Ketamine Therapy FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered | Part 1
This blog post has been adapted from our “Ketamine Therapy FAQs: Your Top Questions Answered | Part 1” video.
Synopsis: Curious about ketamine therapy? This blog answers your top FAQs, covering everything from treatment referrals to what to expect during and after infusions.
Discover the Answers to Your Ketamine Therapy Questions
Are you considering ketamine therapy but have questions you'd like answered? You're not alone! In this blog, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about ketamine therapy to help you feel more informed and confident as you explore this treatment option.
Below, we cover common concerns like whether you need a referral, what an infusion feels like, how long the effects last, and more. Jump straight to the information you need or read through for a comprehensive understanding.
Do You Need a Referral for Ketamine Therapy?
Clinics vary in their requirements for referrals. At Reset Ketamine, we review your medical records from your psychiatrist, pain specialist, or primary care doctor, along with lab work, to ensure you're ready for treatment.
Regular communication with your primary healthcare providers is essential during and after your infusions. Some clinics may require a referral form from your physician, so it’s a good idea to check in advance.
Should You Continue To See Your Therapist During Ketamine Treatments?
Absolutely! Continuing to work with your therapist, psychiatrist, or mental health provider is vital for success with ketamine therapy. At Reset Ketamine, we serve as consultants and strongly encourage ongoing therapy. Some clinics may offer in-house therapists.
Remember, ketamine therapy is not just about the medication—it requires integration and lifestyle changes for lasting healing. Your active participation is key to maximizing the benefits.
What Will It Feel Like When You Get An Infusion?
During a ketamine infusion, many patients describe feeling like they’re in a dreamlike state or slightly detached. Changes in thinking, vision, or speech are common. Experiences can range from empathogenic (emotional connection) to out-of-body, near-death, or even ego-dissolving transcendental sensations.
If you experience any unpleasant sensations, clinics like ours may adjust the medication or infusion rate to ensure your comfort, amongst other strategies to support you.
How Long is A Typical Infusion Treatment?
Length of infusion depends on what you are being treated for. For mood disorders, a ketamine infusion typically lasts about 40 minutes, with the total appointment extending to two hours for recovery.
Pain disorder treatments, however, can last up to four hours, with a total clinic time of five to six hours. Each clinic may have different protocols for preparation and recovery, so be sure to ask in advance to plan your visit accordingly.
How Long Do The Effects Of Ketamine Therapy Last?
The effects of a single infusion can last from a few days to a week, while a series of infusions may provide relief for weeks or months. Booster infusions can help maintain these effects. Your response will depend on factors like your medical history and your commitment to supportive lifestyle changes, such as meditation, exercise, and reducing time with toxic individuals. At Reset Ketamine, we like to remind patients that ketamine is not a cure—it's a catalyst for transformation.
If you’re curious about tips on avoiding infusions, check out our 6 Tips on Avoiding Ketamine Infusions blog post.
How Many Treatments Do You Need?
Ketamine therapy typically involves two phases: initiation and maintenance. The initiation phase includes six infusions over two to three weeks. During the maintenance phase, booster treatments may be spaced one to three months apart, depending on your symptoms.
At Reset Ketamine, we tailor treatment protocols to each patient. Even if two people have the same diagnosis, their experiences and outcomes can vary. We adapt the plan based on your unique response to the medication.
Conclusion
We hope this blog has answered your top questions about ketamine therapy and provided valuable insights into the treatment process. Remember, the journey is unique for everyone, and support is available every step of the way.
If you have further questions or would like to explore ketamine therapy, feel free to contact us! We're here to help.
If you found this blog post helpful, you might want to check out these too:
Before Ketamine Therapy: What To Do & What To Expect
Discover essential tips for a successful ketamine therapy journey. Learn about preparation, key questions to ask, and maximizing benefits through integration.
During Ketamine Therapy: What To Do & What To Expect
Learn what to expect during ketamine therapy, including key preparation steps, emotional responses and tools to navigate your ketamine infusion experience.
After Ketamine Therapy: Common Reactions & What to Expect
Learn what to expect after ketamine therapy, from common side effects like fatigue and nausea to tips on emotional integration and positive mental health practices.