📝What does ATMA CENA treat?
📝What is integrative health?
📝Where can I access ATMA CENA’s services?
📝Does insurance cover these treatments?
📝What is the main goal of ATMA CENA?
📝What is the mission of ATMA CENA?
📝Why should I choose ATMA CENA?
📝How did ATMA CENA begin?
📝How do I get started?
📝What is general therapy?
📝What general therapy modalities does ATMA CENA offer?
📝Can I combine general therapy with other treatments?
📝What does General Therapy treat?
📝How do I know if therapy is right for me?
📝How do I find the right therapist for me?
📝Confidentiality: Is therapy private, and who has access to my information?
📝How much does therapy cost, and does insurance cover it?
📝Alberta
📝Are there low-cost or sliding-scale options?
📝Do you offer virtual therapy?
📝Understanding rTMS – Treatment, Safety, and Eligibility
📝What is rTMS, and how does it work?
📝What conditions is rTMS commonly used to treat?
📝Is rTMS a safe treatment option?
📝How is rTMS different from other treatments like medications or therapy?
📝Why do you need multiple rTMS treatments?
📝Who is a suitable candidate for rTMS?
📝Are there conditions or circumstances where rTMS is not recommended?
📝Can I have rTMS if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
📝Does rTMS interact with medications or other treatments?
📝What are the potential side effects of rTMS?
📝Are there any long-term risks associated with rTMS?
📝What should I do if I experience side effects?
📝Is rTMS supported by clinical research?
📝Are there new advancements or experimental uses of rTMS?
📝rTMS Sessions – What to Expect, Costs, and Results
📝What happens during an rTMS session?
📝Does rTMS hurt?
📝How long does each session last?
📝How many sessions will I need?
📝What does the equipment look like?
📝Do I need to prepare for rTMS sessions in any way?
📝How effective is rTMS for treating depression or other conditions?
📝When can I expect to notice results from rTMS?
📝Can rTMS cure my condition, or will I need ongoing treatment?
📝What happens if rTMS does not work for me?
📝How much does rTMS cost, and is it covered by insurance?
📝Can I drive or return to work immediately after a session?
📝What should I do if I miss a session?
📝Will I need follow-up care or maintenance sessions?
📝How can I maximize the benefits of rTMS after treatment ends?
📝Can I combine rTMS with other therapies like psychotherapy or medications?
📝What is Ketamine Assisted Therapy?
📝Is Ketamine AssistedTherapy safe for everyone?
📝Who is Ketamine Assisted Therapy for?
📝Do I need a referral from my physician?
📝How many sessions are needed?
📝How is Ketamine administered?
📝What are the effects of Ketamine during a session?
📝How do I care for myself after a session?
📝How will I feel after my session?
📝Why would Ketamine Assisted Therapy work when no other drugs have helped me?
📝Is Ketamine addictive?
📝What does a KAT psychedelic session feel like?
📝What does a KAT psycholytic session feel like?
📝Can Ketamine be done in groups?
📝 What is Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT)?
📝 What are psychedelics?
📝 Am I a candidate for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT)?
📝 Are there any medical conditions that would prevent me from receiving this treatment?
📝 What age groups can have PAT?
📝 Is MDMA legal?
📝 Am I a candidate for Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy (PAT)?
📝 Are there any medical conditions that would prevent me from receiving this treatment?
📝 Is this treatment safe? (for psilocybin)
📝 How effective is this treatment? (for psilocybin)
📝 Who can participate in the CoCare Program?
📝 What are the different ways I can be involved in the CoCare Program?
📝 Do I need special training to join the CoCare Program?
📝 What are the costs for therapists to join CoCare?
📝 How does billing work?
📝 What are the treatment options available through CoCare?
📝 What training programs are available through ATMA CENA?
📝 How does ATMA CENA ensure patient safety?
📝 What are the eligibility criteria for patients?
📝 What distinguishes ATMA CENA’s program from other providers?
📝 How do I join the CoCare Program?
📝 Can I visit an ATMA CENA clinic before referring a client?
PAT involves the use of psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin or MDMA, in conjunction with therapeutic sessions to enhance emotional processing and facilitate healing. This approach aims to create profound psychological experiences that can help individuals address mental health concerns, specifically those who have not responded to traditional treatments. The therapy is conducted under the guidance of trained professionals, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for exploring deep-seated emotions and patterns.
