Editor’s Note: This blog was updated on October 16th to reflect the latest information.
At-home ketamine therapy has emerged as a concerning trend in mental health treatment, leading to severe outcomes, including laryngospasm-induced deaths. This shift away from best-practice models has resulted in increased self-administration of sublingual ketamine, posing significant risks to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms.
The diversion from best-practice models has caused an increase in the self-administration of sublingual ketamine, commonly known as take-home or at-home ketamine.
Scenic City Neurotherapy has witnessed tragic outcomes, including laryngospasm-induced deaths, linked to the promotion of at-home ketamine by certain entities. Misleading information within the medical community has resulted in more practitioners prescribing these substances without a full understanding of their risks, potentially endangering individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms.
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic facilitated the prescription of controlled substances via telehealth, paving the way for at-home ketamine therapy. Consequently, with billions invested in advertising by telehealth companies and prescribers, at-home ketamine was marketed as a miraculous drug without any regard for patient safety. However, this disregard for safety sparked valid concerns among healthcare providers regarding patient well-being, treatment efficacy, and long-term health outcomes.
The Future of Mental Health: Ketamine Therapy Report by All Points North (APN) highlights the dangers of self-administered ketamine, warning of increased dependency on this controlled substance in the absence of professional supervision. Shockingly, 55% of Americans who have tried at-home ketamine stated either accidentally or purposefully exceeding the recommended dose. The report also emphasizes the necessity of ketamine therapy with ongoing psychotherapy under the guidance of a knowledgeable clinical team.
After discussing the findings of the 2023 Mental Health Report: Ketamine Therapy, it’s crucial to share insights from those who have firsthand experience with at-home ketamine use. Below, we present testimonials compiled by our Medical Team, who have listened to and documented the experiences of individuals undergoing at-home ketamine therapy:
A 36-year-old male, happily married with a child and with no significant medical history, tragically lost his life due to an unforeseen consequence of self-administered ketamine. He had been taking his prescription of sublingual ketamine from a popular online prescriber for several months without incident.
The cause of death was deemed a fatal laryngospasm after ingesting 350mg of the drug. His spouse discovered him unconscious, reinforcing the perilous outcomes associated with at-home ketamine use.
A 28-year-old female, documented to have a history of hyper-reactive airways, succumbed to asphyxiation following the self-administration of sublingual ketamine. The distressing incident occurred when she opted for the sublingual route over the intravenous method, citing financial constraints.
Despite daily adherence to prescribed ketamine from an online prescriber, her decision proved fatal. Found down by her young son, this tragedy highlights the lethal consequences of resorting to at-home ketamine use.
A 20-year-old male, under the care of an online prescriber for sublingual ketamine, faced a life-altering event from his first dose. He suffered an anoxic injury from aspirating vomit, a consequence of consuming 325mg of ketamine.
His nurse mother entered his room to check on him, noticing he had vomited. She then turned him onto his side and immediately dialed 911 for help. However, the aftermath leaves him with anticipated lifelong deficits, serving as a powerful reminder of the severe risks associated with at-home ketamine administration.
A 31-year-old female who stabilized with our practice four years ago shared her experience with at-home ketamine use. She was prescribed daily sublingual ketamine troches at a dosage of 350mg. Despite not finding it helpful, she used it desperately for relief. However, she began experiencing concerning symptoms, including long, stringy blood in her urine.
Upon contacting our clinic, our Medical Team advised her to discontinue the troches. She encountered some withdrawal symptoms following the discontinuation of frequent, high-dose ketamine troches, but fortunately, the bladder symptoms went away. We re-educated her on the dangers of self-administered anesthetics and cautioned against the practices of unethical providers prescribing take-home ketamine.
Matthew Perry’s death, reportedly linked to at-home ketamine use, paints a picture of a human caught in the throes of a misunderstood treatment. Despite adhering to what were likely prescribed guidelines, Perry met a tragic fate, drowning after ingesting a substantial dose of ketamine while relaxing in his hot tub.
This incident highlights the need for greater awareness about the risks of unsupervised ketamine therapy and emphasizes the importance of seeking proper medical guidance in managing mental health conditions.
These secondhand accounts, gathered by our Medical Team from the experiences of our patients, along with the tragic narrative of Matthew Perry, provide invaluable insights into the realities of at-home ketamine use. They serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking proper guidance and supervision when considering ketamine therapy.
