Ketamine-assisted group psychotherapy integrating cognitive processing therapy to address identity-based trauma: a pilot study

Introduction: Transgender and gender-expansive people experience high rates of depression, anxiety, and trauma-related distress, yet few evidence-based interventions are tailored to their needs. Kindred is a novel, group-based ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) program that integrates cognitive processing therapy (CPT) to address identity-based trauma.

Methods: This mixed-methods pilot study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of Kindred among eight transgender and gender-expansive adults. The nine-week group KAP intervention alternated ketamine dosing sessions with CPT-based cognitive skills-building and integration sessions in a community-based clinical setting. Quantitative measures assessed changes in mood, cognitive fusion, substance use, suicidality, trauma symptoms, and gender-related well-being from pre- to post-intervention, while qualitative interviews explored participants’ experiences and perceived mechanisms of change.

Results: The intervention was feasible and highly acceptable, with 100% retention and high satisfaction ratings. Participants reported significant reductions in depression, anxiety, and cognitive fusion scores, alongside qualitative reports of decreased shame, suicidality, and internalized transphobia. Participants reported that group belonging, peer validation, and shared identity were important therapeutic factors that enhanced the impact of ketamine and CPT.

Discussion: Findings suggest that Kindred is a feasible and promising intervention for addressing mental health symptoms of identity-based trauma among TGE adults. Integrating evidence-based psychotherapy, such as CPT, with KAP in a group setting may promote synergistic cognitive, emotional, and social mechanisms of healing while facilitating increased accessibility.