If you’ve been considering ketamine therapy to address depression, anxiety, or PTSD, you might be wondering what actually happens once you decide to give it a try. As someone who offers ketamine-assisted therapy (KAP) in Falmouth, Maine, I want to demystify the process and help you feel at ease before you walk through my door—or sign on to a telehealth session.
This post is especially geared toward readers between the ages of 15 and 40 who may be new to the concept of ketamine in a therapeutic setting. I promise it’s far less intimidating than you might think. So, let’s dive in!
Why Ketamine Therapy? Understanding the Science and Benefits
You’ve likely heard that ketamine can offer fast relief when other treatments fail. But how does it work? In short, ketamine interrupts habitual thought patterns and helps the brain form new connections. It acts on glutamate (a key neurotransmitter related to learning and memory), thereby boosting neuroplasticity. The result can be a rapid decrease in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
For many, ketamine works when nothing else does because it tackles the problem from a different angle than traditional antidepressants, which focus on serotonin. This different mechanism provides a quick reboot for your brain, offering relief without waiting weeks or months.
But let’s be clear: Ketamine isn’t a cure-all. It’s a tool that can open the door to deeper therapeutic work, which is why I combine it with talk therapy and other modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS). If you’re the kind of person who’s been battling stubborn anxiety or depression and is ready for a game-changing intervention, ketamine may be worth exploring.
The Prep Work – What to Do Before Your Session
Set Your Intentions
Reflect on what you want from therapy. Are you looking to alleviate severe depression, get a handle on overwhelming anxiety, or process traumatic experiences? Clarifying your why helps guide the session.
Pre-Session Best Practices
- Avoid heavy meals and alcohol for at least a few hours beforehand.
- Get a good night’s sleep if possible.
- Consider bringing a cozy blanket or personal item for comfort.
The Playlist Question
Many clients ask whether they can listen to music. Music can indeed enhance the experience, but we’ll discuss this together. Often, we’ll select gentle, ambient music to help you relax.
Addressing Fears
Feeling nervous is completely normal. Write down any questions or worries you have so we can address them before starting. Trust me—you’re not going to “lose control.” You’ll be in a safe and supportive environment.
Step-by-Step: What Happens During Your First Ketamine Session
Arriving at the Office
When you arrive at my office in Falmouth, Maine, we’ll settle into a comfortable, quiet room. If you’re doing a remote session (for certain forms of ketamine therapy), we’ll ensure you have a safe and private space at home.
Administration Methods
Ketamine can be administered in various ways: intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), or sublingual lozenges. Each method has its pros and cons. I’ll guide you through the best option for your specific needs.
What You Might Feel
The experience varies, but clients often describe a sense of relaxation, introspection, or mild dissociation. Some say they feel like they’re observing their thoughts from a peaceful distance.
“Will I Lose Control?”
This is a common fear. While ketamine can create an “altered state,” you won’t be out of touch with reality. You’ll still know who and where you are, and I’m there to ensure you feel safe throughout.
The Role of a Therapist
I’m there to help you navigate your thoughts and emotions. If you begin to feel anxious or overwhelmed, we can use grounding techniques or simply pause and breathe. Remember, this is your session.
Session Length
Typically, the ketamine-influenced part lasts 40–60 minutes. Expect the entire appointment to take around two hours, including pre-session check-in and post-session debrief.
The Come-Down – Integration and Processing
A ketamine session isn’t just about the time you spend under the medication’s influence. Integration is where the real magic happens. Within 24–48 hours of your ketamine experience, we’ll schedule a follow-up therapy session (either in person or via telehealth) to:
- Reflect on any insights or emotional shifts you noticed.
- Process any difficult or confusing memories that arose.
- Discuss how to bring these newfound perspectives into everyday life.
You might find journaling or voice notes helpful in capturing your experiences. If something powerful came up—like a past trauma you hadn’t fully processed—this integration session is the place to unpack it safely. Ketamine creates a mental “openness,” and it’s crucial to channel that openness into constructive growth.
Keep in mind that ketamine isn’t a one-and-done. Many clients benefit from a series of sessions, each followed by integration. Over time, you’ll likely see a more pronounced improvement in mood, anxiety levels, and overall mindset. But it all hinges on your willingness to engage in therapeutic work around the ketamine experience.
Common Questions and Concerns
Is It Safe?
When administered under medical supervision and in the right dose, ketamine is considered safe. Mild side effects—like nausea or dizziness—can occur, but serious complications are rare.
What If I Freak Out?
It’s natural to fear a “bad trip.” However, in a clinical setting with a trained therapist, your experience is closely monitored. If distress arises, we have strategies to ease it.
How Many Sessions Do I Need?
The number varies. Some people feel significantly better after just one or two sessions; others need several over a span of weeks. We’ll tailor a plan to your unique situation.
Can I Drive After?
Absolutely not. You should arrange for someone to pick you up or plan on taking a ride-share or taxi. Wait at least until the following day to resume normal activities like driving.
Will I Become Dependent on Ketamine?
Ketamine has the potential for misuse if taken recreationally. But in a therapeutic, controlled context, the risk is quite low. We prioritize safety and follow strict protocols.
Cost and Insurance
Because ketamine is often considered “off-label,” many insurances don’t cover it. You can check my Pricing and Packages page for detailed information on costs.
Is Ketamine Therapy Right for You? Final Thoughts from a Therapist
Ketamine therapy shows promise for many individuals—particularly those who haven’t found relief through standard treatments. But it’s not suitable for everyone. People with certain psychotic disorders or uncontrolled high blood pressure may not be good candidates.
If you’re intrigued but unsure, scheduling a consultation call is the best first step. We’ll discuss your medical history, current mental health challenges, and overall goals. Keep in mind that ketamine is a tool, not a cure-all. Long-term success relies on consistent therapy, self-care, and, often, support from loved ones.
You don’t have to do this alone. Part of deciding if ketamine is right for you is exploring whether you have the resources (emotionally, financially, and socially) to support your healing journey.
Conclusion
Taking the leap into ketamine therapy can feel like a big step, but understanding the process can ease those jitters. From pre-session prep to the “come-down” and beyond, each phase is designed to help you feel safe, supported, and ready to embrace new insights.
Curious to learn more? Feel free to visit my Maine therapy website. Whether you’re in Southern Maine or anywhere in the state, I’m happy to answer questions and help you decide if ketamine therapy is the right path toward healing.