While sublingual ketamine may offer convenience or accessibility in certain situations, it falls short of the gold standard set by IV ketamine administration. In contrast, the IV administration route ensures precise dosage control, enhanced safety measures, emergency response capabilities, and proven results. Ethical ketamine therapy providers refrain from sublingual routes in favor of IV administration for these reasons, as depicted in the comparative chart below.
It’s essential to consider the best path forward in your journey towards better mental health. If you or someone you know is considering at-home ketamine therapy, we urge you to prioritize safety and effectiveness by exploring IV ketamine treatment.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, we’re committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. As a community care provider with the VA, we offer treatments to veterans at no cost, ensuring accessibility for those who have served our country. Additionally, we accept FSA and HSA payments, and offer flexible payment plans to accommodate your financial needs.
Whether you choose us or another reputable clinic, your well-being is our top priority. We’re here to guide you towards the most effective treatment options and support you every step of the way on your path to healing.
Their story is confirmation of the power of seeking proper guidance and embracing evidence-based treatments:
The staff kept telling me that this treatment was life-changing. I was skeptical at first, but now I get it. Before when I would stress, I would sink into depression. Now, when I feel stressed, it’s just normal stress anyone would feel. I still feel emotions and stress, but I’m managing all of it so much better now and the ‘lows’ are gone. This stuff really does work, and if you put in the effort, it is life-changing.
This testimonial affirms the impact that IV ketamine therapy can have on your mental health and quality of life. We invite you to reach out to us to learn more about how IV ketamine therapy can make a difference in your life, just as it did for them.
Together, you and Scenic City Neurotherapy can prioritize your safety and well-being by choosing best-practice treatment methods tailored to your needs and circumstances.
References
Peeling back the layers of mental health stigma reveals a complex and pervasive force that shapes perceptions and experiences, often eluding easy definitions. In this blog post, we delve into the profound insights shared by professionals in the mental health industry, shedding light on the challenges of stigma and offering actionable strategies for fostering inclusivity and support.
As Sheaba Chacko, LPC-MHSP recently shared with us:
“A social stigma is a critical attitude toward something you don’t want to be associated with because of the cost involved.”
This powerful statement captures the essence of this blog post.
Stigma, an intangible force that shapes perceptions and experiences, often eludes easy definition. It’s a concept packed with emotions and implications, yet its true core can be difficult to understand.
To peel back the layers of stigma and gain a deeper understanding, we reached out to professionals in the mental health industry with a simple yet profound question: What does stigma mean to you?
Please read this blog with an open mind and a compassionate heart. Let’s embrace the diverse perspectives, understanding their importance in shedding light on the complexities of mental health stigma.
Responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.
Stigma, fueled by misconceptions and fear of the unknown, is a type of stereotyping generated by groupthink. Instead of seeking understanding, we tend to ‘other’ individuals, including ourselves, creating separation and isolation from supportive connections.
I see the pervasive damage caused by stigma. Many challenges in this world could be easily solved if we understood that not only bad things can happen to me and those I love, but that bad things happening to other people is bad for me too.
For example, I always ensure a full tank of gas to avoid getting stranded. Witnessing others run out of gas, it is easy for me to think they have been lazy or reckless. But recently, my own mechanical issue nearly left me stranded. It reminded me that anyone can face this! It caused a traffic jam, impacting others. Those behind me had a choice: watch me struggle or lend a hand. Despite embarrassment, those who helped benefited everyone.
In other scenarios, stigma stops me from asking for help because I don’t want to be embarrassed. Stigma stops people from helping me because they don’t think it could happen to them, or that maybe I even deserve the consequences. At the end of the day, we all end up in the traffic jam.
Stigma refers to the disapproval, disgrace, or discrimination associated with a particular circumstance, quality, or person. In the context of mental illness, stigma often manifests as negative stereotypes and prejudiced attitudes towards individuals who experience mental health issues. These negative perceptions can arise from misunderstanding, fear, or culturally ingrained prejudice, and they frequently distort public perception of mental illness.
I see stigma played out every single day with a loved one with mental illness. It’s a label that is given to my loved one built upon surface value. Maybe it begins with a first impression, with the way they look, the way they present themselves. However it begins, stigma can grow rapidly – like a cancer.
Stigma is an internal bias that is displayed through words, actions and discriminatory beliefs toward my loved one. It holds my loved one back, limits their potential and threatens an otherwise promising future. It is often cloaked in the form of “concern” but what it really is, is a negative belief and stereotype about someone that is built upon ignorance and judgment.
