Veteran’s Perceptions of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Depression and End-of-Life (KAP)

This observational cohort study (n=30) will explore how veterans aged 65 and older enrolled in VA healthcare perceive ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) for depression and end-of-life distress.

The study, conducted by the Albany Research Institute at Stratton VA Medical Center, will gather both qualitative and quantitative data through interviews and questionnaires.

Participants will complete symptom screening questionnaires and then take part in a recorded interview using a story-completion approach, where they respond to a scenario involving a fictitious veteran considering KAP for depression and later for end-of-life care. Researchers will analyse the responses to identify common themes, attitudes, and concerns. The findings aim to inform educational efforts and the potential implementation of KAP within the VA system.

Trial Details

The goal of this exploratory, mixed-method design study is to gather qualitative and quantitative data obtained through interviews and questionnaires with veterans who are currently enrolled at the VA for healthcare. The main question this study aims to answer is: How do veterans aged 65+ who are enrolled for care at the VA understand ketamine assisted psychotherapy for depression and for end-of-life distress? Using a story-completion approach, participants will be provided with a brief story starter involving a fictitious character and scenario and asking them to complete the story. Few contextual details will be offered about the character. In responding to ambiguous cues, participants are thought to project their conscious and subconscious perceptions about the phenomenon in question onto the story, a useful method for exploring stigmatized topics. The purpose of this exercise is to ascertain the participants attitudes and perceptions regarding ketamine assisted psychotherapy.

Trial Number NCT06824532

Data attribution

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