Psychedelics are substances that alter a person’s senses, thinking, and mood. Common psychedelics and the ones that we use at ATMA CENA include psilocybin, MDMAand ketamine.
Psilocybin is a psychedelic compound found in “magic mushrooms”. It is used in combination with therapy to treat mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, addiction, and end-of-life anxiety.
Psilocybin, the active compound in certain mushrooms, works on the brain primarily by interacting with serotonin receptors, particularly the 5-HT2A receptor. When ingested, psilocybin is converted to psilocin, which mimics serotonin and leads to altered perception, mood, and cognition. This interaction enhances neural connectivity and communication between different brain regions, often resulting in increased emotional openness and introspection. Additionally, psilocybin can reduce activity in the default mode network (DMN), a brain network associated with self-referential thoughts, potentially facilitating a sense of ego dissolution and promoting therapeutic insights
Psilocybin can elicit mystical type experiences, including an increased sense of unity, transcendence of time and space, loss of self, and euphoria.The effects of psilocybin can vary widely depending on the dose, individual sensitivity, and the setting in which it’s consumed. Common experiences include visual and auditory hallucinations, altered perception of time, and enhanced emotional experiences. Many users report feelings of euphoria, interconnectedness, and introspection, often leading to profound insights. Physical sensations may also change, sometimes resulting in a sense of lightness or heaviness.
Psilocybin is illegal for recreational use, but recent studies and clinical trials have shown breakthrough results in a therapeutic setting. Access to Psilocybin is through Health Canada’s Special Access Program, which we facilitate at ATMA CENA.
MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic drug that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. Often referred to as “Ecstasy” or “Molly,” it enhances mood, increases feelings of empathy and emotional connection, and can heighten sensory perception. MDMA’s therapeutic applications are PTSD treatment and other mental health conditions.
MDMA works on the brain by primarily increasing the release of neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Upon ingestion, MDMA prompts a significant release of serotonin, which enhances mood, promotes feelings of empathy and emotional closeness, and can lead to sensory enhancement. Additionally, MDMA increases dopamine levels, contributing to its stimulant effects and feelings of euphoria. By impacting these neurotransmitter systems, MDMA alters perception, mood, and emotional processing, which can be beneficial in therapeutic contexts
MDMA typically produces a range of effects that can include heightened feelings of euphoria, increased emotional warmth and empathy, enhanced sensory perception, and a sense of connection with others. Users often report increased energy, a feeling of well-being, and a reduction in anxiety. Physical sensations may become more intense, and music or touch can feel particularly pleasurable.
MDMA is illegal for recreational use, but the FDA has granted it a “breakthrough therapy designation” for use in a therapeutic setting. Access to MDMA is through Health Canada’s Special Access Program, which we facilitate at ATMA CENA
PAT may be suitable for individuals with conditions such as depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), or substance use disorders, especially when traditional treatments have been ineffective. Eligibility is determined through a comprehensive assessment by a qualified healthcare provider, considering your medical history, current health status, and specific therapeutic needs.
Certain medical conditions may contraindicate PAT including but not limited to:severe cardiovascular issues, history of psychosis or schizophrenia, uncontrolled hypertension, severe liver or kidney disease. We will provide a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to identify any potential risks
PAT is generally considered for adults aged 18 and over. Research on its safety and efficacy in minors is limited, and such treatments are typically not recommended for individuals under 18.
It is a requirement in Alberta to obtain a referral. If you do not have a provider to complete a referral, ATMA CENA can assist in this step. You can view and download the referral form here (https://www.atmacena.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/ATMA-CENA-Referral-Form-1.pdf). Referral is NOT an requirement in Ontario.
In Alberta it is a requirement to have a referral into the program, either by a Registered psychologist that you are working with, or your General Practitioner/Nurse Practitioner. If you do not currently have a relationship with one of these providers, our team can support you with this.
Psilocybin: 4–6 hours, MDMA: 6–8 hours.
Licensed health professionals with specialized training in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy oversee the process, ensuring safety and therapeutic effectiveness.
Allpsilocybin and MDMA treatments through the SAP programare done individually.
