There's more than just talking
THERAPEUTIC MENU
EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences
HYPNOTHERAPY
Hypnotherapy (sometimes called hypnotic suggestion) is a therapeutic practice that uses guided hypnosis to help a client reach a trance-like state of focus, concentration, diminished peripheral awareness, and heightened suggestibility. This state is similar to being completely absorbed in a book, movie, music, or even one's own thoughts or meditations. In it, a person is unusually responsive to an idea or image, but they are not under anyone’s “control.” Instead, a trained clinical hypnotherapist can help clients in this state relax and turn their attention inward to discover and utilize resources within themselves that can help them achieve desired behavioral changes or better manage pain or other physical concerns. Eventually, a client learns how to address their states of awareness on their own and in doing so, gain greater control of their physical and psychological responses.
DIRT THERAPY
Increases "feel-good" chemicals Research indicates that contact with soil introduces beneficial microbes that can increase serotonin levels and reduce anxiety. Petting animals, which exposes people to beneficial bacteria, also boosts positive neurochemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin.
Promotes mindfulness Focusing on a task like tending a garden or riding a mountain bike helps ground a person in the present moment, offering a respite from daily stressors.
Encourages resilience Observing how plants recover and grow after damage can offer a powerful lesson in resilience, which can be applied to personal challenges.
Improves physical health Outdoor activities naturally increase physical activity. Spending time outdoors also provides exposure to sunlight, which boosts vitamin D levels.
HCFA is partnering with local ranches and businesses to offer "dirt therapy" for those Responders looking to "work it out".
KETAMINE THERAPY
Unlike traditional antidepressants that target serotonin and dopamine, ketamine affects the brain's glutamate system and promotes neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to form new neural connections. The potential mechanism is as follows:
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Rapid action: Ketamine can produce rapid and robust improvements in mood, sometimes within hours or days, unlike conventional antidepressants which can take weeks or months.
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Synaptogenesis: By blocking N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors and activating other connections, ketamine leads to the release of molecules that help neurons communicate along new pathways. This process can reshape the brain's circuitry and break "stuck" thought patterns associated with depression.
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Integration with psychotherapy: In a model known as Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), the medication is used with counseling sessions. A therapist helps the patient integrate their experiences and insights from the ketamine session, facilitating long-term healing and personal growth.