/assets/images/provider/photos/2730351.jpeg)
What Is Neuroplasticity?
Neuroplasticity refers to the brain’s ability to change and adapt in response to new experiences. In essence, it allows your brain to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.
The good news is that your brain’s neuroplasticity could be the key to overcoming the challenges posed by major depressive disorder (MDD).
In Atlanta, Georgia, Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions is at the forefront of rapid advancements. Dr. Karen Giles, our board-certified psychiatrist specializing in interventional psychiatry and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, understands the role of neuroplasticity in treating mental health conditions.
One of the most promising approaches is ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), which leverages our brain’s plasticity to combat depressive symptoms in a novel way.
Neuroplasticity and your brain
Neuroplasticity — neuro for neurons and plasticity meaning malleability — encapsulates the brain’s ability to shape and reshape its structure and function throughout life. It’s the bedrock of learning, recovery from injuries, and adaptability.
The neuroplasticity-MDD connection
In MDD, crucial brain regions shrink like unused, atrophying muscle. The density of synapses, those vital connectors in your mind’s network, dwindles. When you lose neuroplasticity, depressive symptoms become entrenched in your brain’s topography.
If you could harness your brain’s plasticity, you could change those engrained depressive tendencies.
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy: The gateway to change
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is a fusion of modern medicine and psychological therapy aimed at unraveling the complex web of symptoms associated with MDD. This innovative treatment combines intravenous (IV) ketamine treatments with talk therapy.
The idea behind KAP is rooted in the unique state of increased openness and curiosity that ketamine induces, which can enhance the effects of psychotherapy. During this heightened state, you’re more receptive to exploring new perspectives and engaging in therapeutic conversations that can pave the way for creating new neural pathways. The ideal window for achieving neuroplastic change is 24 - 48 hours after receiving IV ketamine.
Even if you’ve grappled with the debilitating effects of MDD for years without significant relief, KAP offers hope. For many, this treatment alleviates acute, short-term symptoms and lays the groundwork for a lasting transformation by fostering the development of healthier thought patterns and coping mechanisms.
Unlike traditional approaches, KAP targets your brain’s neuroplasticity — its ability to adapt and reorganize itself. This approach is unique because it directly influences your brain’s structure and function, aiming to reverse the changes associated with MDD.
The crux of KAP’s connection with neuroplasticity is the dramatic reconfiguration of cognitive pathways. Ketamine infusions energize your brain’s dark and dormant regions, which light up on imaging tests when new neural connections occur.
KAP at Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions
Dr. Giles is a distinguished psychiatrist who embodies professionalism and expertise. Her certification in interventional psychiatry and specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy places her at the forefront of innovative mental health treatments.
Alongside Dr. Giles, Breakthru partners with Dr. Ted Liberty, PhD, J.D., who specializes in treating treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, and complex trauma utilizing psychedelic integration.
Dr. Giles and Dr. Liberty’s comprehensive medical knowledge and profound understanding of psychotherapeutic practices enhance their approach to KAP, enabling them to tailor each treatment to each patient’s unique mental health challenges.
When it comes to KAP, you want your doctor to have extensive experience managing ketamine’s dosage and administration, an understanding of the appropriate neuroplastic window, and an intuitive ability to adjust therapy in real-time based on your responses. Dr. Giles and Dr. Liberty’s deep insight into the complex relationship among cognitive processes, brain function, and psychedelic therapy ensures a safe KAP experience.
Request an appointment online, or call Breakthru Psychiatric Solutions in Sandy Springs, Georgia, to learn more about ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.