How do I know if I am a good candidate for ketamine therapy?

During your consultation, one of our providers will review your medical history to ensure low-dose ketamine can be administered to you safely. There are some situations in which ketamine cannot be given. See below for more details.

Who cannot receive ketamine therapy?

We are unable to treat patients with the following conditions:

• Uncontrolled hypertension

• Severe lung or heart disease

• History of schizophrenia or psychosis

• Pregnant or breastfeeding

• Other conditions determined by the provider or medical director
  

Is ketamine therapy safe?

Your safety is our highest priority. Your ketamine session is overseen by an experienced advanced practice registered nurse and administered by an RN. All of our staff has specialized training in the safe administration of low-dose ketamine. Each of our nurses have 15-20 years critical care experience and have been trained to provide safe, effective low-dose ketamine therapy.

What ages can you treat?

Currently, we can only treat patients 18 years of age and older.

What are the side effects of ketamine therapy?

The most common side effects of ketamine are increased blood pressure and heart rate, although increases are usually small and do not last long. We will monitor your vital signs before, during, and after your ketamine session and can treat your blood pressure if necessary.

Some people may experience nausea or dizziness after their ketamine session. To reduce the chance of this happening, we will premedicate you with an anti-nausea medication before beginning your ketamine session. If nausea or dizziness persists, we have additional medications available.

What does a ketamine session look like?

Your ketamine session begins in one of our private therapy rooms. We have everything available to ensure your session is relaxing and enjoyable, including oversized zero gravity chairs with heat and massage, eye masks and noise cancelling headphones, and soothing playlists specifically designed to enhance the ketamine experience.

We begin by documenting your vital signs, reviewing your ketamine therapy plan with you, and answering any questions. An IV will be started if you are receiving an infusion, and you will receive anti-nausea medication. We will discuss your goal for your ketamine session and assist you as you prepare for your session. Once you are ready, your ketamine will be administered.

Most people remain in the therapy room for 1-2 hours. Afterwards, your IV will be removed and you will be free to return home.

How do I prepare for my ketamine session?

We ask that you refrain from eating any food three hours before your ketamine session. You must have a responsible adult drive you home and remain with you for 24 hours. Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing and slip on shoes. You are welcome to bring a favorite blanket or other items of comfort.

Will I require ketamine therapy for the rest of my life?

After the initial treatment of 6 sessions, most people report immediate relief. For many patients, after continued work with their mental health provider and lifestyle modification this is all that is needed. Others may require a booster infusion after one month, some at 6 months, but many not at all.

Why is ketamine therapy so expensive?

We strive to keep our prices low so that we can offer ketamine therapy to more people who need it. Ketamine therapy is administered in our clinic by highly qualified staff in an environment that is equipped for any emergency. Both IM and IV sessions require medical supplies, equipment, and medications that can be expensive to purchase and maintain. All of these costs must be factored into our pricing. Remember, ketamine therapy is an investment into your overall well-being.

Do you accept insurance?

We do not accept insurance. Low-dose ketamine therapy is considered off-label use of ketamine, and insurance companies do not reimburse when used to treat mental health and chronic pain. As more research becomes available documenting the effectiveness of low-dose ketamine, we anticipate insurance companies will begin to reimburse for this treatment. Until then, we are happy to provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance company.