Ketamine Therapy

What is ketamine therapy?

Ketamine therapy uses low, controlled doses of the anesthetic drug ketamine to help people with certain mental health conditions.

Ketamine affects a chemical in the brain called glutamate, which plays a crucial role in learning and memory. By altering how brain connections function, ketamine can reset specific pathways, resulting in improved mood and reduced negative thinking.

Doran offers ketamine therapy as part of a holistic, supportive approach, especially for adults in the LGBTQIA+ community who may face unique challenges with depression, anxiety, or trauma.

What conditions can ketamine therapy help with?

Ketamine therapy can benefit people with depression, especially when other treatments haven’t worked.

It may also help with anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal thoughts. Some patients report feeling relief much faster than with traditional medications.

What happens when I have ketamine therapy?

Before starting, your Doran provider meets with you to review your medical and mental health history. If ketamine therapy is a good fit, you attend a series of sessions in a safe, calming environment with professional support.

During the session, you may receive ketamine through an intravenous infusion, nasal spray, or lozenge. A therapist will be present to ensure your comfort and safety.

What will I feel during a ketamine therapy session?

Experiences with ketamine therapy vary. Some people feel relaxed, while others experience mild changes in perception, such as feeling detached from themselves or perceiving colors or sounds differently.

Side effects like dizziness, nausea, or a floating sensation are usually mild and short-lived. Many patients find that the experience provides them with new insights into their condition.

How many ketamine therapy sessions will I need?

Treatment plans differ from person to person. Some people feel better after a few sessions, while others need a series spread over several weeks.

Many patients benefit from ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), where a counselor helps you process the experience in real time. Your therapist may also recommend talk therapy, mindfulness practices, or other approaches alongside ketamine therapy.

Is ketamine therapy safe?

When used under medical supervision, ketamine therapy is considered safe. The Doran team carefully monitors your health and responses to treatment.

If you’ve struggled with depression, anxiety, or trauma that hasn’t improved with other treatments, ketamine therapy might help. Call Doran today to learn how you could benefit from ketamine therapy or book an appointment online.