55. How Ketamine-Assisted Therapy Rewires the Brain

What does it mean to “reset” the brain—and how long does it last? In this episode of The High Guide, host April Pride is joined by Dr. Bridget Carnahan, Kaia Roman, and Lauren Swanson to unpack the neurochemical science of ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT). You’ll learn why ketamine's fast-acting effects matter, how it interacts with neurotransmitters like glutamate and norepinephrine, and what makes the post-session “window of freedom” so potent for rewiring your mind. From its antidepressant effects to promising new insights around ADHD, KAT offers a compelling alternative to pharmaceutical routes. As always, integration is key—because those baby dendrites need direction.

🔵 Key Takeaways

-Ketamine-assisted therapy increases neuroplasticity by modulating NMDA and AMPA receptor pathways via glutamate.

-KAT interrupts cycles of anxiety and depression, offering a 3–5 day reset to rebuild healthier neural pathways.

-Many report improved focus and reduced reliance on ADHD meds post-treatment—an emerging area of research.

-Women's hormonal cycles may affect ketamine sensitivity, pointing to the need for personalized protocols.

-KAT also shows promise for chronic pain and trauma recovery, especially when paired with integrative healing practices.

Learn more about this episode, including guests and resources on substack:https://aprilpride.substack.com/p/ketamine-therapy-brain-effects-explained

Hosted by April Pride

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