Your First Ketamine Infusion: What to Expect from Start to Finish
For individuals facing the challenges of depression, PTSD, anxiety, and chronic pain, ketamine infusion therapy has emerged as a groundbreaking alternative. We understand that trying a new treatment can raise many questions. We’re here to provide a comforting, informative experience that helps our patients understand what to expect and how ketamine infusion therapy can make a difference. If you’re considering ketamine therapy, here’s a guide to help you feel confident, prepared, and supported every step of the way.
- Your First Consultation: Setting the Foundation
The journey begins with a consultation. During this visit, we’ll spend time understanding your mental health background, treatment history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. We’ll explain how ketamine therapy works, why it may benefit your specific condition, and answer any questions you might have about the process.
As a treatment option, ketamine works differently than traditional antidepressants or therapy approaches. It directly impacts the brain’s neural pathways to help “reset” connections and promote new growth in areas linked to mood and cognition. Resetting neural pathways makes it a promising option for individuals who haven’t found relief with traditional therapies.
- Preparing for Your Infusion: What to Expect
We’ll schedule your first infusion once we’ve discussed your treatment plan.
You should refrain from consuming alcohol or using recreational drugs for 24 hours before and after your infusion. You should attempt to get a good night’s sleep the night before your infusion. If you regularly take benzodiazepine medications such as Valium, Ativan, Xanax or Klonopin, or opioid pain medications, we ask that you not take these medications for eight hours before your treatment. This is because sedative medications have been found to decrease the depth and effectiveness of the ketamine experience. Do take your blood pressure medication if you suffer from hypertension.
We recommend wearing an eye mask. If you do not have an eye mask, they are available through our clinic for a nominal cost. The ketamine experience is greatly enhanced by music. If you plan on listening to music, please bring headphones or earbuds. We recommend relaxing, meditative types of music, though any type of music you enjoy and puts your mind at ease can be used. Some people enjoy reading during their infusion. We ask that you mute your cell phone, ignore your texts, and only use your phone as a music player. This is a special and private experience for you, which would only be diminished by having to attend to the demands of social media. Most importantly, come relaxed and prepared to enjoy the flow of your ketamine experience.
Ketamine infusions are designed to be calming, immersive experiences, so we’ll make sure you feel relaxed and ready before beginning. Each session takes place in a private, comfortable room with reclining chairs and dim lighting to create a serene environment.
- The Infusion Process: A Step-by-Step Overview
Ketamine infusions are administered intravenously (IV) at low, carefully monitored doses by our trained medical staff. Here’s what you can expect during the actual infusion:
- IV Insertion: We’ll gently insert a small IV into your arm, allowing the ketamine to be delivered directly into your bloodstream. This helps us control the exact dosage to ensure you receive the right amount for optimal therapeutic effects.
- Relax and Settle In Once the infusion begins, you’ll be encouraged to close your eyes, focus on breathing, and relax. Ketamine works quickly, so within minutes, you may start to feel light sensations slightly different from your usual state of mind.
- The Ketamine Effect: Most people describe a feeling of calmness and introspection. You might feel as though you’re in a dreamlike state, experiencing a deep sense of relaxation or gentle detachment from every day worries. Our staff will always be nearby to ensure your comfort and safety.
The entire infusion lasts about 40 to 60 minutes, allowing ample time for the ketamine to work without overwhelming the senses.
- During and After: What You Might Feel
During the infusion, it’s normal to experience mild shifts in perception and time but rest assured that these effects are temporary and part of the therapeutic process. Some patients describe the experience as an inward journey, with opportunities to explore their thoughts and emotions in a new way.
Once the infusion is complete, our team will remain by your side as you “come back” to your usual awareness. The effects wear off quickly, and within 10 to 15 minutes, you should feel grounded and ready to chat with us about your experience.
- The After-Session Debrief: Understanding Your Response
Following each infusion, we’ll have a brief discussion about your experience. For some, there’s a noticeable shift right away; for others, the results become more evident after several sessions.
Each person’s experience with ketamine therapy is unique, so we’re here to monitor your progress, gather feedback, and adjust the treatment plan if needed. Many people start to notice reduced symptoms or a more positive mood after just a few sessions, with long-term benefits growing over time.
- Frequency of Sessions: Building Momentum for Long-Term Relief
Ketamine therapy typically involves an initial series of six sessions over a two to three-week period. This protocol gives the brain the repeated stimulus needed to reset and build healthier neural connections. After this initial series, you and our team will evaluate your progress together, deciding if occasional “booster” infusions may help maintain your results.
- Aftercare and Ongoing Support: Our Commitment to You
Our commitment to you doesn’t end with the infusion. We’re here to provide ongoing support, answer questions, and work with you to ensure ketamine therapy is part of a comprehensive plan for long-term well-being. Some patients find that ketamine helps create a positive foundation to re-engage with other therapies, including talk therapy, lifestyle changes, and physical activity, each of which can enhance the long-term effectiveness of the treatment.
- A Safe and Caring Environment
We are committed to providing a safe, compassionate, and supportive environment. We understand that the choice to try ketamine infusion therapy can be a big step, and we’re here to ensure that each experience is as positive and helpful as possible.
- Is Ketamine Infusion Therapy Right for You?
If you’ve been struggling with depression, PTSD, anxiety, or chronic pain and traditional treatments haven’t provided the relief you’re seeking, ketamine therapy may be a life-changing option worth exploring. We’re here to answer any questions and support you on the journey to greater mental health and wellness.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us here. We’re excited to help you discover the possibilities of ketamine infusion therapy and are here to support you every step of the way.