Ketamine Therapy
Cost: $
-
Duration:
1 hour
Bipolar Disorder
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Depression
Our specialty
Ketamine injection therapy is one of the treatments we have built our practice around. While ketamine is increasingly talked about in psychiatry, very few clinics offer it as an intramuscular injection administered by an experienced psychiatric team. Here, it is done in-house, by the same providers who know your history, your diagnosis, and your goals. For patients undergoing TMS, we offer ketamine priming: a combined protocol that enhances the brain's receptivity to stimulation and is not available at most clinics.
When hours matter, not weeks
Ketamine is unlike any other psychiatric treatment available today. While traditional antidepressants can take four to six weeks to produce results, ketamine can begin relieving symptoms of depression within hours to days of the first injection.
It works through a completely different mechanism than standard antidepressants. Rather than targeting serotonin or dopamine, it acts on the glutamate system and rapidly promotes the growth of new neural connections in areas of the brain that depression and trauma erode over time. This process, known as neuroplasticity, is what drives ketamine's fast and often profound effects.
What we treat with ketamine
Ketamine therapy at our clinic is used for patients experiencing treatment-resistant depression, Major Depressive Disorder with inadequate response to medication, PTSD, and bipolar depression.
Ketamine injection vs. Spravato (esketamine)
We offer both forms of ketamine treatment, and your provider will help determine which is appropriate for you.
Ketamine is administered as an intramuscular (IM) injection in our clinic. The procedure is quick and straightforward, with effects onset within moments of the injection. It allows for precise dosing, has the longest clinical track record, and while not currently FDA-approved specifically for depression, has decades of evidence supporting its use. It is generally not covered by insurance, though some plans may reimburse partially.
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray administered in our office under medical supervision. Because it is FDA-approved, it is more likely to be covered by insurance for qualifying patients. It is taken twice weekly for the first month, then tapered over time. Our team will review your benefits before treatment begins.
What to expect during treatment
Ketamine produces a temporary altered state during the session that is normal, expected, and resolves within an hour. You will be monitored throughout by our clinical team in a calm, comfortable setting. You will need a driver for the day of your appointment, iKare can provide a ride if needed.
A standard course consists of six sessions over two to three weeks. Many patients notice meaningful improvement after the second or third session. Maintenance sessions can be scheduled as needed to sustain results long-term.
Is ketamine right for you?
Ketamine may be a strong option if you have tried two or more antidepressants without adequate relief, are experiencing severe depressive symptoms, or have PTSD that has not responded to therapy or medication. A full evaluation with one of our providers will determine whether it is the right fit for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, when administered by trained medical providers in a clinical setting. Ketamine has been used safely in medicine for decades, originally as an anesthetic. At our clinic, you are monitored throughout every session and the dose is carefully calibrated to your weight and medical history.
Ketamine is given as an intramuscular (IM) injection in our office. It does not require an IV line, takes effect within moments, and the full session typically lasts under an hour.
Ketamine produces a temporary dreamlike, floaty, or mildly dissociative state. This is expected and part of how the treatment works that resolves within 30–60 minutes after the session ends.
Many patients notice a meaningful lift in mood within 24–48 hours of their first or second session. The full course of six sessions typically produces the strongest and most lasting results.
Results vary by patient. Some maintain improvement for several months after a single course. Others benefit from periodic maintenance sessions every four to eight weeks. Your provider will work with you on a long-term plan based on your response.
Spravato (esketamine) is FDA-approved and covered by many insurance plans for qualifying patients. IM ketamine is covered by some insurances. Our team will review your benefits and walk you through your options before treatment begins.
Ketamine priming is an advanced protocol we offer in combination with TMS therapy. A ketamine injection is administered before TMS sessions to increase the brain's neuroplasticity — making it more receptive to the magnetic stimulation that follows. This combination is not widely available and may produce stronger or faster results than TMS alone, particularly for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
See if you qualify for Ketamine Therapy.