IV Ketamine Therapy

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WHAT IS KETAMINE?


Ketamine is truly a breakthrough for many mental health conditions. This medication, used as an anesthetic since 1962, has proven effective for psychiatric disorders. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we use it in carefully measured doses, personalized for each patient's needs.

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How Does Ketamine Work?


Understanding mood disorders, like depression, can be complex and challenging to treat. Ketamine, a medication, can help. It boosts connections in the brain, repairing damage from stress. This unique process brings hope to those who didn't respond to other treatments.


Brain cells can shrink over time, losing connections and affecting our mood. Studies have found that Ketamine can help brain connections grow back, especially in brains with some degree of chronic or acute stress. Ketamine causes a burst of activity in the brain, making it produce more of the important substances that allow brain cells to connect again.


Current research suggests that Ketamine promotes the growth of new synapses in the prefrontal cortex, resulting in greater connectivity in the brain. This event is thought to be the reason for the rapid antidepressant effects. Nasal esketamine, Spravato is the FDA approved formulation for depression with Suicidal Ideation and Treatment Resistant depression. IV Ketamine or other routes of administration of Ketamine are not FDA approved, making its use off-label.


Your insurance may cover Spravato through your prescription and medical benefits. However, for the administration of IV Ketamine, insurance will only cover your office visit. The patient is responsible for the cost of supplies. We'll assess your coverage to provide you with a cost estimate.

WHICH PATIENT CASES ARE IDEAL FOR KETAMINE?

Individuals with the following conditions who have failed to improve with medications and psychotherapy:

  • Moderate to Severe Depression, Bipolar Depression
  • OCD, PTSD, and other Anxiety Disorders
  • Recurrent thoughts of Suicidal Ideation


KETAMINE INFUSION THERAPY FOR DEPRESSION, ANXIETY AND MOOD DISORDERS

Ketamine offers new hope for patients battling depression, anxiety and mood disorders. It's a safe, proven therapy when other methods fail. Our expert team tailors treatment plans for each patient, ensuring the best care possible.

How Long and How Often?

Treatments involve one to two infusions per week for three to five weeks, each lasting anywhere from one to two hours. Our team guides you through every step, ensuring your comfort and progress. Regular, personalized sessions lead to lasting relief. If successful, your provider may suggest additional maintenance treatment every three to four weeks.

A Blue Umbrella Ketamine Success Story:

"The treatment helped me restore a positive outlook on life, focus on being productive and maintaining healthy relationships. The care I received at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry was personalized, compassionate and thorough. I felt everyone in the practice had my best interest in mind and they provided a lot of support to me and my family."

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY FIRST KETAMINE SESSION?

  • Preparation is key: In the weeks leading up, you'll be guided on how to develop a positive mindset. This might involve avoiding things that could bring negativity, like news or alcohol.
  • Setting intentions: Clinicians will work with you to set clear goals and expectations for your experience.
  • Safety and well-being: Your safety and well-being are a top priority. You can choose to postpone the experience if you don't feel ready, and you'll have ongoing support throughout.

WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR KETAMINE TREATMENT AT BLUE UMBRELLA PSYCHIATRY?

At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we believe ketamine treatment can be a valuable tool for many patients struggling with depression and other mental health conditions. However, to ensure your safety and the treatment's effectiveness, we consider several factors during the consultation:


  • Overall health: We'll assess your medical history, focusing on conditions like blood pressure, heart health, and thyroid function. Well-controlled conditions are generally preferable.
  • Mental health stability: Ketamine works best for those in a stable mental state. If you're experiencing an active manic episode in bipolar disorder or uncontrolled psychotic symptoms, we'll discuss alternative treatment options.
  • Substance use: To ensure a safe and effective experience, we'll inquire about any active substance abuse.


Remember: A comprehensive consultation with our healthcare professionals is the best way to determine if ketamine treatment is right for you. We'll review your unique medical and mental health history to make a personalized recommendation.

HOW LONG IS EACH SESSION?


Patients are expected to be at Blue Umbrella for at least 2 hours and cannot drive on day of their treatment. 


While each person’s experience varies, a psychedelic ketamine journey lasts about 45-60 minutes. You’ll start to feel the effects 10-15 minutes after the ketamine is administered. The peak experience lasts about 30-45 minutes. Most people return to their ordinary level of awareness within 1-2 hours following administration.

What do the effects of ketamine feel like?

Ketamine can create a unique and powerful experience, but it affects everyone a little differently. Here's a breakdown of what you might feel within 10-15 minutes of a psychedelic dose:


  • Deep relaxation and calmness: This is a common effect, like feeling very peaceful and at ease.
  • Physical sensations: Some people describe feeling heavy or tingly in their bodies.
  • Visual distortions: Seeing patterns, colors, or even vivid images is a possibility.
  • Altered thinking: You might feel very different from your usual way of thinking, or even disconnected from your normal thought process.
  • Out-of-body experience: Feeling separate from your physical body is a common effect.
  • Difficulty communicating: Speech may become limited or challenging.
  • Past experiences: Memories or flashbacks might surface during the experience.
  • Important to know: 


These altered states can be unfamiliar and even scary if you're not prepared. That's why we'll discuss all these possibilities with you beforehand to help you feel comfortable and understand what might happen.

