Description

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Andrea Schwieger, a certified registered nurse anesthetist who has journeyed from the high-intensity world of critical care and anesthesia to the cutting edge of mental health treatment.  Andrea graduated from a top-ranked anesthesia school in the United States and served as an intensive care nurse early in her career before becoming board-certified to lead surgical teams in the safe anesthetic care of patients. Drawing from her extensive medical background and personal healing journey, Andrea has become a leading voice in the safe and effective use of ketamine-assisted therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, and chronic pain.

Their conversation unpacks how ketamine differs from traditional antidepressants, why preparation and integration are vital for lasting results, and what patients can expect during sessions. Andrea highlights the importance of a supportive environment, the role of music in shaping the inner experience, and the unique physical and emotional sensations that often arise during infusions.

Together, Nicky and Andrea also explore common misconceptions about ketamine, the distinctions between ketamine and esketamine, and the various methods of administration. They discuss ketamine’s ability to act as a powerful “pattern interrupt” for entrenched emotional responses, its compatibility with existing mental health medications, and its potential to provide relief when other treatments have failed.

This insightful dialogue offers listeners a comprehensive look at the healing potential of ketamine therapy, underscoring its safety, its depth, and the profound impact it can have when delivered with skilled guidance in a supportive setting.

Takeaways:

• • Ketamine therapy is a shift from physical to mental health.
  • Ketamine is legal and FDA-approved for anesthesia since the 1970s.
  • It works through the glutamate pathway, unlike traditional antidepressants.
  • Preparation and integration are crucial for lasting results.
  • Patients often struggle to articulate their experiences post-infusion.
  • Ketamine is safe for those on SSRIs and other mental health medications.
  • Ketamine is not suitable for individuals with a history of psychiatric breaks.
  • The experience can vary widely among individuals.
  • Patients often need guidance to integrate their experiences.
  • The session environment is designed to be comfortable and introspective.
  • Music significantly influences the ketamine experience.
  • Choosing the right playlist can enhance therapeutic outcomes.
  • Post-session recovery is crucial for integration.
  • Physical sensations during ketamine can include floating and expansion.
  • Ketamine addiction is primarily associated with street use, not clinical settings.
  • IV ketamine allows for more precise dosing during sessions.
  • Ketamine acts as a pattern interrupt for emotional responses.
  • Support from professionals is essential for safe ketamine experiences.

Connect with me:

https://nickyYyoga.com

https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity

support@nickyYyoga.com

Connect with Andrea:

https://www.thewellbeingcompany.com/

Andrea@thewellbeingcompany.com

Keywords: ketamine therapy, ketamine infusion, IV ketamine, mental health, anesthesia, IV clinic, psychedelics, integration, mental health medications, healing process, ketamine, PTSD, depression, anxiety, addiction, psychedelic therapy, recovery, trauma, IV infusion, psychedelic safety