Your journey begins long before the medicine is administered, and thoughtful preparation can greatly enhance your experience. To prepare your mind and body, avoid food for at least 4 hours before your session—water is okay. Refrain from caffeine or stimulants, as they can interfere with the effects of the medicine. Additionally, do not take benzodiazepines (like Ativan, Xanax, or Klonopin) the evening before, and avoid Z-drugs (like Ambien or Restoril) the night prior. It’s also important to abstain from alcohol the day before. Prioritize rest and quality sleep to support a grounded, receptive state of mind.

To create the best mindset for your journey, it’s important to limit stress by avoiding social media, negative news, or stressful interactions. Take time to set a clear intention, reflecting on what you seek clarity on or what patterns you’re ready to release. Acknowledge any fears that may arise and gently remind yourself that you are safe, supported, and open to the experience.

Psychologically, ketamine may induce an “out-of-body” experience, where patients travel through memories, symbols, or emotions. Some find it mystical and beautiful, while others experience it as unusual but therapeutic—you will always remain in a safe, supervised setting.

Post-session, you may feel tired and reflective. We recommend taking it easy for 6-8 hours and ensuring a responsible adult or rideshare gets you home, as driving is not permitted after treatment.

Let go of control and trust the medicine to guide you where you need to go. The key to a profound experience is to surrender—the more you release, the deeper you will journey. Stay curious and open, knowing that every image, emotion, or sensation holds significance. Embrace non-judgment, as there is no “right” way to experience ketamine—just be present with whatever unfolds.

If discomfort arises, take a deep breath and gently ask yourself, “What is this here to teach me?” Remind yourself that you are safe and supported, with a trained doctor guiding your process every step of the way. This journey is a round-trip ticket—no matter how deep you go, you will return in about an hour, grounded and safe.

Your integration continues after the journey—what you do next shapes your transformation. Nourish your mind and spirit by spending time in nature, whether walking, sitting under a tree, or simply connecting with the elements. Create moments of stillness to reflect and absorb insights, and journal your experience to capture key themes, messages, and emotions. Protect your inner space by giving yourself solo time to ease back into daily life, and limit external stimulation by reducing social media, noise, and draining interactions.

Schedule follow-up therapy with me to unpack emotions and integrate insights. Make small, intentional changes and use this window of neuroplasticity to shift habits and realign with your true self!