Ketamine Therapy: Your Frequently Asked Questions & Patient Guide

Deciding to start ketamine therapy is a big step. To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve compiled the most common questions our patients ask, along with a step-by-step guide for your first visit.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is ketamine therapy safe?

Yes. When administered by licensed medical professionals in a clinical setting, ketamine is very safe. We use much lower doses than those used in surgery, and your vital signs are monitored throughout the entire session.

How many sessions will I need?

Every patient is different, but a typical "induction" phase consists of 6 sessions over 2 to 3 weeks. This frequency helps build the neural connections needed for long-term relief. After this, some patients transition to occasional "booster" sessions.

Will I see "hallucinations"?

Most patients experience dissociation (a feeling of being detached from the body) rather than full hallucinations. You might see vivid colors or shapes when your eyes are closed, but you will remain aware of where you are.

Can I take my regular antidepressants during treatment?

In most cases, yes. Ketamine works on a different pathway (glutamate) than SSRIs (serotonin), so they don’t usually interfere with each other. However, always provide your doctor with a full list of your medications.

Does insurance cover this?

Coverage varies. While the nasal spray (Spravato) is often covered by insurance for treatment-resistant depression, IV infusions are sometimes considered "off-label" and may require out-of-pocket payment. We recommend checking with your provider.

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Patient Journey: Your First Appointment Checklist

To get the most out of your session, follow this simple preparation guide:

48 Hours Before

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to make IV placement easier and reduce post-session headaches.

• Mindset: Avoid "heavy" or stressful media (violent movies, stressful news). Focus on calming activities.
  

Day of Treatment

• Fast: Do not eat for 4–6 hours before your appointment to prevent nausea. You may have clear liquids (water, black coffee) up to 2 hours before.

• Dress for Comfort: Wear loose, cozy clothing. Layers are great since your body temperature might shift slightly.

• Bring Your Kit: Pack noise-canceling headphones, a pre-made "chill" playlist (no lyrics is usually best), and a sleep mask.
  

During the Session

• Set an Intention: Before the infusion starts, think of a simple word or phrase like "Peace," "Healing," or "Openness." If the experience feels intense, return to this word.

• Let Go: Don't try to "control" the experience. Let your mind wander where it needs to go.
  

After the Session

• Ride Home: You cannot drive for the rest of the day. Ensure you have a friend or Uber ready.

• Rest: Avoid work or major decisions. Your brain is in a "plastic" state—feed it good food, quiet music, and rest.