Navigating ‘k-land’: a qualitative exploration of participants’ experiences of ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for methamphetamine use disorder

Category	Detail
Condition	Methamphetamine Use Disorder (MAUD)
Key Mechanisms	Ketamine modulates glutamatergic signaling and enhances neuroplasticity, potentially facilitating emotional learning and engagement with psychotherapy.
Target Population	Individuals with Methamphetamine Use Disorder
Care Setting	Clinical environment providing structured psychotherapy

Participants experienced KAP as a multi-stage, context-dependent process.
Ketamine was perceived to create a temporary state of 'psychological space' supporting psychotherapy engagement.
Acceptability of KAP was generally high within a supportive clinical environment.
Behavioral changes in methamphetamine use were variable and contingent on ongoing therapeutic engagement.
Participants expressed uncertainty about the attribution of changes to ketamine, psychotherapy, or contextual factors.

Assessment of Methamphetamine Use Disorder should consider psychiatric and physical morbidity.

Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy may be considered as a novel approach for treatment.

Ongoing evaluation of participant engagement and behavioral changes is necessary.

Potential for variable behavioral change and uncertainty regarding the effects of ketamine versus psychotherapy.

Individuals diagnosed with Methamphetamine Use Disorder seeking treatment.

KAP may enhance receptivity to psychotherapy but requires integration of experiences for sustained change.

Ensure a supportive clinical environment to facilitate engagement.
Monitor participant experiences and perceptions throughout the treatment process.
Consider individual motivations and contextual factors in treatment planning.

Clinical Scorecard: Exploring Experiences of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Among Individuals with Methamphetamine Use Disorder: A Qualitative Study