If you’re a Canadian struggling with treatment-resistant mental health issues, finding an effective and affordable solution is a top priority. Ketamine therapy offers relief where traditional methods like SSRIs fall short. But what is the actual ketamine therapy cost? How does it compare to other available options? In this article, I’ll discuss the cost of ketamine therapy in Canada, potential insurance coverage, and go over ketamine-assisted therapy options that we provide at Field Trip Health.
Ketamine Therapy in Canada
Ketamine therapy is changing how we approach mental health treatment in Canada. As a medical professional deeply involved in this field I believe it’s crucial for patients to grasp ketamine’s distinctive role within our healthcare system, including its off-label application, diverse administration routes, and the powerful result it can create when combined with psychotherapy.
Off-Label Use of Ketamine for Mental Health in Canada
In Canada, ketamine’s application for mental health conditions is considered “off-label”. This means that while it’s not officially approved for these uses, healthcare professionals can prescribe it based on their clinical judgment. It still requires a prescription but it is the only legally available psychedelic, setting it apart from other emerging psychedelic therapies.
Despite its off-label status, ketamine has shown remarkable efficacy in treating various mental health conditions. A 2023 study demonstrated that ketamine is non-inferior (similar effectiveness) as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for treatment-resistant depression, without the cognitive side effects and significant procedural burden associated with ECT. This makes it an attractive option for those who’ve found little relief from conventional treatments.
Combining Ketamine with Psychotherapy for Optimal Results
Combining ketamine with psychotherapy leads to more profound and lasting results. This integrated approach, known as ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, leverages the neuroplasticity-enhancing effects of ketamine to make psychotherapy more effective.
The dissociative effects of ketamine create a unique mental state that allows for deep introspection and emotional processing. When guided by a therapist, this can lead to breakthroughs in addressing long-standing mental health issues, potentially offering a more cost-effective and efficient path to wellness compared to traditional therapies.
The Cost of Ketamine Therapy in Canada
Ketamine therapy delivers better results and is more cost-effective than traditional methods in the long run. Let’s break down the financial aspects of this treatment to help you make an informed decision.
Average Cost of Ketamine Therapy in Canada
The average cost of ketamine therapy in Canada varies depending on the administration method and whether psychotherapy is included. Intravenous (IV) ketamine infusions generally range from $375 to $850 per session, with a complete treatment course of 6 to 8 initial sessions costing between $2,250 and $6,800. When ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is included, which is crucial for improving response rates and achieving optimal results, the cost ranges from $800 to $1,400 per session. Psychotherapy sessions are typically 1-2.5 hours long, with rates varying between $130 and $250 per hour depending on the therapist’s training and experience.
Intramuscular (IM) ketamine injections are somewhat less expensive, ranging from $500 to $800 per session. Sublingual ketamine lozenges or tablets cost between $300 and $600 per dose, while intranasal (IN) sprays, such as Spravato (esketamine), range from $250 to $800 per treatment. It’s important to note that these prices can vary based on location, clinic, and individual treatment plans, and may not include additional costs such as consultations or psychotherapy sessions.
| Therapy Session Type | Low (CAD) | High (CAD) |
| Intravenous (IV) Infusion | $375 | $850 |
| Intramuscular (IM) Injection | $500 | $800 |
| Sublingual (SL) Lozenges | $300 | $600 |
| Intranasal (IN) Spray | $250 | $800 |
| Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (All) | $800 | $1,400 |
Factors Influencing Ketamine Therapy Cost
Several factors can impact the cost of ketamine therapy. The primary factor is the administration method. Intravenous ketamine, which offers the highest bioavailability (the ability of a substance to be absorbed by the body), is generally more expensive than other forms like nasal sprays or lozenges. The frequency and duration of treatment sessions also influences the overall cost.
Additionally, the inclusion of psychotherapy sessions can affect the price. At Field Trip Health, we recommend combining ketamine with psychotherapy for optimal results. While this may increase the initial cost, it can lead to more profound and lasting improvements, potentially reducing the need for ongoing treatments and proving more cost-effective in the long term.
Insurance Coverage for Ketamine Treatments
Insurance coverage for ketamine therapy in Canada is a complex topic. As ketamine’s use for mental health conditions is considered “off-label”, many standard insurance plans don’t cover it directly. However, there’s a growing trend among private insurance providers to recognize the efficacy of ketamine therapy, especially when combined with psychotherapy. At Field Trip Health, about 50% of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy costs are eligible under psychotherapy coverage, while to a lesser extent we are seeing some nursing coverage benefits covering the other portion of treatment costs. I recommend checking with your insurance provider about coverage options. Our team can assist you in navigating this process and provide the necessary documentation to support your insurance claims.
Choosing the Right Ketamine Therapy Provider
Selecting the right ketamine therapy provider is vital. You need a clinic that offers not just ketamine, but a comprehensive approach to your wellness. Let’s explore the criteria so that you can make an informed decision.
What to Look for in a Ketamine Therapy Clinic
When choosing a ketamine therapy clinic, prioritize those with a strong medical background and experience in mental health treatments. Look for clinics that offer a combination of ketamine therapy and psychotherapy, as this integrated approach may yield better results and reduce chances of an unpleasant or dysphoric experience. The clinic should have a team of qualified professionals, including physicians, nurses, and trained therapists.
You should also consider the clinic’s treatment protocols and dosing strategies. A reputable provider will tailor the treatment to your specific needs, adjusting the dosage and frequency based on your response. They should also have clear procedures for managing any potential side effects or adverse reactions during ketamine therapy.