Viewed through the perspective of a seasoned firefighter, mental health in emergency services was often equated to ironclad stoicism when dealing with the pressures and traumas experienced in the field. Signs of a greater problem (I.e. substance abuse, depression, anxiety, irritability, sleep problems, relational struggles, etc.) were often labeled as “part of the job”, sometimes even championed, because as a rookie they had now joined the ranks of those who had “seen things”.
The stigma told us that if a crew member was struggling, it was clearly a chink in their armor, and they just weren’t cut out for the job. You can imagine how difficult it was to even consider seeking help. Words like “weak,” “unfit for duty,” and “attention hog” would be tossed around among the department.
If a member dared to push through the first layer of stigma, they still had the struggle of finding an affordable mental health professional who understood the nuances of trauma exposure within emergency services.
Change was slow as administrations remained uneducated about mental health. The support for first responders just wasn’t there. But as the stigma begins to dissolve on both local and national levels, mental health is becoming prioritized in tangible ways: peer support teams, employee assistance programs, training for both fire departments and mental health professionals, and legislation.
It’s encouraging to note that much of the stigma surrounding mental health is being addressed and is evolving, as older members become educated and shift their understanding of what mental health entails, while younger generations bring their awareness and new perspective on what it means to maintain mental balance.
In the context of mental illness, stigma represents the negative feelings and judgments directed towards people, our family, or our son because of his mental health condition. Stigma creates a lot of assumptions by others about us, and those assumptions can defy reality.
Let’s talk about stigma in a social context. I’m going to argue that you can’t overcome social stigma without understanding where it comes from. A social stigma is a critical attitude toward something you don’t want to be associated with because of the cost involved.
What cost you ask? I’d say the price tag of rejection. As a species, we are programmed to “do the rejecting”, not “be the rejected”.
If you look at our evolutionary history, there was a time where rejection could easily mean the difference between life or death. Since resources were so limited at the time, division within the group could actually cause the entire group to collapse!
So, the people who challenged group cohesion were cut off and the people who supported group cohesion were allowed to stay.
Even though we are currently the most resourced that we have ever been, the programming to “disapprove of” and “cut off” what is inconvenient, challenging, or daunting – does not die easily. For the stigma surrounding a subject to disappear, I would insist that the social benefit of associating with the subject has to clearly outweigh the social cost of associating with it.
The insights shared by this group makes it clear that stigma surrounding mental illness permeates our society, affecting individuals and communities in profound ways.
“We have more road rage, less patient teachers, and burned out nurses. We have a sicker population. We have well-trained people leaving the workforce. We have weaker families because mom or dad cannot be emotionally present. We have more emotionally reactive police officers due to traumatic experiences they’ve encountered while on duty. Stigma costs us all a lot.” – Ami Miller, Scenic City Neurotherapy
The group’s viewpoints provide insights into the complexities of stigma and offer actionable strategies for collective action against it.
Now, let’s explore their recommended approaches for addressing stigma and discrimination against individuals with mental illness.
Here are the common themes that emerged from their feedback.
Embracing the facts is vital—knowing that one in five Americans struggles with mental illness highlights its prevalence.
Education is the foundation of change, and when it comes to mental health, it’s no different. Understanding the people behind the diagnosis, not just the diagnosis itself, is crucial in breaking down barriers.
There’s no universal solution for individuals living with mental health challenges or their caregivers. However, having a variety of helpful ideas at hand can make a significant difference in providing support.
By providing accurate information and fostering awareness, we can dispel myths and pave the way for a society that embraces mental health with compassion and understanding.
Myth: Mental illness is rare.
→ Reality: Mental health conditions are more common than many people assume, impacting millions worldwide, as reported by the World Health Organization.
Myth: People with mental illness are violent or dangerous.
→ Reality: Individuals with mental illnesses are more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators.
Myth: Mental illness is a result of personal weakness.
→ Reality: Mental health issues are a result of changes in the brain due to trauma or stress. They are complex conditions that can arise from various factors including biology, environment, and life experiences.
Just as we openly discuss physical illnesses like diabetes or cancer, it’s time to destigmatize mental illness through education – by having open, caring conversations, understanding its nuances, and learning effective management strategies.
The more we openly discuss mental wellness, the more normalized it becomes.
Sharing personal stories fosters empathy and acceptance, essential ingredients for eradicating stigma.