Preparation may include:medical and psychological assessments, setting therapeutic intentions, establishing trust with the therapy team, avoiding eating 4 hours prior, and only drink clear fluids until 2 hours prior to session. This is to avoid interrupting your session and to reduce the risk of nausea.
Post-session experiences may involve:reflection on insights gained, emotional processing, integration sessions to incorporate experiences into daily life.
Support is available post-treatment. Contact your therapy provider to discuss any concerns or to schedule additional integration sessions. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or concerned for your well-being, contact a health line in your local area.
You should avoid working immediately after treatment, as rest and quiet time are essential for processing and recovery. Some schedule PAT sessions in the afternoon after a calm morning, but avoid activities that leave you rushed or preoccupied. The next day, mild headaches or fatigue may occur, so consider lighter tasks or taking time off.It’s advisable to take time off on the day of the session and possibly the following day to allow for rest and integration. Scheduling sessions before weekends or days off can facilitate this process.
Psychedelic therapy is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to limited research on safety in these populations.
It is recommended to have a designated support person (DSP) drive you to and from the appointment and assist you at home. If unavailable, you may use public transportation (at your cost) after resting in a quiet room until safe to leave. You’ll need to sign a release form if traveling without a DSP.
The SAP is a program through Health Canada in which health care professionals may request access to drugs that are not currently authorized for sale in Canada to treat patients with serious or life-threatening conditions. This is how ATMA CENA’s practitioners will apply for access for patients who qualify for MDMA-Assisted or Psilocybin-Assisted Therapy.
Eligibility is determined by the practitioner who will assess your condition and treatment history to decide if SAP is appropriate. Access to these drugs is only considered when conventional therapies have failed, are unsuitable or are unavailable. If you are felt to be an appropriate candidate, an application process can be started.
The SAP approval process is not guaranteed, and response varies and cantake anywhere from oneto 6 months.In urgent cases, such as for the treatment of end-of-life distress, the process is expedited but can still take weeks.
If you are not approved, we will do our best to support you in determining if an alternative treatment can help you such as Ketamine-Assisted Therapy and/or rTMS.
No. The deposit is non-refundable.
When conducted by trained professionals in a controlled setting, PAT has been shown to be safe for eligible individuals.
Possible side effects may include: nausea, anxiety, increased heart rate and blood pressure, temporary disorientation, dissociative effects, and visual or audible hallucinations. These effects are typically short-lived and managed by the care team. In many cases the side effects are part of the overall experience of taking psychedelics.
Research indicates that PAT can be effective for various mental health conditions, often providing relief when other treatments have failed. Individual responses vary.
Classic psychedelics like psilocybin are not considered addictive. While ketamine and MDMA have a potential for misuse, proper safeguards in therapeutic settings significantly mitigate this risk, making it a safe option when used responsibly under professional guidance.
Alberta is the first province in Canada to regulate Psychedelic Drug Treatment Standards (PDTS). Legal access to psilocybin and MDMA therapy is through Health Canada’s Special Access Program (SAP).
? It is best to avoid using psilocybin or MDMA while on medications that alter the serotonin system, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs23.
Psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) is generally considered safe for eligible individuals when conducted in regulated, controlled settings with trained professionals.
Integration involves reflecting on insights gained and incorporating them into daily life. At ATMA CENA, all of our PAT Programs offer a series of integration therapy sessions after your medicine session to assist you in this process.
The number of sessions varies. You can view our MDMA Program here (https://www.atmacena.com/mdma-assisted-therapy/) , and Psilocybin Program here (https://www.atmacena.com/psilocybin-assisted-therapy/) .
Support is always available post-treatment, contact your therapy provider to discuss any concerns or to schedule additional integration sessions.
Coverage for PAT is subject to the member’s plan maximums, existing plan coverage, and provider eligibility criteria. Members should review their specific plan details or contact Alberta Blue Cross for more information.
Please contact Blue Cross directly to discuss your concern.
Those undergoing Psychedelic Assisted Therapy (PAT) require someone to bring them safely to and from treatment and ensure the client has time and space to process the experience without having to share their experience with others. Those approved for PAT, are supplied with an orientation package to prepare for the session.
During your session you will be supported by well-trained providers. Those who have an approved aid to support their specific condition could be incorporated into the care plan.
