WHAT TO EXPECT
BEFORE
Before your first ketamine therapy session, you will undergo an initial assessment and evaluation with our medical team to determine your suitability for treatment. This assessment includes a thorough review of your medical history, current medications, a complete physical examination, and a discussion evaluating any previous treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other conditions. Our provider will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. We will also provide detailed instructions on how to prepare for your session, including dietary guidelines, transportation needs, and what to expect on the day of treatment.
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On the day of your session, you will be welcomed into a comfortable and serene environment designed to promote relaxation and healing. You’ll receive ketamine via intravenous infusion, intramuscular injection, or sublingual administration, depending on your treatment plan. The session typically lasts 1 to 2 hours.
DURING
During the session, you will be closely monitored by our medical professionals to ensure your safety and comfort. A mental health specialist may be present to guide you through the experience, helping you navigate and decipher any emotions or insights that arise. Many patients report feeling relaxed and introspective, often experiencing altered states of consciousness that can provide profound personal insights. For a deeper exploration of what to expect during a ketamine-assisted psychotherapy session, check out this detailed blog post.
AFTER
After the ketamine session, you will spend some time recovering while the effects of the ketamine wear off. You may feel groggy or disoriented, so it is important to arrange for someone to drive you home. You should not drive for the rest of the day. Our team will provide you with aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.
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Possible side effects of ketamine can include nausea, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, confusion, or vivid dreams. These side effects typically resolve shortly after the session, but some patients may experience mild symptoms for a few days. Our medical team takes several measures to minimize these side effects, such as adjusting the dosage, providing anti-nausea medications, and closely monitoring your vital signs during the session. We are committed to ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the treatment process.
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In the days following your session, you may experience enhanced emotional clarity and reduced anxiety, depressive symptoms, pain, and overall sense of improvement. Integration therapy sessions will be scheduled to help you process and incorporate the insights gained during your ketamine experience into your daily life. These sessions are crucial for maximizing the therapeutic benefits of ketamine and fostering long-term positive change.
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Depending on your response to the initial sessions, maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain and build upon the progress you have made. Maintenance ketamine sessions are preferred over the conventional chronic use of medications because they can provide lasting relief with fewer side effects and reduce the dependency on daily medications.
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For more information, to schedule an initial consultation, or to even meet our doctor, please contact our clinic. We are dedicated to supporting you on your journey to improved mental health and well-being.
