A company specializing in the use of ketamine as a type of therapy for mental health has plans for a clinic in Vancouver.
Field Trip Health launched its first clinic in Toronto in March of 2020, just as the pandemic arrived in North America. Since then they've opened up locations in the U.S. and Amsterdam, Netherlands. Now they're looking to Canada again, announcing clinics in Fredericton and Vancouver (along with Seattle).
While locations for Fredericton and Seattle are set up, no site has been specified for Vancouver.
"As we continue to grow into new markets, the potential to positively change people’s lives is endless," says Dr. Ryan Yermus, the company's chef clinical officer, in a press release. "We are incredibly excited to deliver best-in-class psychedelic therapies to the communities in Seattle, Vancouver and Fredericton.”
The clinics use a version of ketamine Field Trip has developed to help treat things like depression and anxiety.
"Ketamine interacts with some of your brain’s neurotransmitters. Its effects can include relieving anxiety and pain relief, and acting as an antidepressant," states their website. "Under medical supervision, lower doses of ketamine can relax your mind and allow you to temporarily disengage from your routine thought patterns. When combined with psychotherapy, studies found it can be helpful in reducing anxiety and depression."
In Canada, ketamine is a Schedule 1 controlled substance, alongside opium and cocaine.