“My neighbor saw my son in crisis and walked him back home. They treated him as a human being who was having trouble thinking clearly and needed a friend to help him. Later, they told me what happened and asked how we were doing. They didn’t judge or ask too many questions. They just cared and wanted to make sure we were okay.” – Laura Pierce, NAMI
Personal stories like this one serve as powerful reminders of the impact of empathy and compassion. In this instance, the neighbor saw a fellow human in need, not just a diagnosis.
What makes this story resonate is the absence of judgment or intrusion. It was a simple act of kindness driven by love and concern, with no agenda other than to offer help. We must treat individuals who battle mental health challenges with dignity and respect, recognizing their humanity above all else.
Personal stories about mental health reveal genuine experiences, showing that anyone, even those with seemingly perfect lives, can be affected. By sharing our narratives, we inspire empathy and acceptance, fostering a deeper understanding of the experiences of those living with mental health conditions.
Empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is a powerful tool in nurturing compassion and support for those facing mental health challenges. It’s more than just an occasional gesture – it’s a habit that we must actively cultivate in our daily lives.
At the heart of empathy lies the realization that mental illness can happen to anyone. We are all dispelling the disbelief that something like mental illness, cancer, or divorce could not happen to me…until it does.
By acknowledging our own potential to experience mental health issues, and believing that none of us are immune to life’s challenges, allows us to open ourselves up to understanding and connecting with others who may be going through similar struggles.
Making empathy a habit involves actively listening to others, validating their experiences, and offering support without judgment. It means taking the time to truly understand someone else’s perspective and emotions, even if they differ from our own.
To end the social stigma surrounding emotional, mental, and behavioral health, we need a united effort from all segments of society. This viewpoint, expressed by a member of the group, Sheaba Chacko, emphasizes the necessity for those who hold positions of power, privilege, and influence – the ‘in group’ – to actively reach out and build bridges to the ‘out group’.
It’s a top-down approach that starts with normalizing and demonstrating inclusive ways of talking about mental health. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, mentor, boss, athlete, or older sibling, your role in shaping conversations about mental health matters.
When those in positions of authority lead with courage and kindness, they pave the way for radical change. By spearheading conversations and demonstrating acceptance, they help reduce the fear of rejection surrounding the topic.
As social stigma decreases and social approval increases, resources for addressing mental health barriers will flow more freely. By building bridges between societal groups, as advocated by Sheaba Chacko, we can create a more supportive and inclusive environment where everyone has access to the resources they need for overall wellness.
“As a caregiver to a loved one with mental illness, stigma scares me. Perpetual stigma will limit my loved one’s future; their ability to have a happy, whole life. It scares me that my loved one is never going to accomplish all that they could because of a misdirected and uneducated cultural bias. My loved one didn’t ask for a diagnosis. They deserve better. They deserve to have every opportunity, every chance to contribute to society. Stigma will hold them back, limit their achievements and darken their spirit. When I think about stigma, I think about how as a country we need to develop stronger employment laws built upon diversity, equality and inclusion.” – Eddie Grant, NAMI
Eddie’s testimony reinforces the urgent need for action in the fight against stigma and injustice. It reminds us of the impact systemic biases have on individuals and their opportunities for a fulfilling life.
Fighting for equity means advocating for justice in all aspects of life. Equity entails delivering the necessary resources and support in the appropriate time, location, and manner tailored to individual needs. It’s about challenging systemic inequalities and ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources.
This pursuit of equity requires courage, resilience, and commitment. It involves speaking out against discrimination, oppression, and injustice wherever they exist.
Words hold immense power, and by consciously choosing to speak out, we can create a more supportive and compassionate environment.
Whether it’s advocating for marginalized communities, fighting for equal rights, or pushing for policy changes, the fight for equity is a continuous battle. It’s about standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
As we conclude our exploration into the stigma of mental health, I encourage you to carry forward the insights shared by these experienced professionals. Remember that stigma is not just an abstract concept – it’s a pervasive force that shapes our perceptions and experiences, intentionally or not.
Stigma is a barrier that limits opportunities, darkens spirits, and perpetuates inequalities.
We have the power to take collective action in challenging stigma, creating a more informed and inclusive society.
It’s a collective effort – one that requires courage, resilience, and commitment.
Take action by applying lessons learned and embracing the perspectives shared. Together, You and Scenic City Neurotherapy can work towards a world where stigma is powerless, and where every person is valued, respected, and supported on their journey to better wellness.
