Protocols

KAP vs Infusion-Only: Two Models of Ketamine Care

The same molecule supports very different care models. KAP and medical-model infusion clinics serve overlapping but distinct patient needs.

Written by: Ira ZootMedical review status: Not yet clinically reviewed.Last updated: June 4, 2026Evidence: Dore 2019; Drozdz 2022; clinical practice surveys

This page has been written and edited by the publisher. It has not been reviewed by a licensed clinician.

Quick answer

Which is right for me?

If your primary need is symptom relief from severe depression and you have access to ongoing therapy elsewhere, infusion-only can be appropriate. If you want to actively work with what surfaces — trauma, relational patterns, meaning — KAP is usually the better fit.

Side-by-side comparison

Dimension	KAP	Infusion-only
Primary clinician	Therapist + prescriber	Anesthesiologist / psychiatrist
Typical modality	Sublingual or IM	IV
Session length	2-3 hours	45-60 minutes
Dose intent	Psychedelic / experiential	Sub-psychedelic, antidepressant
Frequency	Weekly to monthly	2-3x/week induction
Integration built in	Yes	Usually no
Cost per session	$400-$1,500	$400-$800
Insurance	Therapy may bill; medication rarely covered	Rarely covered (Spravato is exception)

What KAP adds

Pre-session preparation focused on intentions and history.
Therapist presence during the session for emotional safety.
Structured integration appointments after each medicine session.
Continuity of relationship across the arc of treatment.

What infusion-only adds

Faster, more reliable symptom relief for severe depression.
Medical oversight optimized for cardiovascular safety.
More efficient for patients who already have a strong therapist elsewhere.

Hybrid is common

Many patients start with IV induction for symptom relief, then transition to KAP or therapy-supported maintenance to consolidate gains. Ask whether your clinic supports this hand-off.

About the author

Ira Zoot

Publisher and editor of Ketalux, based in Chicago, Illinois. Ira is a ketamine therapy patient, not a clinician. This is editorial review, not medical review: Ira is not a licensed clinician and does not provide diagnosis or medical care. Ketalux does not accept compensation from providers in exchange for favorable editorial coverage, evidence ratings, recommendations, patient referrals, or organic provider ranking. Read the full publisher disclosure →

Educational use only. The content on this page is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ketamine and related therapies carry risks and are appropriate only under qualified medical supervision. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional about your individual situation. Information may change as research evolves.