What to Expect During Your Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine therapy is a breakthrough treatment that uses small doses of ketamine to help with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. It works differently than typical medications, allowing your brain to reset and feel better — sometimes even after just a few sessions.

If you’re considering ketamine therapy, we’re here to explain what you may experience over the course of your treatment. While every person’s journey is unique, you can expect a few common elements throughout the process.

Our team of trained experts at Ketamine Health & Wellness Clinics of Ohio, in Dublin, Ohio, offers a straightforward look at what happens before, during, and after a ketamine therapy session.

The consultation

Before treatment, you begin with a consultation with one of our trained professionals. This appointment includes a full health history, a mental health evaluation, and a discussion of your symptoms, goals, and any medications you’re taking. 

At that point, we can determine if ketamine is a safe and appropriate option for you. If approved, you receive a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs — often a series of ketamine therapy sessions over a few weeks.

Preparing for your first session

Before your first appointment, we give you instructions, such as fasting for a few hours and arranging for someone to drive you home following treatment. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing, and plan to take the rest of the day off for rest and reflection. 

We may ask you to set an intention for the session, such as, “I’m open to healing” or “I want to let go of fear.”

During your session

Ketamine can be administered through various methods, including intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), sublingual lozenges, or nasal spray (Spravato®). The safest and most tolerated in-clinic method for receiving ketamine is IV infusion, which we offer. Spravato is also an option at our clinic and is equally safe and effective, and is covered by insurance. 

Once your treatment begins, you’re in a calm, safe environment where you remain awake but may enter a deeply relaxed or dreamlike state. Some people describe a floating sensation or a feeling of disconnection from the body, which can help you view your thoughts and emotions from a new perspective. A trained practitioner stays nearby to monitor you the entire time.

Sessions typically last 45-60 minutes, and most people start to feel the effects within minutes of administration.

After your session

You may feel groggy, emotional, or mentally "spaced out" after your session. That’s normal. It’s important to rest, hydrate, and give yourself time to process the experience. You might notice changes in your mood, thought patterns, or energy levels after just a few sessions, although full results usually build over time.

Ongoing care

Ketamine therapy is often most effective when combined with other treatments, like talk therapy or lifestyle changes. The goal is to help you make sense of the insights or emotional breakthroughs you may experience with ketamine therapy. We work with you to monitor your progress and can adjust the plan as needed.

Learn more about what you can expect with ketamine therapy by scheduling a consultation today. Click here to book your appointment through our online portal or call our friendly office staff to check availability.