Question 1

What conditions does Ketamine-Assisted Therapy treat?

Accepted Answer

Ketamine and Spravato® are primarily used for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety disorders, and certain chronic pain conditions.

Question 2

How does Ketamine work differently from traditional antidepressants?

Accepted Answer

Traditional SSRIs and SNRIs target serotonin and norepinephrine systems, often taking weeks or months to show effects. Ketamine targets the brain’s glutamate system and NMDA receptors, promoting rapid synaptogenesis and neural plasticity to repair damaged neural pathways—often providing noticeable symptom relief within hours or days.

Question 3

What is the difference between IV Ketamine, IM Ketamine, and Spravato®?

Accepted Answer

IV Ketamine: Administered intravenously over approximately 40–50 minutes, providing 100% bioavailability and immediate rate-controlled precision.IM Ketamine: Administered as an intramuscular injection, providing rapid absorption with effects similar to IV infusions.Spravato® (Esketamine): An FDA-approved prescription nasal spray administered in-clinic for treatment-resistant depression, covered by most major insurance plans.

Question 4

Do you offer oral ketamine lozenges or take-home prescriptions?

Accepted Answer

No. We do not offer oral ketamine, sublingual lozenges, or troches. All treatments are conducted in-person in our specialized treatment suites under the direct observation of our clinical team to ensure maximum medical safety, continuous vital monitoring, and optimal therapeutic support.

Question 5

Will my insurance cover treatment?

Accepted Answer

Many commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and TriWest / VA-CCN cover Spravato® (esketamine) treatments and psychiatric monitoring. IV and IM ketamine infusions are typically out-of-pocket/cash-pay, though our administrative team provides superbills and assists with benefits verification for qualifying coverage.

Question 6

Who provides clinical care and supervision?

Accepted Answer

All clinical evaluations, dosing, and medical monitoring are led onsite by Amanda Clemmons, PA-C, in close collaboration with licensed therapists and under the medical directorship of Dr. Leo Damasco, MD.

Question 7

What should I expect during a treatment session?

Accepted Answer

Sessions take place in private, calming treatment rooms equipped with comfortable recliner seating, dimmable lighting, eye masks, and soothing audio. Patients undergo continuous vital sign monitoring and spend a mandatory 2-hour observation period in the clinic until fully alert and cleared for discharge.

Question 8

Can I drive myself home after treatment?

Accepted Answer

No. Because ketamine causes temporary dissociation and sedation, you must have a designated adult driver or pre-arranged ride home. Patients are strictly prohibited from driving or operating machinery until the following day after a full night's sleep.

Frequently Asked Questions