Who is a good candidate for ketamine therapy?

Ketamine therapy is primarily considered for adults with treatment-resistant depression, defined as inadequate response to at least two conventional antidepressants. It may also be appropriate for severe anxiety disorders, PTSD, chronic pain syndromes, OCD, and acute suicidal ideation. Candidates must undergo medical screening to rule out contraindications including uncontrolled hypertension, active psychosis, history of ketamine misuse, and certain cardiovascular conditions. A qualified provider evaluates each patient's full psychiatric and medical history before recommending treatment.

What does ketamine therapy feel like?

During a ketamine session, patients typically experience altered perception, a sense of floating or detachment from the body, changes in how sounds and light are perceived, and sometimes emotional or visual experiences. These effects are collectively called dissociation and are dose-dependent. Most patients describe the experience as dreamlike. At subanesthetic doses used for depression, the dissociative effects are mild to moderate and resolve within 1 to 2 hours after administration ends. Many patients find the experience neutral or positive, particularly after the first session.

How do I find a qualified ketamine provider?

Start by asking your psychiatrist or primary care physician for a referral. Professional organizations like the American Society of Ketamine Physicians (ASKP3) maintain provider directories. Look for providers who are board-certified in psychiatry, anesthesiology, or pain medicine, with specific training in ketamine administration. Verify that the clinic has proper monitoring equipment, emergency protocols, and a structured treatment program rather than one-off infusions. Telehealth platforms now offer at-home ketamine programs with sublingual formulations under medical supervision.

What should I expect at my first appointment?

Your first appointment is typically a comprehensive evaluation lasting 30 to 60 minutes. The provider reviews your psychiatric history, medical conditions, current medications, and previous treatment responses. You will complete standardized rating scales such as the PHQ-9 for depression. Vital signs are taken, and the clinician explains the treatment process, potential side effects, and realistic outcome expectations. Informed consent is obtained. Some clinics schedule the first treatment on the same day, while others schedule it separately.

How many treatment sessions are needed?

A typical initial series consists of six ketamine sessions over two to three weeks for IV infusion, or daily to weekly sessions for sublingual or oral formulations over a similar period. Response is usually assessed after the initial series. Patients who respond may then transition to maintenance sessions every two to eight weeks, depending on symptom duration. Some patients eventually taper to quarterly sessions, while others require more frequent treatments. The optimal long-term schedule is individualized based on symptom recurrence patterns.

Can I continue my other medications during ketamine therapy?

Most psychiatric medications can be continued during ketamine therapy. In fact, ketamine is often used as an augmentation strategy alongside existing antidepressants. However, certain medications may interact with ketamine. Benzodiazepines may blunt ketamine's antidepressant effects and are sometimes reduced before treatment. Lamotrigine may attenuate ketamine's effects at the NMDA receptor. MAOIs require careful consideration due to potential cardiovascular interactions. Your ketamine provider will review all medications and advise on any adjustments.

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Getting Started with Ketamine Therapy

Name: Ketamine Resource
Address: US
Price range: $$

Answers to common questions about beginning ketamine treatment, including who qualifies, how to find a provider, and what to expect.

January 30, 2026

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