2 pharmacy CEs* | 2 CEs for CA LAc (pending)
*approved by CNDA
TUESDAY, March 10th | 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Ketamine in Palliative Care: A Naturopathic Integrative Approach to Cancer-Related Pain and Emotional Distress
Pharmacy Webinar 63with Dr. David James, ND
PW63: Ketamine in Palliative Care: A Naturopathic Integrative Approach to Cancer-Related Pain and Emotional Distress
Palliative care in oncology frequently falls short in addressing refractory cancer pain and the profound existential distress that arises in advanced illness. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic and NMDA receptor antagonist, is increasingly recognized for its rapid antidepressant and analgesic effects, offering unique promise within integrative and naturopathic frameworks. This session examines the pharmacology, protocols, and clinical applications of ketamine in cancer-related pain and emotional suffering, with a focus on ethical, safe, and effective integration into palliative care.
Participants will gain a deeper understanding of ketamine’s mechanisms in pain modulation, neuroinflammation, and neuroplasticity, and explore how adjunctive naturopathic modalities—such as adaptogens, omega-3 fatty acids, mindfulness, and somatic therapies—can enhance therapeutic outcomes. Practical case studies will highlight IM and IV protocols for pain and mood, as well as the innovative use of stellate ganglion block (SGB) with ketamine for autonomic dysregulation and trauma. The presentation will emphasize informed consent, safety screening, and integration planning, while addressing pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations relevant to naturopathic physicians with prescriptive authority.
TUES, March 10th 2026
6:30 - 8:30pm
Members: $85
Non-members: $105
2 CEs
(approved by CNDA)
2 CEs for CA LAc*
(pending)
Category 1 TM Credits | CE Provider #805 | 310 670 8100 | **This course is pending approval by The California Acupuncture Board for 2 hours of continuing education *Refunds not available
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
Explain ketamine’s mechanism of action in modulating neuroinflammation, chronic pain, and mood regulation.
Identify safe and appropriate contexts for integrating ketamine into naturopathic palliative care.
Evaluate ethical, emotional, and consent considerations in altered-state therapy.
Apply specific ketamine protocols (IM, IV, SGB), including dosing, safety screening, and integration strategies.
Incorporate synergistic therapies—such as botanicals, nutrients, and mind-body practices—to support ketamine’s efficacy and durability of response.
Dr. David James, ND
Dave James, ND, is a licensed naturopathic physician in Connecticut, Arizona. New Hampshire, & Washington, with clinical expertise in chronic pain & integrative oncology. He is a proud alumnus & former Board of Trustees member of Sonoran University of Health Sciences, where he completed botanical research. Currently, he physically practices in Seattle at a busy ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) clinic, offering both in-clinic and at-home palliative care–oriented KAP therapy under the mentorship of Dr. Sunil Aggarwal, a board-certified palliative care MD.
Dr. James brings a unique perspective shaped by both professional expertise & lived experience. After the loss of his spouse in 2004, he found healing running the trails of Catalina Island, the Sierra, & the beaches of California. This journey informs his commitment to addressing grief, resilience, & mental health in patient care.
A two-time USATF 100-mile national champion and Team USA ultramarathoner, Dr. James now integrates that same endurance mindset into medicine. He has presented CME lectures nationwide on integrative oncology and supportive cancer care. A candidate for FABNO board certification, he is deeply committed to advancing access to evidence-informed, whole-person naturopathic care.