The Advantages of Choosing Field Trip Health for Ketamine Treatment
Field Trip Health stands out in the landscape of ketamine therapy providers for multiple important reasons. We offer a holistic approach to mental health treatment, combining the use of ketamine with evidence-based psychotherapy. Our team comprises experienced mental health professionals who understand the nuances of treatment-resistant conditions and the potential of ketamine as a breakthrough treatment.
Another one of our key advantages is our commitment to personalized care. We don’t believe in across-the-board solutions. Instead, we create individualized treatment plans that consider your unique mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This tailored approach leads to more effective outcomes and can potentially reduce the overall ketamine therapy cost in the long run.
Research on ketamine therapy has shown the benefits of cumulative treatment, with dose finding studies showing twice weekly being as effective as more frequent treatment. Cumulative benefits are seen in studies until the third week of treatment, and therefore standard ketamine therapy protocols recommend six treatment sessions. However, we recognize everyone’s situation is different. Some care is better than no care. At Field Trip Health we aspire to make access to life changing mental health care accessible.
Success Stories: How Ketamine Therapy at Field Trip Health Has Helped Canadians
I’ve witnessed numerous success stories of Canadians finding relief through ketamine-assisted therapy. Many of our patients have experienced significant improvements in their depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms after struggling for years with conventional treatments. These individuals often report a renewed sense of hope and an improved quality of life after completing their ketamine therapy sessions.
One patient, who had battled treatment-resistant depression for over a decade, described their experience at Field Trip Health as “transformative.” They noted that the combination of ketamine and integrated psychotherapy sessions provided them with new insights and coping mechanisms they hadn’t achieved through years of traditional therapy alone. This holistic approach not only addressed their immediate symptoms but also equipped them with tools for long-term mental wellness.
The Future of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
The field of ketamine-assisted therapy is rapidly evolving. As we look to the future, it’s clear that this approach is just the beginning of a new era in mental health treatment.
Research on Other Psychedelics for Mental Health Treatment
Research on other psychedelics for mental health treatment is gaining momentum. MDMA, psilocybin, and LSD are showing promising results in clinical trials for various mental health conditions. These substances are being studied for their potential to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and addiction, among other disorders.
I am closely following these developments and I am actively engaging in Health Canada approved research on these compounds. Although these substances aren’t yet legally available for therapeutic use in Canada, the research suggests they could offer powerful tools for mental health treatment in the future. As with ketamine, the focus is on using these substances in controlled, therapeutic settings to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
How Ketamine Therapy Paves the Way for Innovative Mental Health Solutions
Ketamine therapy’s high success rate in treating mental health conditions has challenged traditional approaches to mental healthcare. This has led to increased interest and investment in researching alternative treatments, including other psychedelics.
The success of ketamine therapy is encouraging researchers and clinicians to explore new paradigms in mental health treatment, focusing on rapid-acting interventions that can provide relief and promote neuroplasticity while balancing effectiveness with affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
A single ketamine therapy session in Canada typically costs between $250 and $850, depending on the type of ketamine used, type of treatment and the clinic’s location. IV, intramuscular, intranasal, and sublingual ketamine are the most common forms, with intranasal treatments often being more expensive.
Provincial health insurance in Canada generally does not cover ketamine therapy, including IV ketamine and intranasal ketamine treatments. While esketamine (SPRAVATO) is approved by Health Canada for depression treatment, it is not covered by government plans. Patients typically need to explore private insurance or financing options to manage the ketamine therapy cost.
A full treatment course of ketamine therapy typically involves 6 to 9 sessions during the initial phase, administered over 3 to 5 weeks. Maintenance sessions may follow, based on individual needs, to sustain the treatment effectiveness for depression treatment and mental health improvement.
Yes, there are additional costs associated with ketamine therapy beyond the administration itself. These can include initial consultations, psychiatric evaluations, ongoing therapy sessions, and medication costs. Private clinics may also charge for ketamine-assisted therapy, SPRAVATO nasal spray, and maintenance ketamine sessions.
Yes, you can claim ketamine therapy expenses on your taxes in Canada as eligible medical expenses. This includes costs for IV ketamine and intranasal ketamine treatments for conditions like treatment-resistant depression. Ensure you have receipts and any required prescriptions or certifications from a medical practitioner to support your claim.
Yes, there are financing options available for ketamine therapy in Canada. Private clinics often offer payment plans and work with medical credit providers to provide patient financing options, which can help manage the cost for ketamine therapy sessions and ketamine-assisted therapy programs.
Traditional therapy sessions typically range from $130 to $250 per hour. While it’s possible to spend around $3,000 on 12 sessions with a good therapist, results can vary. In contrast, ketamine-assisted therapy, which can cost $4,000-$8,400 for a full course, often leads to significant breakthroughs within just a few weeks. Although ketamine therapy is more expensive upfront, many clients find it more effective, potentially saving time and money in the long run.
About the Author
Dr. Mario Nucci MD CCFP is a licensed Family Physician with a passion for mental health and the development of new therapies. He is actively engaged in research with a faculty associate professorship at Northern Ontario School of Medicine, and research collaborations with the University of Ottawa, University of Calgary, Lakehead University, Concordia University and Vancouver Island University.
Dr. Nucci is the founder of Bay and Algoma Health Centre in 2019, a walk-in and addiction medicine clinic. He founded the Canadian Centre for Psychedelic Healing in 2019, now operating as Field Trip Health, providing cutting edge mental health care in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, and at-home.
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