HOW TO PREPARE FOR KETAMINE THERAPY

How to Get Ready for a Safe and Effective Experience

How to Prepare for Ketamine Therapy

Getting ready for ketamine therapy can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for treatment. At Ketamine Therapy at Therapeutic Alternatives in West Jordan, UT, our team works with patients experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions. Simple preparation steps before treatment may help improve your overall experience and support your treatment goals. To schedule a free 15-minute phone consultation, call (385) 685-1410 or fill out the online form.

Ketamine Therapy Preparation

A little prep goes a long way. Follow these simple steps before your appointment.
Illustrated infographic showing how to prepare for ketamine therapy.
How to prepare for ketamine treatment. Refrain from water for 4 hours, wear comfy clothes, bring a pillow and a blanket, and wear headphones.

What to Expect During Ketamine Therapy

Many patients feel nervous before their first session. Knowing what to expect can help ease those worries. First, a licensed provider checks your vitals. They review your health and make sure you are ready. Next, ketamine is given either by intramuscular (IM) injection or IV infusion. The medication’s peak lasts about 40 to 60 minutes, with a 2-hour window for rest. 

 

During treatment, you will be awake. However, you may feel calm, floaty, or dreamlike. Ketamine is a dissociative medication. That means it creates a mild out-of-body feeling. Most patients find this experience peaceful and relaxing. A licensed provider oversees your treatment and remains on-site during your session, with staff available to assist you at any time. You will rest for up to 2 hours in the treatment room. Ketamine fully leaves the body within 3 to 6 hours. If you need extra time, our team will move you to a comfortable resting area.

Illustrated infographic explaining what to expect during ketamine treatment.

Ketamine Therapy Common Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and short-lived. They fade quickly after treatment ends.

Common side effects may include:
Less common side effects may include:
These effects are temporary. Most patients feel back to normal within a short time after their session. Our team monitors you closely throughout treatment.

Ketamine Therapy Aftercare

What you do after your session matters too. Good aftercare helps your results last longer.

Ketamine Therapy Cost in Utah

Ketamine Therapy at Therapeutic Alternatives offers some of the most affordable rates in Utah.

Treatment Type Single Session Package of 6
Intramuscular (IM) Injection $299 $1,495
Intravenous (IV) Infusion $400 $2,000
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) $599 Contact for pricing
At-Home Conciege Treatments Contact for pricing Contact for pricing
NAD+ Injection $50 for 50mg
$100 for 100mg
$50 for 50mg
$100 for 100
Meyer's Cocktail $50 for IM
$125 for IV
$50 for IM
$125 for IV

Every treatment includes a medical intake exam and clinical supervision. We also offer:

Research on ketamine for depression shows that a series of 6 sessions produces the best results*. After the first series, maintenance sessions can be scheduled as needed.

Read Ketamine Patient Reviews >> 

How to Prepare for Ketamine Therapy

Do not eat or drink anything except water for 4 hours before your session. This helps prevent nausea during treatment. A light meal the evening before is fine. Staying hydrated with water throughout the day is encouraged.

Bring a blanket, pillow, headphones, and a calming playlist. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. These small steps help you feel relaxed and get more from your session. The clinic provides blankets and pillows if you don’t have them.

No. You should not drive or operate any machinery on the day of your treatment. Arrange for a trusted person to pick you up. Plan for this in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Try deep breathing or meditation before your session. Go in with an open mind and no specific expectations. Refraining from social media or emotionally draining content is recommended. A calm, relaxed mindset can improve your overall experience and results.*
Many people find that calming, instrumental music creates the best experience during ketamine therapy. Music without lyrics can help reduce distractions and promote relaxation. Common choices include ambient music, nature sounds, classical music, or specially designed ketamine therapy playlists. It is also important to choose music without commercials or interruptions, as unexpected sounds can disrupt the experience. Your provider may have ketamine playlist suggestions to support your treatment goals.

There is no right or wrong way to experience ketamine therapy. Some people focus on a specific intention, memory, or goal. Others simply observe their thoughts and emotions without judgment. Many providers recommend staying open, curious, and relaxed during the experience. You do not need to force insights or try to control the session. Letting the experience unfold naturally often leads to the best results.

Rest and stay hydrated. Some people feel tired or emotionally sensitive the next day. This is normal. Avoid stressful situations, social media, and emotionally intense content for at least 24 hours. It is also best to avoid making major life decisions. Give yourself time to process and recover at your own pace.

Some medications can affect how ketamine works or increase the risk of side effects. Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin, may reduce ketamine’s effectiveness in some people. Stimulants, including Adderall and Vyvanse, can increase heart rate and blood pressure. Opioids, alcohol, and other sedating medications may increase drowsiness. Certain antidepressants and mood stabilizers may also require monitoring. Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of medications, supplements, and substances before treatment.

How To Prepare for Ketamine Therapy Near Me | West Jordan, Utah

Ketamine Therapy at Therapeutic Alternatives is located in West Jordan, UT. We serve patients from Salt Lake City, South Jordan, Sandy, Draper, Cottonwood Heights, Herriman, and cities in Utah County. Our team provides safe, supervised ketamine care in a calm and private setting. Treatment is led by Austin Francom, APRN, FNP, and supported by Candace Curzon, LCSW. To schedule your free 15-minute phone consult, call (385) 685-1410  or fill out the online form today.

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