Unlocking Healing: How Ketamine-Assisted EMDR is Transforming Trauma Therapy

In the world of trauma therapy, innovation is not just welcome—it is essential. For individuals who feel stuck in traditional treatment approaches or who have experienced limited relief from talk therapy alone, a new frontier is emerging: Ketamine-Assisted EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).

At University Park Counseling and Testing Center, PLLC we are committed to offering effective, evidence-informed options for healing. That’s why we are excited to introduce Ketamine-Assisted EMDR—a promising blend of neuroscience, psychotherapy, and medical innovation.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy developed to help people process and heal from traumatic experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping) to help the brain “digest” memories that were previously stuck in a fight-or-flight state.

Many clients find EMDR life-changing, but for some—especially those with complex trauma or treatment-resistant symptoms—it can feel like the process gets “stuck.” That’s where ketamine can come in.

The Role of Ketamine in Therapy

Ketamine is a fast-acting medication originally used as an anesthetic and now recognized for its powerful antidepressant and dissociative properties. At low, controlled doses, ketamine can:

Reduce psychological defenses
Create a sense of safety and openness
Decrease fear response
Enhance neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to change and heal)

When used in a therapeutic setting, ketamine can help clients access and process deeply buried memories or emotions with more ease and less overwhelm.

How Ketamine-Assisted EMDR Works

In Ketamine-Assisted EMDR sessions, clients receive a low-dose ketamine treatment under medical supervision—via lozenge—followed by guided EMDR therapy. The ketamine experience allows the brain to enter a more flexible and receptive state, allowing the EMDR protocol to be even more effective.

Some key benefits we have observed:

Clients often access memories or insights they have struggled to reach for years.
Emotional regulation improves during sessions, reducing avoidance or dissociation.
Clients report breakthroughs in just a few sessions compared to months of traditional therapy.

Who is a Good Candidate?

KA-EMDR may be right for you if:

You have experienced trauma or PTSD that has not fully responded to traditional therapy.
You struggle with anxiety, depression, or treatment-resistant mood symptoms.
You are open to innovative, holistic approaches to healing.
You are working with a therapist who feels you might benefit from deeper access to trauma processing.

This treatment is conducted with careful screening, collaboration between our EMDR therapist, Stephanie Patak, and our prescriber Ayla Jenson Naughton, and a trauma-informed approach every step of the way.

A Gentle, Intentional Process

We believe that true healing happens in a safe, supportive environment. Ketamine is not a magic bullet—but it can be a powerful tool when integrated into therapy with skill and care. At University Park Counseling and Testing Center, PLLC, our team is specially trained in trauma, psychedelic-assisted therapy, and psychopharmacology to ensure that every experience is tailored and grounded in best practices.

Interested in Learning More?

If you or a loved one are curious about Ketamine-Assisted EMDR, we would love to talk. Whether you’re already in therapy or just beginning your healing journey, we are here to support you. Let’s explore what healing can look like—together.

Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!