Why Choose Blue Umbrella Psychiatry?


Blue Umbrella Psychiatry is led by our medical director, Dr. Eric Robbins, a double board certified Psychiatrist and one of the leading Psychiatrists in South Florida (having been medical director at two South Florida Psychiatric Hospitals). Our mission is to redefine mental healthcare by providing comprehensive and compassionate services all under one roof or umbrella.


Our approach is comprehensive, beginning with a thorough health history and diagnostic assessment. From there, our expert team provides personalized medication management, along with innovative treatments such as Ketamine and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

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frequently asked questions

  • Why should I choose Blue Umbrella Psychiatry?

    If you are like many of our patients, you’ve been frustrated with previous psychiatry services and unable to find meaningful or lasting relief from symptoms that make life unpleasant. All of that is about to change.


    Dr. Eric Robbins founded Blue Umbrella Psychiatry after years of working in a fragmented and uncompassionate mental healthcare industry. He noted that patients aligning with disconnected physicians and therapists led to poor communication, mixed messages, and ineffective care. Blue Umbrella Psychiatry was formed to offer all mental health services under one roof, with providers collaborating and patients caring for the whole person.


    If you are looking for a psychiatry service provider who truly cares, then look no further than Blue Umbrella Psychiatry.

  • What conditions do you treat?

    We treat many conditions, such as:

    • Adolescent Mood Disorders
    • Anxiety
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Depression
    • Treatment Resistant Depression
    • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
    • ADHD

    and more!

  • How can I contact you?

  • What insurances do you accept?

    We currently accept:

    • Aetna
    • Medicare
    • Memorial Healthcare System
    • Optum
    • UMR
    • Cigna
    • United Healthcare
    • Oscar
    • Meritian
    • Avmed
    • Humana
    • Evernorth
    • Florida Blue
  • I don't want to be on medication. Can I still be a patient of the practice?

    We understand that medications can be stigmatizing and may have potential side effects, and we respect our patients' preferences regarding their treatment. While our providers may recommend medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, the final decision is always up to you.


    In addition to medication, we offer a range of non-medicinal treatment options to support your mental health journey, such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and various therapy modalities. Our primary goal is to help you achieve better mental health and wellbeing, and we will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your preferences and needs.

  • What will the first appointment look like?

    At the first appointment, you can expect to meet with at least one clinician who will perform a thorough evaluation. Following this assessment, a diagnosis will be provided along with a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.

  • To what extent are parents involved in their child's care?

    A family-centered approach to treatment is something we believe in at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry. Parents play a crucial part in their child's care, and the success of the situation depends on their active participation. Beginning with a first evaluation when they offer significant insights, we appreciate parents as partners. We create individualized treatment programs together and provide chances for both group and individual therapy sessions. We also give parents the information and assistance they need to support the mental health of their children. Continuous cooperation and communication make sure that parents are aware of and involved in the process. We stand out because of our dedication to family participation and our understanding of the importance of a nurturing home environment for a child's well-being.

  • What is the difference between psychiatry and therapy?

    Psychiatry and therapy are two ways of addressing mental health issues, but they differ in their approach, focus, and the professionals involved. Psychiatry involves using medications and medical treatments to manage mental health conditions. Therapy, on the other hand, focuses on talking and problem-solving techniques to help individuals cope with emotional or behavioral issues. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed medical school followed by years of specialized training in psychiatry. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and Psychiatrists can prescribe medications. Therapists include various professionals like psychologists, licensed clinical social workers, or licensed professional counselors, who have different educational backgrounds and are trained in counseling and psychotherapy techniques. 

  • From what age and up do you treat?

    At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we provide treatment for individuals from the age of 5 and above. We understand that mental health concerns can affect people of various age groups, and we are committed to addressing the needs of children, adolescents, and adults alike. Our expert team of specialists is experienced in dealing with individuals throughout all phases of development and adjusting our approaches accordingly. Whether it's assisting young children with behavioral challenges, supporting teenagers facing emotional difficulties, or providing care for adults navigating mental health issues, we strive to offer comprehensive and compassionate treatment. We want to provide effective assistance and foster well-being for people and families throughout their lifetimes, which is why we start providing services from age 5.

  • Are you a virtual or in-person practice?

    We are primarily an in-person clinic with the capability to do telehealth sessions on occasion on an as-needed basis. For the initial evaluation and subsequent follow-up sessions, you will need to be present for in-person sessions. As such we suggest that you be in close enough proximity to our clinic. 

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