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Integrative Counseling & Medicine
Frequently Asked Questions
How is ketamine different from antidepressants?
Many traditional antidepressants work gradually through serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine-related pathways. Ketamine works mainly through glutamate and NMDA receptor-related pathways, which may
explain why some patients notice changes sooner. Response varies and is not guaranteed.
How quickly does ketamine therapy work?
Some patients notice changes early, sometimes within the first few sessions. Others improve more gradually, and some may not respond. We track response over time and adjust recommendations accordingly.
How many treatments will I need?
Many patients complete an initial series, but care is individualized. We tailor recommendations based on response, tolerability, medical appropriateness, and therapeutic goals.
What does the experience feel like?
Many patients describe feeling calm, reflective, or temporarily detached from ordinary thoughts or surroundings. The experience can feel unusual, but it is temporary and occurs while the medication is active.
Will I be unconscious?
No. Patients are typically awake but in an altered state of awareness. The goal is a supported, monitored experience, not an unconscious anesthetic.
Can I drive after treatment?
No. You need a responsible adult to drive you home. You should avoid driving, operating machinery, alcohol, recreational substances, and major decisions for the rest of the day.
Do I need to stop my current medications?
Do not stop prescribed medications unless instructed by the clinic or your prescribing clinician. Most medication decisions are individualized after review of your medication list, medical history, and safety considerations.
Are there side effects?
Possible effects include increased blood pressure or heart rate, nausea, dizziness, anxiety, dissociation, changes in perception, drowsiness, and rarely respiratory depression. These are usually short-lived but are taken seriously.
Who may not be a good candidate?
Ketamine may not be appropriate for patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure, unstable heart disease, active psychosis, uncontrolled mania, active uncontrolled substance-use disorder, pregnancy, or other medical or psychiatric risks. Screening helps determine whether treatment is appropriate.
Do I take ketamine at home?
No. Our model is in-clinic only. Ketamine is not prescribed or dispensed for at-home use.
What if this does not work for me?
Not every treatment works for every person. We monitor response and communicate honestly. If ketamine does not appear helpful or appropriate, we will discuss next steps and alternatives.
How do I know I am not just being sold something?
Our first responsibility is appropriate care. If we do not believe you are a good candidate, we will tell you. The consultation is meant to help you make an informed decision, not pressure you.
Is ketamine addictive?
Ketamine does have the potential for misuse or psychological dependence, which is why patient screening, medical oversight, and appropriate treatment protocols are extremely important. In a controlled medical setting, ketamine is administered in carefully monitored doses as part of a structured treatment plan rather than for recreational use.
Is ketamine therapy safe?
When administered in a controlled clinical setting with appropriate screening and monitoring, ketamine has a long history of medical use. Like all medications, it has risks and is not appropriate for everyone. We screen
patients before treatment and monitor throughout each session.