In “Embracing Better with PTSD,” we interview Anna McCurdy, a trauma-focused therapist, covering her work with PTSD and how it pairs with the Ketamine Infusion and TMS Therapies offered at Scenic City Neurotherapy. We also welcome Josh, a veteran and special guest, who shares his firsthand experiences with Ketamine Infusion Therapy and PTSD, explored further in this blog post. Listen now on our Research & Resources page.
Josh, a veteran, battled with PTSD and severe depression for years, trying various medications and treatments with little success. His journey towards healing took a significant turn when his wife found Scenic City Neurotherapy (SCN) after more than a decade of struggles. Despite initial reluctance and skepticism, Josh wound up at our clinic, motivated by the support of his loved ones. Josh shared that he had exhausted a long list of medications and treatment methods that led only to disappointment. He had reached a point of resignation and felt indifferent towards finding relief. However, willing to appease his wife’s determination, Josh decided to give ketamine infusion therapy a try. He completed the Stabilization Phase at our clinic, consisting of six infusions over three weeks.
“It took multiple attempts of not coming or refusing before they got me down there. It’s been the best by far [in terms of] effectiveness on a long term basis,” says Josh.
Josh didn’t notice immediate changes, but gradually, he began to experience a subtle shift. He described feeling “better” and echoed a phrase frequently employed at SCN, indicating progress rather than perfection.
“We use the term better a lot. Better doesn’t always mean good. It means better than it was. Less bad. We’re moving things forward, but better is the goal,” says Charles Miller, CMO and Founder of SCN.
Josh’s healing journey was not always smooth, nor was it always “better.” But two undeniable facts remained: he was not constantly consumed with negativity, and he did not constantly hate everything. Josh slowly progressed to enjoying things he once hated and explained that, while it took time, he does not know how he used to think previously. Charles Miller elaborated on Josh’s progress, emphasizing the importance of incremental improvements. He noted a significant moment when Josh decided to trash a chair symbolically tied to his struggles. This choice, motivated by his own determination, marked an important step towards regaining control over his life.
“One of the things that we always struggled with was this chair at home. It was his chair, and he would always go back to the chair because one of his outlets was just to get lost in video games… Well, we noticed that he had pain attached to his PTSD, and the worse the symptoms of PTSD got, the more the pain would increase. Every time he would get back in the chair and play video games, he felt this pain. He [Josh] identified this. I did not. It was to the point that his wife came in, said he’d thrown the chair out, and that she used that chair too. She said, ‘So now we don’t have that chair.’ It was the best thing he ever did because HE made the change. He removed the barrier. It was symbolic,” said Charles Miller.
Josh’s dedication to getting better did not go unnoticed. Charles praised his resilience, highlighting his transition from a nonfunctional state to leading a fulfilling life. Regular exercise became a part of Josh’s routine, and his wife expressed joy in having her husband back. In addition to his podcast interview, Josh shared his experience with me directly, stating, “Skip forward to about a year after I started treatments with Scenic City Neurotherapy. I made more improvement in that one year than the other six combined that I depended on alternative modalities.”
To this day, Josh remains committed to his mental health, understanding that it is a lifelong journey. He’s attuned to the signs—feelings of anxiety, overwhelming stress, worthlessness, and suicidal ideation—that prompt him to schedule booster infusions. The boosters help address these signs of his mental health symptoms returning, ensuring they do not become more severe or reoccurring.
“It’s [booster infusion] going to do what it does whether I want it to or not… I can use that to focus on my coping mechanisms,” says Josh. With ketamine infusion therapy and positive coping mechanisms as his tools, Josh knows that he is equipped to confront life’s challenges head-on.
In sharing his story, Josh hopes to inspire others battling similar demons, reminding them that healing is possible with perseverance and the right support system. His story sheds light on the road to managing and overcoming symptoms of PTSD and depression.
In the wise words of Josh, “Start getting out of your own way.”
Scenic City Neurotherapy is a trusted VA Community Care Provider. All veterans with a VA referral receive coverage for the cost of care. Our treatments do not require medication trials for coverage. To receive coverage, a VA referral is necessary to consult with our providers, and to begin treatment with Scenic City Neurotherapy. If you do not have one yet, we recommend reaching out to your local VA medical center to get started on this crucial first step.
Upon receiving your VA referral, we will contact you to schedule a consultation.
