Instituto Dr. Scheib

In GB, ketamine therapy is often offered as a standalone treatment, with limited integration of other therapeutic modalities. While ketamine infusions alone can provide temporary relief, the lack of comprehensive support may limit long-term outcomes for individuals with complex mental health needs.
Dr. Scheib, a leading expert in the field of ketamine therapy, emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

“At our clinic, we understand that mental health is complex and multifaceted,” says Dr. Scheib. “That’s why we offer a comprehensive approach that goes beyond ketamine infusions alone.”

Combining ketamine therapy with other evidence-based therapies, such as psychotherapy, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), neurofeedback, and hypnosis, offers a comprehensive approach to mental wellness and can lead to even greater outcomes.
Each of these therapies targets different aspects of mental health, working synergistically to address the root causes of symptoms and promote long-term recovery.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation:

rTMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain using magnetic fields. It has been shown to complement the effects of ketamine by targeting specific areas associated with mood regulation. It is commonly used as a treatment for various psychiatric and neurological conditions. Here’s how rTMS works:

1. Stimulation: During an rTMS session, a device called a TMS coil is placed on the scalp, targeting specific regions of the brain associated with the condition being treated. The coil delivers rapid and repetitive magnetic pulses, which pass through the skull and stimulate nerve cells in the targeted area.

2. Brain Activation: The magnetic pulses induce small electrical currents in the brain, leading to the depolarization of neurons and the release of neurotransmitters. This activation of brain cells can modulate neural activity in the targeted area and influence broader brain networks involved in mood regulation, pain perception, and cognitive function.

3. Treatment Sessions: rTMS treatment typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks. The frequency, intensity, and duration of the sessions may vary depending on the specific condition being treated and individual response to treatment.

4. Therapeutic Effects: The therapeutic effects of rTMS are thought to result from the modulation of brain activity and the normalization of abnormal neural circuits associated with psychiatric and neurological disorders. Research suggests that rTMS can induce long-lasting changes in brain function, leading to improvements in symptoms and overall functioning.

rTMS has been approved by regulatory authorities in many countries, including the United States and the European Union, for the treatment of various conditions, including:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Schizophrenia
• Chronic pain syndromes, such as fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain

Overall, rTMS offers a safe and effective treatment option for individuals who have not responded to traditional therapies or who may prefer non-invasive alternatives to medication. It is typically well-tolerated, with minimal side effects, and can be performed in an outpatient setting under the supervision of trained healthcare professionals.

Psychotherapy: 

Psychotherapy is a treatment approach aimed at addressing psychological problems and emotional difficulties through talk and other therapeutic techniques. It is based on the idea that improving understanding and processing of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can help alleviate psychological distress and promote overall well-being. It helps individuals develop coping strategies, challenge negative thought patterns, and explore underlying emotional issues.

There are various approaches and techniques in psychotherapy, applied by qualified psychotherapists depending on the needs and goals of the individual patient. Some of the most common forms of psychotherapy include:

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach focuses on identifying and changing dysfunctional thinking and behavior patterns to cope with psychological problems. It often involves homework and practical exercises to learn new coping strategies.

2. Psychoanalysis and Psychodynamic Therapy: These forms of therapy aim to explore deeper unconscious conflicts and patterns influencing behavior and emotions. They are based on the theories of Freud and other psychoanalysts and often involve regular conversations between therapist and patient.

3. Humanistic Therapies: These include approaches such as Carl Rogers’ Person-Centered Therapy, where the therapist adopts a supportive, non-directive approach and focuses on helping the patient discover and utilize their own resources.

4. Family Therapy and Couples Therapy: These forms of psychotherapy focus on the relationships and interactions within families or couples, aiming to improve communication patterns, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships.

5. Integrative Therapy: Some therapists combine elements of different therapy approaches to develop a tailored treatment for their patients. This may involve a broader range of interventions and techniques to address individual needs and goals.

Psychotherapy can help address a variety of mental health problems and emotional challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, eating disorders, and personality disorders. It provides a safe and supportive space to explore issues, build self-awareness, and develop healthy coping mechanisms. It is important to note that psychotherapy is often used as part of a broader treatment plan, which may also include medication, self-help strategies, and other interventions.

Neurofeedback:

Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback or neurotherapy, is a non-invasive technique that aims to train the brain to regulate its electrical activity more effectively. Neurofeedback training measures brainwave activity, can enhance self-regulation and improve overall brain function.  It utilizes real-time feedback of brainwave patterns to teach self-regulation of brain function. Here’s how neurofeedback works:

1. Brainwave Monitoring: During a neurofeedback session, electrodes are placed on the scalp to measure the brain’s electrical activity, known as brainwaves. This is typically done using an electroencephalogram (EEG) machine.

2. Feedback Mechanism: The EEG machine processes the brainwave signals and provides real-time feedback to the individual, often in the form of auditory or visual cues. For example, a person might hear a tone or see a visual display that changes based on their brainwave activity.

3. Learning and Training: Through this feedback mechanism, individuals learn to recognize and modify their brainwave patterns. They are guided to produce specific brainwave patterns associated with improved cognitive function, emotional regulation, or symptom relief.

4. Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards or encouragement, are often used to reinforce desired brainwave patterns. Over time, the brain learns to produce these patterns more consistently and efficiently.

5. Neuroplasticity: Neurofeedback harnesses the brain’s ability to reorganize and adapt its structure and function, known as neuroplasticity. By repeatedly practicing desired brainwave patterns, neural networks can strengthen, leading to lasting changes in brain function and behavior.

Overall, neurofeedback offers a safe and non-invasive way to train the brain and promote optimal functioning. With proper guidance and support from trained professionals, individuals can experience improvements in their symptoms and quality of life.

Additionally, hypnosis can be used to address subconscious barriers and facilitate positive behavioral changes.

“At our clinic, we believe in empowering our patients with a toolbox of therapeutic modalities,” explains Dr. Scheib. “By combining ketamine therapy with other treatments, we can address the root causes of mental illness and provide lasting relief.”