Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine is an NMDA-receptor antagonist that was originally developed and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an anesthetic. Over the past two decades, however, robust clinical research has established that, at carefully controlled subanesthetic doses, ketamine can produce a fast-onset antidepressant effect. 

Unlike traditional antidepressant medications, which can take four to six weeks to reach full therapeutic effect, ketamine acts on the glutamate system to rapidly support synaptic connectivity, neuroplasticity and mood regulation. This makes it a valuable tool for residents who are experiencing severe depression symptoms, treatment-resistant symptoms and acute suicidal ideation. 

At Sierra Tucson, ketamine therapy is never offered in isolation. It is integrated with our evidence-based and experiential modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), Somatic Experiencing®, individual therapy and group therapy, to deepen insight and support lasting change. 

Ketamine therapy may be appropriate for adults who are suffering from concerns such as: 

• Major depressive disorder, including treatment-resistant depression 
• Chronic depression and persistent depressive disorder 
• Depression associated with bipolar disorder 
• Acute suicidal ideation 
• Postpartum depression 
• Co-occurring depression and substance use disorders 
• Depression associated with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 

Whether ketamine therapy is appropriate for someone is determined on a case-by-case basis through a thorough psychiatric and medical evaluation completed by our clinical team.

At Sierra Tucson, we offer two forms of ketamine therapy. Our medical team selects the most appropriate route based on each resident’s clinical presentation, treatment history, medical status and treatment goals. 

Intranasal Ketamine 

Intranasal ketamine is administered as a nasal spray under the direct supervision of our medical staff. It is delivered in a comfortable, monitored clinical setting. Research has shown that repeated intranasal ketamine produces a fast-onset antidepressant effect in people who have depression. Side effects are typically mild and transient, and they are generally well tolerated. 

This route of administration is noninvasive and suited for residents who may not be candidates for injections or infusions. Intranasal ketamine therapy is integrated naturally into the overall residential treatment experience for individuals who choose to participate. 

Intramuscular Ketamine 

Intramuscular ketamine is administered as a single injection by qualified medical personnel. Clinical evidence indicates that intramuscular ketamine can bring about rapid relief from depression symptoms and suicidal ideation. Its ability to alleviate suicidal ideation is comparable to intravenous (IV) infusion while offering a more accessible and time-efficient delivery method. 

Intramuscular ketamine may be especially appropriate for individuals who are experiencing severe depressive symptoms or acute suicidal thoughts, when timely intervention is important. 

Every resident’s experience is unique at Sierra Tucson, but the overall process generally includes the following: 

• Comprehensive assessment: Before ketamine therapy is recommended, our team completes a thorough psychiatric and medical evaluation. This includes reviewing current medications, medical history, prior use of antidepressants and any symptoms of co-occurring conditions. 

• Informed consent and education: Residents receive clear education about the benefits, risks and expected outcomes of ketamine therapy. Residents have the opportunity to ask questions and make a fully informed decision about their care. 

• Administration in a monitored setting: Ketamine is administered in a quiet, private clinical space. Our team monitors the person’s vital signs throughout the session. Each session typically lasts 45-90 minutes, which includes recovery time. Residents then return to their lodges once they are alert and stable. 

• Integration with ongoing therapy: Some residents report increased openness, introspection and emotional clarity in the hours and days following a ketamine therapy session. Our clinical team helps residents process and integrate those experiences through individual therapy, process groups and experiential modalities, allowing the insights a person gains to support deeper, more meaningful progress. 

• Continuing care planning: Before discharge, residents work with their treatment team to develop a personalized aftercare plan. When clinically appropriate, this plan may include referrals for ongoing ketamine maintenance with a trusted provider in the resident’s home community. 

There are many treatment centers that offer ketamine therapy. What sets Sierra Tucson apart is the depth, integration and clinical sophistication we offer our residents. 

Whole-Person Approach to Care 

The Sierra Tucson Model® outlines our approach to treating the whole person — mind, body and spirit. Ketamine therapy is one tool within a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the underlying causes of depression. 

Dual Accreditation & Licensure 

Sierra Tucson is accredited by The Joint Commission as both an inpatient behavioral health unit and a residential treatment center, which serves as an endorsement of our commitment to clinical excellence and resident safety. 

Multidisciplinary Clinical Team 

Residents who receive ketamine therapy are cared for by a variety of experienced professionals, which can include psychiatrists, addiction medicine specialists, internal medicine physicians, advanced practice nurses and licensed therapists who are trained in trauma-informed, evidence-based care. 

Integration with Leading Therapeutic Modalities 

Ketamine therapy is offered alongside our full continuum of evidence-based and experiential treatments and services, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing®, pain reprocessing therapy, equine-assisted therapy, psychodrama, expressive arts, yoga, meditation and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The specific services a person receives while at Sierra Tucson are determined on an individual basis and outlined in their personalized treatment plan. 

Ketamine therapy is most often considered for residents who have: 

• Tried two or more antidepressant medications without experiencing adequate relief 
• Experienced a major depressive episode but have not responded to conventional treatment 
• Significant suicidal ideation requiring rapid intervention 
• Co-occurring conditions such as PTSD, anxiety or substance use disorders in addition to depression 

Ketamine may not be appropriate for everyone. Residents who have certain cardiovascular conditions, uncontrolled hypertension, active psychosis or specific substance use histories may require alternative approaches to care. Our admissions coordinators and clinical team will work with you to determine whether ketamine therapy may be a good fit for your needs.

If you or someone you love is struggling with treatment-resistant depression or persistent suicidal thoughts, ketamine therapy at Sierra Tucson may offer a meaningful path forward. 

Our admissions coordinators are available to answer your questions, verify insurance benefits and guide you through the next steps. Assessments can be completed seven days a week, and admissions coordinators are available after hours so that you always have the ability to speak to a caring professional. 

Contact us today to take the next step on your healing journey.