In quiet rooms that feel more like a wellness retreat than a medical office, a new form of therapy is changing lives. In the last five to six years, intravenous (IV) ketamine, once primarily used as an anesthetic, has been embraced by some as an intervention technique for people struggling with anxiety, addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other mental health challenges.

“Ketamine is an amazing tool to provide quick relief of the most debilitating symptoms, which then gives people hope for greater change,” shared Adam Gremp, the co-founder of NeuConnections Ketamine & Wellness Clinic in Highlands Ranch. A veteran and former first responder, Adam found relief from ketamine and shared how incredible it is to see how people get in touch with their inner healing processes that are often masked by years of enduring the status quo. “With compassionate guidance and support, people are able to safely and confidently address the root causes that have been holding them back,” he said.

Ketamine works by targeting the brain’s glutamate system, rapidly balancing chemicals related to mood and decision making, and by increasing neuroplasticity––the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. “By disrupting rigid patterns of thought and emotion, ketamine offers the opportunity to address trauma in a new, less threatening context,” explained Adam. He further noted that ketamine has been shown to decrease reactivity in the amygdala, the brain’s fear center, allowing for memory integration and processing with less intense fear.

Castle Pines business owner Nick, who had struggled with debilitating anxiety for much of his life, described his experience with ketamine therapy as life changing. On the recommendation of a friend, Nick tried ketamine treatment.

“My anxiety was unfounded and illogical, but terrifying, nonetheless,” said Nick, who admitted the crippling fear led him to abusing alcohol. Following his ketamine infusions, Nick said he no longer needed the crutch of alcohol. For him, the pivotal point was after his third infusion. It was then that he came to the realization that his issues were related to his “I’ve got this” ego mindset and it was weighing him down and impacting his relationships.

“During the sessions, I was able to rise above all the worry; like climbing a ladder in my brain and getting on top of it all to see it from another perspective,” Nick said.

According to Adam, the ketamine allowed Nick to disassociate enough to be able to better analyze his past thoughts and experiences. “I am more compassionate and emotionally present and so much more peaceful now; the fear doesn’t run my life,” said Nick. He has been sober for 16 months.

Research supports Nick’s experience. Clinical studies have shown IV ketamine to be effective in reducing symptoms often within the first few treatments. Unlike traditional antidepressant medications and psychotherapeutic approaches, which may take months and sometimes even years to have an impact, ketamine’s effects are rapid—and in many cases, profound.

However, ketamine is not a magic bullet and comes with risks, including short-term psychological and physical side effects like nausea and temporary changes in blood pressure. And while rare, long-term risks can include bladder issues and cognitive effects, especially with misuse or frequent high-dose use. As with any potential medical intervention, consulting a physician prior to treatment is recommended.

Research points to the necessity of an induction series of six, one-hour treatments over the course of a few weeks followed by boosters as needed. Adam emphasized the importance of working with a clinic that takes a holistic approach, catered to the individual, with guidance, post-session coaching, psychotherapy, support with lifestyle changes, and ongoing engagement for best results and minimal need for return visits.

“The medicine opens the door, but that isn’t enough for lasting change,” Adam concluded. “We have all the wisdom we need within ourselves, we just need the key to find it.”

 

By Terri Wiebold