Elevate with Healing Pathways Psychological Services and Dr. Leona Kashersky
At Healing Pathways Psychological Services, led by Dr. Leona Kashersky, we believe in the transformative power of the therapeutic alliance between patient and psychotherapist in delivering effective Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP). Our approach represents a paradigm shift in mental health treatment, emphasizing the importance of a trusted therapeutic relationship alongside innovative treatments like Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP).
The Limitations of Conventional Treatments
Traditionally, mental health problems have been treated as brain diseases caused by chemical imbalances, managed primarily through pharmaceuticals. However, for many individuals, these treatments fall short. Approximately 30% of patients diagnosed with major depression are resistant to conventional treatments, and while SSRIs can be effective short-term, they rarely provide long-term improvements in quality of life.
The Promise of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy offers a new approach to mental health treatment. This method not only leverages the potential of psychedelics as therapeutic agents but also places a strong emphasis on psychotherapy. A key component of this approach is the therapeutic alliance—the collaborative, trust-based relationship between patient and psychotherapist. This alliance is essential for setting and achieving treatment goals, providing emotional support, and creating a safe space for patients to explore deeper content during their sessions.
Proven Success of Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy
Clinical trials consistently demonstrate that the integration of psychedelics with psychotherapy leads to better outcomes than using psychedelic medicines alone:
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
A 2019 study by Jennifer Dore found significant decreases in depression and anxiety scores when patients received KAP in a therapeutic setting compared to ketamine alone.
MDMA-Assisted Psychotherapy
A 2021 study by Mitchell et al. showed that MDMA-assisted therapy had an effect size more than double that of MDMA alone for severe PTSD.
Psilocybin-Assisted Psychotherapy
A 2021 study by Davis et al. indicated that stronger therapeutic alliances correlated with better outcomes for patients with major depressive disorder.
Our Patient-Centered Collaborative Care Model
At Healing Pathways, we have built our practice around the therapeutic alliance. In collaboration with psychiatric support, our model ensures comprehensive care:
Medical Responsibilities
Our medical team manages patient eligibility, prescriptions, and outcome monitoring, ensuring all medical aspects of KAP are expertly handled.
Psychotherapy Responsibilities
Our mental health professionals provide preparation sessions, dosing journeys, and integration sessions, allowing patients to remain in therapy with their existing clinicians while receiving personalized treatment plans.
For more information, please contact us:
Healing Pathways Psychological Services, Inc
2710 X Street, Sacramento, CA 95818
healingpathways@sacramentocounseling.online