTest, and the completion of one or more rating scales.
-
What are the potential side effects of Vivitrol?Common side effects of Vivitrol may include injection site reactions, nausea, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. It is important to discuss any concerns about side effects with your healthcare provider.
-
How effective is Vivitrol in treating alcohol and opioid use disorders?Clinical studies have shown that Vivitrol can help reduce cravings, decrease alcohol consumption, and prevent relapse in individuals with AUD. Similarly, Vivitrol has been shown to reduce opioid use and prevent relapse in individuals with OUD.
-
Who is a good candidate for Vivitrol?Vivitrol may be suitable for individuals with AUD or OUD who are motivated to achieve and maintain sobriety. It is important to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to determine if Vivitrol is appropriate for you.
-
How does Vivitrol work?Vivitrol works by blocking the effects of opioids or alcohol in the brain. It binds to opioid receptors, preventing the rewarding effects of opioids and reducing cravings for alcohol.
-
Is Vivitrol covered by insurance?Coverage for Vivitrol may vary depending on your insurance plan. It is recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs.
-
What is Vivitrol?Vivitrol is a medication that contains naltrexone, an opioid antagonist. It is administered as a once-monthly injection and is used in the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD).
-
Is Vivitrol addictive?No, Vivitrol is not addictive. It does not produce euphoria or dependence, making it a safe and effective option for individuals seeking treatment for AUD or OUD.
-
Can Vivitrol be used in combination with other treatments?Yes, Vivitrol can be used in combination with counseling, behavioral therapies, and other supportive treatments as part of a comprehensive approach to recovery from substance use disorders.
-
How long should I stay on Vivitrol treatment?The duration of Vivitrol treatment can vary depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific circumstances.
-
How is Vivitrol administered?Vivitrol is administered as a once-monthly intramuscular injection, typically into the gluteal muscle. It should only be administered by a healthcare professional.
-
How long should I take Suboxone?The duration of Suboxone treatment varies depending on individual needs and treatment goals. Some individuals may use Suboxone for short-term detoxification, while others may benefit from long-term maintenance therapy. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific circumstances.
-
What is Suboxone?Suboxone is a medication used in the treatment of opioid dependence. It contains two active ingredients: buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist.
-
Who is a good candidate for Suboxone treatment?Suboxone treatment is typically recommended for individuals who are dependent on opioids and are motivated to overcome their addiction. It can be used for both short-term detoxification and long-term maintenance therapy.
-
Is Suboxone covered by insurance?Coverage for Suboxone may vary depending on your insurance plan. It's recommended to check with your insurance provider to determine coverage and any potential out-of-pocket costs associated with Suboxone treatment.
-
Is counseling required with Suboxone treatment?Counseling and behavioral therapy are often recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for opioid dependence. They can help address the underlying psychological, social, and behavioral factors contributing to addiction and support long-term recovery. Many providers of Suboxone treatment will require or strongly recommend counseling in conjunction with medication.
-
What are the benefits of Suboxone treatment?Suboxone helps reduce cravings for opioids and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for individuals to abstain from opioid use. It also has a lower risk of respiratory depression and overdose compared to full opioid agonists.
-
Are there any side effects of Suboxone?Common side effects of Suboxone may include nausea, headache, constipation, sweating, and insomnia. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, it's important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
-
Can I become addicted to Suboxone?Suboxone has a lower potential for abuse and dependence compared to full opioid agonists. When used as prescribed under the supervision of a healthcare provider, the risk of addiction to Suboxone is minimal. However, it's important to follow your treatment plan carefully and avoid misuse.
-
How is Suboxone administered?Suboxone is usually taken as a sublingual film or tablet placed under the tongue. It is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. The dosage and frequency of Suboxone administration are determined by a healthcare provider based on individual needs and response to treatment.
-
How does Suboxone work?Buprenorphine in Suboxone works by attaching to the same receptors in the brain as opioids, but it produces weaker effects, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is added to deter misuse; if Suboxone is injected, the naloxone can precipitate withdrawal symptoms.
-
Where are you located?We are located at 15100 Washington St. Suite 103, Haymarket, Virginia 20169. We also serve patients throughout the state of Virginia via telehealth.
-
Do you see patients of all ages?We accept patients ages 14 and up. However, for adolescents (<18) we require active engagement with a counselor/therapist. This is to ensure that non-medication treatment options are being thoroughly exhausted. We are happy to be your first stop to provide an assessment and referral to an appropriate therapist.
-
What is a Physician Assistant (PA)?PA' s are trained to conduct psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental illnesses, develop treatment plans, prescribe medications, and perform psychotherapy. While PAs work under the supervision of a physician, they often have a considerable degree of autonomy and are able to make clinical decisions independently within their scope of practice.
-
Will my visit be telehealth or in-person?You choose. We would like to make mental health care more convenient and accessible, which is why we offer both in-office or telehealth services. You'll simply click on a link to a HIPPA-compliant video conferencing application using your computer or phone.
-
Do you offer psychotherapy, aka talk-therapy?Our providers are trained in various psychotherapy modalities and will integrate these strategies into almost all visits, however our primary focus is medication management. For individuals who benefit from psychotherapy alone (without medications) or those who require more extensive or advanced psychotherapy, you will be referred within our network of trusted therapists who can provide the specific support that you need.
