Why I Start with Low-Dose Ketamine — And Why It’s Deeply Therapeutic

Dear Fellow Humans,

When people first hear “ketamine therapy,” it’s not uncommon for their mind to jump to something big: A dramatic, otherworldly, psychedelic experience. A full journey far away from your everyday awareness.

But that’s not always what healing looks like. At least, not here — and not at first.

At Activate Counseling Services, I work a little differently. I often start ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) with something quieter, slower, and more intentional: low-dose therapy. Not because I believe in holding back. But because I believe in meeting you — and your nervous system — where you are.

Let’s talk about what that actually means.

What Is Low-Dose Ketamine Therapy?

Low-dose ketamine means you’re still present. Still aware. You’re not “gone” — you’re still here. And in that slightly softened, more open state, we do the work.

It’s sometimes called a psycholytic dose, which is a fancy way of saying: the walls are a little looser, the inner world a little more accessible — but you’re still very much you.

It’s a space where you can talk, feel, reflect, and explore — with support. It’s not dramatic. But don’t confuse “not dramatic” with “not powerful.”

Why I Trust the Low-Dose Approach

Low-dose therapy gives us something precious: access to depth, without flooding the system. Here’s what that allows:

• Emotional safety. You’re not overwhelmed or taken out of your window of tolerance — which matters deeply if you carry trauma or anxiety.

• More integration. You can remember what you experienced. You can talk through it, process it, and bring it back into your daily life.

• Nervous system respect. We’re not forcing anything. We’re letting the work unfold. And that unfolding? It sticks.

• Therapeutic relationship. We stay connected. In low-dose sessions, you can still talk to me. Be with me. Let the relationship support the healing — not disappear from it.

There’s also a layer of consent in this. You’re not just going along for the ride. You’re choosing the direction.

This Doesn’t Mean You Can’t Go Deeper

Sometimes people hear “low dose” and assume that means “not enough.”That it’s a watered-down version of the “real” thing.

But here’s the truth: Low-dose is just the beginning.

If and when it feels right — once you’ve established safety and readiness — we can explore moderate doses. It’s never off the table. It’s just not the first stop. And often, it doesn’t need to be.

Who Might This Be Right For?

Maybe you’re someone who:

• Feels stuck, but scared of losing control

• Has done a lot of work already and wants to go deeper — gently

• Carries trauma and needs to move slowly, with care

• Feels curious about ketamine, but cautious

• Knows that your healing can’t be rushed

If that’s you — low-dose might be exactly where your journey needs to begin.

Gentle Doesn’t Mean Weak

This is something I say often: Gentle is not the opposite of powerful.

Some of the most transformative shifts I’ve seen happen in the quiet .In the moments where the medicine isn’t blasting you open — but inviting you inward.

That’s what low-dose ketamine therapy does. It opens a door and says, “Would you like to step through? " You get to say yes — with your whole self.

If this speaks to you, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Low-dose ketamine therapy might not look flashy — but it’s steady, relational, and real. And sometimes, that’s exactly what healing asks for.

Warmly,

Satina