The landscape of mental health treatment has expanded, offering innovative approaches that challenge traditional modalities. Ketamine infusion therapy has grown to be a promising avenue for those seeking relief from conditions like depression, PTSD, and anxiety. However, with its unconventional nature and negative portrayal in the media comes understandable apprehension about safety. While it’s tempting to view all ketamine clinics through rose-colored glasses, let’s face it: not all of them are created equal. It’s crucial to recognize that the principles set forth in scientific research don’t always translate to the real world.
In medical care, it’s recognized that certain individuals and entities prioritize financial gains over patient well-being, potentially leading to deviations from the quality standards outlined in peer-reviewed literature. Additionally, it is acknowledged that some providers and clinics who express interest in offering our suite of treatments encounter personal challenges related to time constraints, capabilities, or ethical standards that can impact the quality of their programs.
Exactly as healthcare providers seek confidence that their referrals will undergo safe and effective treatment, it’s equally important for the broader community to have the assurance that the services they invest in will fulfill their expectations while maintaining their safety.
To address these concerns, Scenic City Neurotherapy developed a solution known as Minimally-Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®). MSKIT® protocols provide educational materials and resources for both patients and providers, offering clear guidance on a best-practice approach to ketamine administration.
Let’s start with the basics: Ketamine, when administered by certified professionals in a well-equipped clinic, maintains an outstanding safety track record. Years of clinical practice and thorough research consistently confirm its safety within these controlled environments. Here are a few characteristics of ketamine in a best-practice clinical setting:
Allow us to shed light on why you can confidently trust that MSKIT® places patient safety and treatment outcomes first:
It’s essential to assess your lifestyle choices to promote success beyond the treatment alone. Hence, our commitment to educating healthcare professionals about our treatment options, directly benefiting our patients.
Our patients often emphasize the importance of working with a therapist who understands ketamine therapy, as it can significantly impact the treatment process. Our focus is on ensuring healthcare providers grasp the effectiveness of our therapies and how they can best support patients in achieving their goals. As a patient with us, you have access to a network of healthcare providers knowledgeable in ketamine and TMS, guaranteeing you receive well-informed care throughout your healing journey.
Fun Fact! We’ve educated the minds of over 300 local healthcare professionals across a diverse spectrum, including mental health practitioners, physical therapists, internal medicine specialists, massage therapists, and chiropractors!
In conclusion, while the expansion of mental health treatment options has opened doors to innovative approaches like ketamine infusion therapy, ensuring safety remains top priority.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, we prioritize patient well-being through Minimally-Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®). Our dedication to safety is evident through expert medical supervision, private treatment rooms designed for comfort and privacy, meticulous patient monitoring, controlled dosing, and steady-state administration. Our commitment extends beyond our treatments to ensure post-treatment care and ongoing education for healthcare providers. With our focus on safety, efficacy, and patient support, we aim to provide a patient experience that instills confidence and nurtures long-term well-being.
Trust Scenic City Neurotherapy to guide you toward a better tomorrow, one step at a time. Schedule a no-cost consultation by calling 423-228-0579.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, we advocate for patient safety and quality care through our commitment to education. We believe that empowering healthcare professionals with knowledge about our treatment options directly benefits our patients. Through our comprehensive approach, patients can access a network of providers educated on ketamine infusion and TMS therapies, ensuring informed and supportive care throughout the healing journey.
Our dedication to patient safety is reflected in our protocols, from qualified medical supervision and private treatment rooms to advanced patient monitoring and controlled dosing. These measures, coupled with post-treatment support, highlight our commitment to providing a safe, comfortable, and effective treatment environment.
As we continue to refine our procedures and protocols, our goal remains the same: to provide patients with the highest standard of care and support as they move forward in their journey toward better mental health. With Scenic City Neurotherapy, you can rest assured that your healing and safety are our top priorities.
Are your goals buried under heaps of procrastination? Let’s unearth them in our 31-Day Spring Clean Your Life Challenge, starting March 18th!
When we talk about spring cleaning, it’s usually in the context of sprucing up our living spaces, right? We scrub floors, declutter closets, and vacuum the corners we’ve neglected all winter.
But what about ourselves? What about our mental and emotional clutter?
Sure, a spotless house is satisfying, but true fulfillment comes from clearing out the cobwebs within. That’s why our challenge isn’t just about cleaning your home—it’s about straightening up every aspect of your life. Our golden rule at Scenic City Neurotherapy: it’s hard to have good mental health if your life doesn’t support it. That’s why we are digging deep into five key areas of wellness: mental, emotional, physical, environmental, and social.
