KA-EMDR brings together two powerful approaches to healing – EMDR therapy with medically supervised use of low-dose ketamine – which, when combined, can accelerate trauma reprocessing. The protocol was developed in 2024 by Danielle Ciccone and Michele Topel.
Why combine EMDR with ketamine?
EMDR therapy helps the brain reprocess “stuck” traumatic memories by activating its natural healing system, allowing those memories to be integrated in a healthier way. This can reduce symptoms like anxiety, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, avoidance, and negative self-beliefs.
The use of low-dose ketamine allows clients to experience increased emotional openness, a decreased flight-or-fight response, and enhanced neuroplasticity while remaining alert and engaged in the therapeutic process. These conditions help clients to work through difficult material, explore new perspectives, and experience emotional shifts with EMDR therapy.
Who can benefit from this approach?
KA-EMDR can be especially effective for individuals with trauma-related conditions who have found limited relief from traditional therapies and for those who are looking to do deeper work. It may also be beneficial for clients who are curious about working with ketamine, but would prefer to start with a non-psychedelic dose.
