Dreamin Review: The Ketamine Breakthrough
By: Jasmin Roden, LMSW, CAADC, PMH-C
The Ketamine Breakthrough is an informative and accessible guide to one of the most promising—and controversial—new treatments in mental health: ketamine therapy. Written by Dr. Mike Dow and Ronan Levy. This book offers a compelling overview of how ketamine is revolutionizing the treatment of depression, PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain. One of the strengths of the book is how it bridges clinical science with practical application. The authors begin by unpacking the history of ketamine, from its roots as an anesthetic to its unexpected role as a rapid-acting antidepressant. They clearly explain the mechanisms of how ketamine works in the brain, particularly its effects on glutamate and neuroplasticity—complex topics that are made digestible for non-medical readers.
Subsequent chapters examine ketamine’s use in treating major depressive disorder, bipolar depression, PTSD, anxiety disorders, suicidality, and chronic pain syndromes. The authors clearly delineate the current state of empirical evidence, noting where randomized controlled trials support efficacy, and where further research is still required. They also explore the ethical considerations and regulatory challenges surrounding off-label use, including the rapid commercialization and variable standards across treatment centers.
Where The Ketamine Breakthrough really shines is in its compassionate tone. The authors recognize that many people who turn to ketamine do so after exhausting other options. They balance optimism with caution, presenting ketamine as a breakthrough but not a miracle cure. This balanced perspective adds credibility to their argument and reinforces the book’s core message: healing is a journey, and ketamine can be a powerful catalyst—but not a shortcut. It walks through the different treatment formats—IV infusions, nasal sprays, lozenges, and even at-home protocols—with pros, cons, and safety considerations. The authors also emphasize the importance of integration therapy and guided support to make the most of ketamine’s effects, rather than relying on it as a standalone solution.
This book stands out not as a technical manual, but as a hybrid work that merges accessible science with practical guidance for clinicians and patients navigating the evolving landscape of psychedelic medicine. Importantly, The Ketamine Breakthrough devotes significant attention to the psychotherapeutic aspects of ketamine treatment.
In summary, The Ketamine Breakthrough serves as a timely and pragmatic guide to the clinical use of ketamine. It bridges the gap between psychiatry, psychotherapy, and integrative medicine and encourages a thoughtful, patient-centered approach. As ketamine continues to gain traction within mainstream psychiatry, this book offers a grounded, clinically informed resource for providers seeking to understand and responsibly apply this novel intervention.
Readability: Overall, this book is a valuable resource for patients, clinicians, and anyone interested in the future of mental health treatment. It's well-researched, reader-friendly, and refreshingly hopeful.
Recommended Reader: The book is particularly useful for readers who are considering ketamine therapy or are simply curious about it. Psychiatrists, psychotherapists, nurse practitioners, and allied mental health professionals exploring ketamine-assisted therapy could benefit from reading this book.
It is important to note that these books and other resources are not appropriate or meant to replace mental health or substance abuse treatment. If your symptoms are impacting your daily life, please seek treatment with an individual therapist or mental health provider.
