A life-limiting diagnosis can bring profound emotional, psychological, and spiritual challenges. Alongside grief, fear, anxiety, and depression, many people find themselves grappling with questions of meaning, identity, connection, and mortality.

At Upwell, we offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) as a supportive approach for individuals experiencing psychiatric and existential distress related to serious or terminal illness.

Research over the past two decades has demonstrated that psychedelic-assisted therapies may help reduce depression, anxiety, death-related distress, and existential suffering in people facing advanced illness. Studies involving psilocybin have found rapid and sustained improvements in emotional wellbeing, quality of life, spiritual wellbeing, and acceptance of mortality. While psilocybin remains federally illegal and is not currently available as a medical treatment in Maine, ketamine is a legal, FDA-approved medication that can be prescribed off-label and used within a psychotherapeutic framework. Emerging research suggests ketamine may also help alleviate end-of-life distress while increasing feelings of connection, meaning, and psychological flexibility.

Guided by Jaclyn Burskey, PMHNP, our approach is grounded in the Roots to Thrive framework, which honors embodiment, inner healing intelligence, and trauma-informed care. Every KAP journey begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to determine whether ketamine is a safe and appropriate option. Preparation sessions help cultivate intention, emotional resources, and a supportive therapeutic foundation before medicine sessions take place.

For individuals with advanced or terminal illness, we may offer in-home KAP services on a limited basis, depending on location, with telehealth components incorporated when appropriate. This model can help reduce barriers to care and allow treatment to occur in the comfort and familiarity of home.

KAP is not intended to remove the realities of serious illness. Rather, it may help create space for greater peace, connection, self-compassion, and meaning during a profoundly important chapter of life. Each person's experience is unique, and the work is guided by curiosity, respect, and the therapeutic relationship rather than any predetermined outcome.