By getting involved in our spring cleaning challenge, you’ll reap the benefits, including:
Ready to roll up your sleeves and grab hold of these benefits?
We’ve done the groundwork for you, breaking down the challenge into manageable daily tasks. The best part? You can tackle it at your own pace, whenever it fits into your schedule.
Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @sceniccityneuro for weekly updates starting March 18th. We’ll provide a rundown of the week ahead every Monday (3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, and 4/15), along with links to handy templates, tips, and resources to support you along the way.
Alrighty, time to spill the tea on how to get yourself all squared away for the thrills of week one!
Make sure to download your free 31-Day Spring Clean Your Life Calendar so you can join us as we tackle this challenge together!
Revisit this blog weekly for a downloadable guide packed with useful templates, expert tips, and valuable resources.
Week 1 (3/18-3/24) : EMOTIONAL WELLNESS
Week 2 (3/25-3/31): PHYSICAL WELLNESS
Week 3 (4/1-4/7): MENTAL WELLNESS
Week 4 (4/8-4/14): ENVIRONMENTAL WELLNESS
Week 5 (4/15-4/17): SOCIAL WELLNESS
Join the challenge and share your journey with us and your friends! Tag @sceniccityneuro—we can’t wait to see your progress. Let’s spring clean our lives together!
Scenic City Neurotherapy is committed to providing exceptional patient care and serving as a valuable resource for our patients and the broader community. Our dedication to education and empowerment aligns with our mission to provide better individualized care, better treatment options, and better outcomes for our patients.
Scenic City Neurotherapy has encountered its fair share of challenges on the path to where it stands today. One persistent challenge has been the prevalence of misinformation. It is a common temptation to craft a compelling narrative, particularly one centered around a psychedelic or “magical” approach which promises swift and effortless solutions to complex issues like mental health. Such narratives tend to captivate and appeal to a demographic seeking quick fixes. While quick fixes may offer immediate relief, they often come with trade-offs and do not serve you in the long-run.
Rather than relying on appealing stories, we choose the more complex and labor intensive path of education. Genuine progress comes from a thorough understanding and accurate expectations for our treatment options. We offer informational videos, free provider education sessions, no-cost consultations, a monthly newsletter, and we share peer-reviewed research for public consumption. We are constantly welcoming open discussions and debates, as we believe they only serve to enhance our collective understanding.
Shifting our focus from our endeavors, it is time to address the specifics of how you can gain a deeper understanding of Ketamine Infusion Therapy.
We recognize the importance of equipping our patients with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their healthcare. As part of our commitment to patient education, we have developed a range of materials, including:
This graph explains why IV ketamine is the gold-standard. Ketamine works by changing the baseline of the brain. The brain responds by releasing a neuro-regenerative protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which is responsible for the antidepressant effect. These proteins repair and protect neurons, resulting in optimized emotional control, improved clarity and cognitive function. In order for optimal release of BDNF, we must reach and maintain therapeutic blood levels. Steady-state IV administration is vastly superior in completing this task due to more controlled administration, the ability to titrate accurately, and 100% bioavailability.
This graphic explains why our treatments have such a high rate of success compared to antidepressant therapy. Think of neuro-chemicals as cars and neuronal pathways as roads. If the roads are closed, the cars cannot get through. If we add more cars, we obstruct the traffic further. What happens if we are able to open up the closed roads? We can handle the traffic no matter the number of traveling cars. This is what Neurotherapies do; they open up the roads.Our dedication to education extends beyond our clinic’s walls. We actively engage with the community by providing resources that foster a better understanding of neurotherapy and its applications, including mental illness, chronic pain, and cognitive clarity. These efforts include:
Our goal is to be the leader in opioid-free pain management and mental health treatment within the Chattanooga area. We strive to set a gold standard for care that not only yields superior outcomes but also embraces a comprehensive approach. This approach includes providing our patients and community with accurate and complete information, empowering them to make well-informed decisions about their health.
Whether you are considering becoming a patient, exploring educational opportunities, expressing interest in collaborative patient care, or engaging in a constructive discussion, we extend an invitation to speak with us about our neuro-regenerative treatment options. Feel free to contact us at 423-228-0579 or via email at admin@sceniccityneurotherapy.metatech3.com to connect with a dedicated member of our team.
