Substance Use
Ketamine Therapy and an Integrative Approach to Alcohol Use and Habit Change at Evergood
Alcohol use and other entrenched habits often develop as coping strategies rather than conscious choices. Over time, these patterns become reinforced by stress, emotional pain, trauma, and changes in brain chemistry. For many people, willpower alone is not enough to create lasting change — not because of lack of effort, but because the brain has learned the habit well.
At Evergood, we approach alcohol use disorders and habit change as neurobiological, psychological, and behavioral processes, not moral failures. Ketamine-assisted therapy (KAT), when paired with structured therapeutic support, offers a promising option for people seeking meaningful change.
Why Habits Are Hard to Break
Alcohol use disorder and other compulsive habits are associated with:
-Altered reward circuitry in the brain
-Reduced cognitive flexibility
-Heightened stress and emotional reactivity
-Learned associations between relief and substance use
Over time, the brain becomes efficient at returning to familiar patterns, even when those patterns are no longer serving the individual.
Traditional treatments such as psychotherapy, medications, and support groups are effective for many people, but relapse remains common, especially when stress or emotional overwhelm is present.
How Ketamine Supports Habit Change
Ketamine acts primarily on the brain’s glutamate system, increasing neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections. This temporary shift can interrupt rigid habit loops and increase cognitive flexibility.
Research suggests ketamine may:
-Reduce craving and compulsive drive
-Increase psychological distance from habitual behaviors
-Improve mood and stress tolerance
-Enhance engagement in psychotherapy
Importantly, ketamine does not “remove” desire or act as a replacement substance. Instead, it creates a window of opportunity in which new behaviors and coping strategies can be learned more effectively.
Why Therapy Matters
Ketamine alone is not sufficient for sustained change. Without therapeutic support, insights may fade and habits often return.
At Evergood, ketamine is paired with:
-Preparation sessions to clarify goals and identify habit triggers
-Guided dosing sessions in a controlled clinical environment
-Integration therapy to translate insights into actionable changes
This approach helps individuals:
-Understand the emotional and behavioral drivers of alcohol use
-Develop alternative stress regulation strategies
-Rebuild routines, boundaries, and self-trust
-Reduce reliance on substances over time
The goal is not immediate abstinence unless clinically appropriate, but durable behavior change aligned with the individual’s values and health goals.
Clinical Expertise in Substance Use Care
Evergood’s care model is guided by Dr. Csilla Linzsky, Psychiatrist, who has specialized expertise in substance use disorders and addiction medicine. This ensures that alcohol use and habit-change programs are grounded in clinical best practices, careful screening, and thoughtful medication management when appropriate.
This psychiatric oversight is integrated with ongoing support from:
-Mikkeshia Daniels, FNP, PMHNP — Family & Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
-Hilary Shaw, LCSW, RD — Trauma Informed Therapist & Registered Dietitian
-Debbie Debreaux, LCSW — Trauma-Informed Therapist
Together, the team provides comprehensive, coordinated care across medical, psychological, and behavioral domains.
An Integrative Model for Sustainable Change
Alcohol use and habit patterns affect — and are affected by — the entire body. That’s why Evergood uses an integrative care model, which may include:
-Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
-Trauma-informed psychotherapy
-Nutrition and metabolic support to stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings
-Lifestyle and sleep optimization
-Nervous system regulation tools such as soundbed or vibroacoustic therapy
-IV nutrient therapy to support recovery and resilience
Addressing only the behavior without supporting the body and nervous system often limits long-term success.
Who This Approach May Be Right For
Ketamine-assisted therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:
-Struggle with alcohol use despite previous treatment attempts
-Use alcohol to manage stress, anxiety, or emotional pain
-Feel stuck in repetitive habits they want to change
-Are motivated to engage in therapy alongside medical treatment
Each person is carefully screened to ensure safety and clinical appropriateness.
Why Evergood
At Evergood, ketamine-assisted therapy is delivered by a credentialed, multidisciplinary team with experience in psychiatry, substance use treatment, therapy, and integrative medicine. We do not offer ketamine as a stand-alone intervention — because lasting change requires structure, accountability, and support.
Change Is a Process, Not a Moment
Alcohol use disorders and ingrained habits don’t form overnight, and they don’t resolve instantly. Ketamine-assisted therapy can help create the conditions for change, but real progress comes from consistent support, skill-building, and integration into daily life.
If you’re seeking a grounded, science-informed approach to habit change, Evergood offers care designed to support both the brain and the person.
Consult our Glossary
| Medical Term | Explanation |
|---|---|
| NMDA Receptor Antagonism | Ketamine turns down certain brain ‘volume knobs’ to reset activity. |
| Glutamate Surge | A rush of the brain’s main ‘go’ signal, like energy waking up circuits. |
| AMPA Receptors | Spark plugs that let brain cells talk to each other more strongly. |
| BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) | Fertilizer for the brain that helps new connections grow. |
| mTOR Pathway | The construction crew that builds new brain wiring. |
| Synaptogenesis | The brain making new wiring so thoughts can move on healthier paths. |
| Default Mode Network (DMN) | The brain’s storytelling channel—often stuck in negative loops—that ketamine quiets. |
| Ego Dissolution | A loosening of the sense of self, often described as melting into everything. |
| Transpersonal States | Experiences of deep connection to nature, the universe, or higher meaning. |
| Neuroplasticity | Mental flexibility—the brain rewiring itself to form healthier patterns. |
| Integration | Turning aha moments from a session into real-life changes. |
Evergood Integrative Wellness Center
This document is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.
Why Evergood?
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every person is unique. We meet you exactly where you are—whether you’re navigating a specific diagnosis, processing a big life change, or simply curious about how this therapy might support your growth. Our team includes medical professionals, therapists, and wellness experts who are deeply committed to ethical, effective, and transformative care.
Ready to Learn More?
If you're curious whether ketamine-assisted therapy is right for you or a loved one, we invite you to reach out. Whether you’re just starting your healing journey or seeking something deeper,we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Contact us to schedule a consultation or ask questions: 225-367-3558 or hello@evergoodwellness.com
Your path to healing starts here!
Visit our nurturing practice space: 7470 Highland Rd, Ste A, Baton Rouge, LA, 70808