-
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized training in mental health care. PMHNPs assess, diagnose, and treat individuals with psychiatric disorders. PMHNPs conduct psychiatric evaluations, prescribe medications, and offer psychotherapy to provide comprehensive care.
-
What are your 'self-pay' rates if I am not covered by one of the insurance companies you've listed?For our out-of-network patients, you will be responsible for paying our "self-pay" rates. After our visit we will provide you with an invoice or "super bill", which you can submit to your insurance company. Some insurance companies will reimburse you, some will not. We recommend you check with your insurance company. Our rates are as follows: -Comprehensive Initial Evaluation- $250 (New patients) -Medication Management, Follow-Up Visit- $150 (Established patients)
-
What area(s) do you serve?Our clinic is located in Haymarket, Virginia. We love to serve our immediate community and surrounding areas, but we are also able to serve people anywhere in Virginia via telehealth.
-
Do you take insurance?We are currently in-network with the following insurance companies/plans: -Aetna -Anthem BlueCross BlueShield -Anthem HealthKeepers Plus -CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield -Cigna -Federal Employee Plan, BlueCross BlueShield -United HealthCare -Virginia Medicaid Plans. Please call 571-556-8205 to inquire about your specific managed-care organization (MCO) For our out-of-network patients, you will be responsible for paying our "self-pay" rates. After our visit we will provide you with an invoice or "super bill", which you can submit to your insurance company. Some insurance companies will reimburse you, some will not. We recommend you check with your insurance company. Our rates are as follows: -Comprehensive Initial Evaluation- $250 (New patients) -Medication Management, follow-up visit- $150 (Established patients)
-
What are your office hours?Our hours are flexible and vary to better accommodate as many people as possible. Please check our online booking link to view availability, as it is subject to change. While we are not a crisis center, sometimes people need same-day appointments. We will try to accommodate this for existing patients if you send us a message through your patient portal.
-
Are you accepting new patients?Yes, please use online booking tool or call to check our availability. If you would like to use your insurance, please check the FAQ- "Do you accept insurance?" as we will be updating regularly.
-
8. How soon can I expect to feel the effects of ketamine therapy?Many individuals experience rapid antidepressant effects within hours to days after a ketamine infusion or injection. However, the timeline may vary from person to person, and some individuals may require multiple sessions to achieve optimal results.
-
2. How does ketamine work for mental health conditions?Ketamine works by modulating neurotransmitter systems in the brain, particularly glutamate, which plays a key role in mood regulation. It is believed to promote the growth of new synaptic connections and enhance neural plasticity, leading to rapid antidepressant and anxiolytic effects.
-
1. What is ketamine therapy?Ketamine therapy involves the use of ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, as a treatment for various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and bipolar disorder. Ketamine can be administered via intravenous (IV) infusion or intramuscular (IM) injection under the supervision of a trained healthcare provider.
-
4. Is ketamine therapy safe?Ketamine therapy is generally considered safe when administered by trained healthcare professionals in a controlled clinical setting. However, like any medical treatment, it carries potential risks and side effects, which will be thoroughly discussed with you before starting treatment.
-
6. How many ketamine sessions will I need?The number of ketamine therapy sessions needed varies depending on individual response, the severity of symptoms, and treatment goals. Your healthcare provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
-
3. What conditions can ketamine therapy treat?Ketamine therapy has shown promising results in treating treatment-resistant depression, severe anxiety, PTSD, and bipolar depression. It may also be beneficial for individuals experiencing acute suicidal ideation or those who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications.
-
5. Will insurance cover ketamine therapy?While insurance may cover FDA-approved ketamine nasal spray (Spravato) for the treatment of depression, it typically does not cover intravenous ketamine therapy for psychiatric indications. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to verify coverage details and discuss potential reimbursement options.
-
10. Is ketamine therapy right for me?Ketamine therapy may be a suitable option for individuals who have not responded to traditional treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. If you are considering ketamine therapy, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers to discuss your treatment options and determine if ketamine therapy is right for you.
-
7. What can I expect during a ketamine therapy session?Ketamine therapy sessions typically last for a designated period, during which you will receive the medication via intravenous infusion or intramuscular injection. You will be closely monitored throughout the session to ensure your safety and comfort.
-
9. Are there any potential side effects of ketamine therapy?Common side effects of ketamine therapy may include dissociation, dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate, and changes in blood pressure. These side effects are usually transient and resolve shortly after the infusion or injection.
Substance Abuse Counseling
We recognize that addressing substance use disorders requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond medication alone. That's why we emphasize the importance of combining medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with individual and group substance abuse counseling to support our patients on their journey to lasting recovery.
​
Why Counseling Matters
Substance abuse counseling plays a crucial role in addressing the underlying psychological, social, and behavioral factors contributing to addiction. Counseling provides individuals with the opportunity to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors related to substance use in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
​
The Benefits of Combined Treatment
By integrating counseling with medication-assisted treatment, we can address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction simultaneously. This holistic approach not only helps individuals manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms more effectively but also equips them with the coping skills and strategies needed to navigate triggers, stressors, and life challenges without resorting to substance use.
​
Our Collaborative Approach
At Conquest Health, we believe in the power of collaboration. Our practice coordinates closely with experienced substance abuse counselors and therapists to ensure that our patients receive comprehensive and personalized care. Through close communication and shared treatment goals, we strive to provide our patients with the highest quality of care and support throughout their recovery journey.