You may have seen headlines about ketamine therapy offering fast relief for depression and PTSD. While ketamine has a growing role in mental health care—especially for certain types of depression—its place in PTSD treatment is still uncertain. Here’s what the latest research and clinical guidelines say, and why trauma-focused therapy in Edmonton remains the most effective path for lasting PTSD recovery.
Ketamine Therapy for Depression
Esketamine (Spravato®), a nasal spray form of ketamine, is approved in Canada and the U.S. for treatment-resistant depression and depression with active suicidal thoughts.
Research shows that, when combined with an oral antidepressant, esketamine can improve mood quickly—sometimes within hours. However, the effect often fades within days or weeks, which means repeated maintenance sessions are needed. Because of possible side effects such as increased blood pressure, dizziness, or dissociation, treatment must take place in a certified clinic under medical supervision.
Ketamine for PTSD: Where the Evidence Stands
Studies exploring ketamine therapy for PTSD are still in the early stages. Some small clinical trials suggest temporary relief of symptoms, and researchers are investigating whether ketamine could enhance trauma-focused therapies such as exposure or EMDR.
However, major clinical guidelines—such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs/Department of Defense Clinical Practice Guideline for PTSD (2023) and the Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT, 2023)—do not currently recommend ketamine as a standard PTSD treatment. At this point, it remains experimental.
Why Trauma-Focused Therapy Is Still the Gold Standard
Extensive research confirms that PTSD responds best to evidence-based trauma therapies, including:
- EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
- Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
These approaches help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reduce nervous system overreactivity, and shift unhelpful beliefs—leading to long-term recovery, not just short-term relief.
When to Consider Ketamine
If you are experiencing treatment-resistant depression, and other medications or therapies haven’t worked, ketamine—particularly esketamine—may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
For PTSD, the strongest and most lasting results still come from trauma-focused therapy. Ketamine may one day serve as a helpful adjunctive treatment, but research has not yet confirmed its role.
Your Next Step Toward Recovery
If you are struggling with PTSD, depression, or both, the most effective path is one grounded in safe, evidence-based care. At my practice in Edmonton, I specialize in:
- EMDR therapy
- Prolonged Exposure (PE)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Together, we can create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your symptoms and supports lasting healing. When needed, I also coordinate with medical providers to ensure clients have access to appropriate adjunctive options, including esketamine.
Bottom line: While ketamine therapy can be helpful for certain types of depression, for PTSD, trauma therapy in Edmonton remains the most effective and lasting solution.
Reputable Resources
For those interested in learning more:
- VA/DoD Clinical Practice Guideline for PTSD (2023)
- The Choice-D Patient and Family Guide to Depression Treatment
- Ketamine and Esketamine: Key Considerations
Let’s Connect
If you’re ready to explore evidence-based treatment for PTSD in Edmonton, I’d be honoured to support your recovery.
Maddalena Genovese, Registered Psychologist
Genovese Trauma & PTSD Recovery
