Ketamine For oCD

Treating OCD with Ketamine at Lakeview Wellness Clinic

Understanding OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition characterized by uncontrollable, recurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that a person feels compelled to repeat. OCD can significantly interfere with daily activities and reduce quality of life. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that OCD affects about 1 percent of the U.S. population.

Signs and Symptoms of OCD

Recognizing the symptoms of OCD is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:

  • Obsessions: Recurrent, persistent thoughts, urges, or images that cause anxiety. Some common obsessions include fear of germs, unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts, and the need for symmetry.

  • Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning, handwashing, arranging things in a specific way, and repeatedly checking on things.

Traditional Treatments for OCD

OCD is typically treated with a combination of therapy and medications. Common approaches include:

  • Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is the most effective form of therapy for OCD.

  • Medications: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help manage OCD symptoms.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and stress management techniques can also help reduce symptoms.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy for OCD

At Lakeview Wellness Clinic, we provide ketamine infusion therapy to help alleviate the symptoms of OCD quickly and effectively. For individuals who have not found relief with traditional treatments, ketamine therapy offers a new and promising approach.

How Ketamine Works

Ketamine, an anesthetic drug that has been used safely for decades, works by targeting NMDA receptors in the brain. These receptors are involved in mood regulation and neural plasticity. By modulating them, ketamine helps to reset abnormal neural circuits and promote the growth of new connections, which can rapidly alleviate symptoms of OCD.

Benefits of Ketamine Therapy for OCD

  • Rapid Relief: Ketamine can provide significant relief from OCD symptoms within hours or days, much faster than traditional medications.

  • Neuroplasticity: Ketamine helps the brain to form new, healthy neural connections by promoting neuroplasticity.

  •  Effectiveness: Ketamine is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not responded to other treatments.

  • Improved Quality of Life: Reduced symptoms of OCD can lead to improved overall functioning and well-being.

What to Expect During Ketamine Infusion Therapy

At Lakeview Wellness Clinic, ketamine is administered through an intravenous (IV) line in a safe and supportive environment. Our experienced medical team, led by Jennifer Hammond Eze, MSN, CRNA, ARNP, closely monitors each patient to ensure their safety and comfort. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, Jennifer provides compassionate and personalized care to each individual.
  • Initial Consultation:  We begin with a thorough assessment to determine if ketamine therapy is appropriate for you.
  • Customized Treatment Plan: Based on your specific needs, we develop a personalized treatment plan.
  • Ketamine Infusions: Treatments are administered in the calm environment of our clinic, with each session typically lasting 40 minutes for mental health conditions.
  • Ongoing Support: Our team provides continuous monitoring and support throughout treatment to ensure the best possible outcome.

Take the Next Step

If you are struggling with OCD and have not found relief with traditional treatments, ketamine therapy at Lakeview Wellness Clinic in Tukwila, WA, may offer the hope and healing you need.
Give us a call at 206-274-6953 or email us at info@thelakeviewclinic.com to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how ketamine therapy can help you.