Hi June,

Ketamine's role in psychiatric treatment, particularly for trauma and PTSD, is primarily centered on its direct effects on the brain's functioning. When administered, ketamine can influence neurotransmitter pathways, which in turn may help alleviate symptoms of depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions by modifying the brain's response to stress and trauma. This effect is primarily biochemical, rooted in ketamine's interaction with NMDA receptors in the brain, which play a crucial role in mood regulation and stress response.

In the context of therapy for traumatic events, ketamine is sometimes used in conjunction with psychotherapy. This approach, known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, involves administering ketamine to help ease psychological barriers and facilitate a more receptive state for therapy. During these sessions, the patient may find it easier to access and process traumatic memories. The therapist guides the patient through these memories, helping them to understand and reframe their experiences. This process is not about directly revisiting the traumatic event in a literal sense, but rather about accessing the emotions and thoughts associated with the event in a therapeutic setting, supported by the effects of ketamine on the brain.