About Us
Our medical experts are committed to creating safe, evidence-based treatments for every client.
Safe, evidence-based care tailored for every client.
PAX Institute, an established mental health clinic, specializes in the collaborative care of psychiatric mental health providers and anesthesia professionals proficient in safe ketamine therapy administration. Team members include pharmacists, nurse practitioners, CRNAs, and physician anesthesiologists. PAX collaborates with patients' own mental health providers, such as psychiatrists, primary care doctors, or nurse practitioners, ensuring comprehensive care that meets each patient’s unique needs.
Led by experienced Mayo Clinic and John Hopkins trained anesthesia experts and adhering to scientific standards supported by evidence-based practice, PAX provides psychiatric visits and safe and effective IV ketamine treatments in a calming, supportive environment. Dedicated members of the Sioux Falls community, our providers, and founders are committed to delivering safe, high-quality, and effective care.
Our Approach
We believe in a patient-centered approach to healing. Through comprehensive consultations, collaborative care with referring providers, and evidence-based treatments, we ensure each patient receives a customized therapy plan to support their long-term mental health.
Why Ketamine?
Ketamine is a breakthrough in treating conditions like depression, PTSD, and chronic pain.
Unlike traditional medications, rapid relief ketamine therapy delivers results within hours or days, fostering neuroplasticity, and helping repair and rebuild the brain’s neural pathways.
Safety
At PAX, patient safety is our highest priority. Our experienced anesthesia team continuously monitors patients during and after treatment, ensuring a controlled and supportive environment. We follow strict medical guidelines and tailor treatments to each individual, with ongoing follow-up to ensure the best outcomes.
Science
Ketamine works by modulating the brain's glutamate system, which plays a crucial role in neural plasticity and mood regulation. This unique mechanism helps reset the brain's activity, fostering rapid improvement in mood and cognition, especially in those with treatment-resistant conditions.
Results
Clinical studies and patient experiences consistently demonstrate ketamine's effectiveness. Many patients report rapid relief from symptoms that have persisted for years, often with long-lasting results after just a few sessions. Our therapy has helped countless individuals reclaim their lives.
Our Providers
Andy Mortenson, MD, MBA
Dr. Andy Mortenson, serves as the Medical Director of PAX Institute. A graduate of the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Dr. Mortenson completed his anesthesiology residency training at both Johns Hopkins University and the Mayo Clinic. In addition to his medical training, he earned an MBA from the University of Iowa’s Tippie School of Management, giving him a strong foundation in both patient care and clinical operations. Dr. Mortenson is an active anesthesiologist practicing in Sioux Falls. He is board-certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology and is a member of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists & Practitioners.
Molly Mortenson, PharmD
Molly Mortenson, PharmD, BCPS, BCPPS, is the Director of Pharmacotherapy at PAX. She brings a unique perspective as a pharmacist and provides an extra layer of safety to our practice. As a residency-trained clinical pharmacist with dual board certifications, Molly demonstrates her commitment to evidence-based medicine and patient care. With a focus on safety and science, Molly is dedicated to improving patient outcomes.
Travis Behrens, RN, CRNA
Travis Behrens, RN, CRNA, is a co-founder of PAX Ketamine Institute. Since graduating from the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine in 2017, Travis has practiced anesthesia at a Sioux Falls surgical hospital. At PAX Ketamine Institute, Travis administers ketamine therapy in collaboration with mental health providers and oversees the clinic’s daily operations, always working towards the highest standard of care. Travis studied biochemistry at DePauw University and has a master’s degree in nurse anesthesia from the Mayo Clinic. He is board-certified by the NBCRNA and is a member of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists & Practitioners.
Kaitlyn Walker, PMHNP-BC
Kaitlyn Walker is a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about improving mental health outcomes. With extensive experience in providing compassionate care, she specializes in assessing and treating a variety of mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related conditions.
Kaitlyn earned her Master’s degree in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and is board-certified, bringing both expertise and a deep understanding of her patients' needs. Her holistic approach emphasizes the importance of building strong therapeutic relationships, empowering individuals to navigate their mental health journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about ketamine therapy?
Explore our FAQ section to find answers to common questions about how ketamine works, who is a good candidate, and what to expect during and after treatment.
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Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that is now used off-label in low doses to treat mental health conditions such as depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It works by promoting neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new, healthier neural connections.
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Ketamine infusions are administered intravenously in a clinical setting. By blocking NMDA receptors and increasing glutamate levels, ketamine rapidly alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety, often within hours.
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Ketamine therapy is typically recommended for patients with treatment-resistant depression or PTSD. A thorough medical and psychological assessment is conducted to ensure the treatment is appropriate.
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Many patients report feeling relief within hours or days of their first infusion, though the response can vary. A full course of treatment is typically six infusions over two to three weeks.
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The effects of ketamine can last from several days to weeks. After the initial series, maintenance treatments or "booster" infusions may be recommended to prolong the benefits.
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Ketamine has been used in medical settings for decades with a strong safety profile. Side effects are usually mild and include nausea, dizziness, or grogginess, which typically resolve after a night of sleep.
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Common ketamine therapy side effects include nausea, temporary hallucinations, dizziness, and grogginess. These are generally mild and short-lived. You’ll be monitored throughout your infusion to ensure safety.
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It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medications you're taking. Some, like benzodiazepines, may need to be temporarily paused before treatment. Continue antihypertensive medications as prescribed.
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Yes, avoid consuming solid foods within three hours and liquids within one hour prior to your infusion. This helps prevent nausea during the session.
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Yes, ketamine is administered at a low dose that allows you to remain awake. Some patients experience a dissociative state, but you’ll be conscious throughout the treatment.
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Each infusion session lasts approximately 40 minutes to an hour. After the session, a 20-30 minute recovery period is required before you can leave the clinic.
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Yes, ketamine can impair coordination and decision-making for a few hours after treatment. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after each session.
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A typical treatment plan consists of six initial infusions over two to three weeks. After that, maintenance infusions may be recommended based on the individual’s response to treatment.
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Currently, ketamine therapy for mental health conditions is not covered by most insurance plans. However, you can check with your provider about coverage options or discuss payment plans with our clinic.
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Yes, ketamine is often used in conjunction with other treatments, such as psychotherapy or medication management, to optimize outcomes. Our team will collaborate with your mental health provider to ensure a comprehensive care plan.
Take the first step toward healing.
Schedule a consultation with our expert team today.