Frequently Asked Ketamine Questions

Q: What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is a medicine that’s been around for decades, originally used as an anesthetic. In lower doses, it’s now helping people find fast relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and more—especially when other treatments haven’t worked.

Q: How does Ketamine therapy work?
Ketamine works differently than most antidepressants. Instead of focusing on serotonin, it affects a brain chemical called glutamate, which helps with mood, memory, and healing.

What makes it powerful:

• Boosts glutamate activity – Boosts communication between brain cells

• Promotes neuroplasticity – Helps your brain form new, healthier connections and emotional resilience.

• Disrupts negative cycles – Many people describe feeling like their “loop” of depression, anxiety, or trauma is interrupted, breaking the cycle of negative thoughts or emotional pain

Q: Is Ketamine therapy safe?
Yes, Ketamine is a well-studied and FDA-approved medication that has been used safely in medical settings for decades. It is considered very safe with minimal risk when administered properly. At Elite Ketamine Therapy, your care team includes a PharmD and a nationally certified critical care paramedic, so you’re in excellent hands from start to finish.

Q: How is this different from SSRIs or talk therapy?
Ketamine works faster and in a totally different way than medications like SSRIs. When combined with therapy, it can help you go deeper emotionally and make meaningful breakthroughs—sometimes after just a few sessions.

Q: Is this the same as recreational Ketamine use?
Therapeutic Ketamine is administered in carefully controlled, low doses by licensed professionals in a medical setting.

Q: Is Ketamine addictive?
Ketamine has a very low to no risk for addiction. It is not physically addictive in the same way that opioids or alcohol are.

Q: What conditions does Ketamine Therapy help with?
We treat a range of conditions, including:

• Depression, anxiety, and PTSD – Provides fast symptom relief and support breakthroughs in therapy.

• Substance or alcohol use – Reduces cravings, supports emotional healing, and encourages behavioral change.

• Chronic pain and migraines – Targets the brain’s pain-processing systems to ease discomfort and improve quality of life.

Q: Who isn’t a good fit for Ketamine Therapy?

It may not be right if you’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant, have a history of Ketamine misuse, or are experiencing active psychosis.
We always do a full medical and mental health screening first to make sure it’s safe for you.

Q: How do I know if it’s right for me?

If you’ve been dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or pain that hasn’t gotten better with other treatments, Ketamine might help.

Q: Is Ketamine Therapy covered by insurance?

No, it’s not currently covered by insurance.
Here’s a breakdown of costs:

• Consultation: $100

• Mood-based sessions: $300 each

• Chronic pain sessions: $400 each

Q: What does Ketamine feel like?

It often feels calming, floaty, or dreamlike. Many people feel more open, relaxed, or reflective.

Q: Do you hallucinate?

Not usually. Some people notice gentle shifts in visuals or how things feel, especially at higher doses - but it’s not like a scary or intense hallucination. Everything happens in a calm, safe space.

“A Ketamine infusion is like being on a 3-D ride at Disney World!” - Verified Elite Ketamine Patient

Q: Will I be conscious during treatment?

Yes! You’ll be awake and able to talk if needed. Most people feel deeply relaxed, sometimes like they're in a meditative or dreamy state.

Q: Does Ketamine therapy hurt?

Nope! It’s not painful. You might feel a bit of tingling or warmth in your body, but it’s mild and passes quickly.

Q: What should I expect during a session?

Sessions for mood take about 45–60 minutes. Pain-related sessions are longer - around 4 hours. You’ll be in a cozy, private room with soft lighting and a comfy recliner. We’ll check in on you quietly to make sure you’re feeling okay.

Q: What is recovery like?

You might feel a little tired, spacey, or emotional right after. That’s normal! This hazy state doesn’t last long. But we do recommend taking it easy for the rest of the day.

Q: Can I drive or go back to work afterward?

No - you’ll need someone to drive you home. Plan to rest and take it slow the rest of the day. We do offer transportation if needed. We just ask to be notified 2 days before your session.

Q: Can I take my regular medications before or after treatment?

We’ll go over all your medications with you beforehand, making sure everything’s safe and clear.

🌿 Before Your Appointment

Think of this as a mini vacation for your brain. It’s your day to focus on YOU.

🕒 Arrive a Little Early
Please come at least 15 minutes before your scheduled treatment so we can settle you in calmly.

🚗 Plan Your Ride Home
You’ll need someone to drive you afterward.
No one available? We offer a ride service — just let us know 2 days in advance if you'd like to use it.

⏳ Plan for Extra Time
You'll be with us for about 1–2 hours total, including time to rest after your infusion.

🍽 Fasting Tips
No solid food 4 hours before your appointment.
Clear liquids (like water or tea) are fine up to 2 hours before.

🚫 Skip Substances & Certain Meds
Please avoid alcohol, cannabis, or recreational drugs 24 hours before and after your treatment.
No opioid pain meds within 6 hours before your infusion.
If you're taking anything like Xanax, Lamictal, or MAOIs, let us know — we’ll guide you.

🌙 After Your Appointment

It’s time to rest, reflect, and let the experience settle in.

🚫 No Driving or Big Decisions
Don’t drive or operate machinery for 24 hours.
Hold off on any major decisions for at least 12 hours.

🍲 Light Meal + Rest
Have a gentle meal and give yourself time to relax — your body and mind will thank you.

💊 Avoid Certain Meds & Substances
Skip benzodiazepines or opioid pain meds for at least 4 hours after your session.
Avoid alcohol and cannabis for 24 hours.

🩹 Keep an Eye on Your IV Site
If you notice redness, swelling, or pain at the IV site, let us know.

🤝 Stay Connected
We encourage you to follow up with your mental health provider or primary care doctor for ongoing support.

Q: How quickly will I feel results?
Some people feel relief within hours of their first treatment, while others notice gradual improvements over several sessions. The timeline varies based on your condition and how your brain responds.

Q: How often do I need treatment?
Most clients begin with a series of 6 sessions over 2–3 weeks. After that, we’ll work with you to create a personalized maintenance plan that may include booster sessions every few weeks or months, depending on your progress and goals.

Q: How long do the effects last?
Relief can last days to months after a single series of treatments. Maintenance sessions may help extend the benefits, especially when paired with therapy or lifestyle changes.

Q: Can I combine Ketamine therapy with my current therapist?
Yes! We’re happy to collaborate with your existing mental health provider. Integration therapy can be even more effective when it's part of your broader support network.