Ketamine Services

Ketamine is a powerful, fast-acting therapy offering hope to those struggling with treatment-resistant mental health conditions.

Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to show results, ketamine provides relief within hours to days, helping to break cycles of depression, anxiety, chronic pain, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Ketamine Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Health Conditions

Woman sitting in chair legs crossed and hand laid together speaking to a dark haired man.
Decorative graphic

What Is Ketamine?

Ketamine is an anesthesia drug utilized in hospitals for decades. Since the year 2000, growing evidence demonstrates rapid antidepressant effects with low-dose ketamine, offering hope for those with treatment-resistant mental health disorders. Unlike other antidepressants which have activity on serotonin and norepinephrine pathways, ketamine's mechanisms of action involve altering activity of glutamate and brain-derived neurotrophic factor ultimately resulting in neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity is a complex process in which the brain is able to adapt and change. A growing number of clinical trials, including those from Yale and the NIH, continue to highlight ketamine's potential in treating depression and PTSD.

Brightly dressed African American woman looking out window adorned with green plans.

Who Is It For?

Ketamine therapy is especially beneficial for patients who have not responded to traditional medications or therapies. This includes individuals with:

  • Depression

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Anxiety

  • Chronic Pain

  • Post Partum Depression

African American man looking out sliding glass door in a tropical environment.

Is Ketamine Safe?

Yes, ketamine has been safely used in medical settings for decades as an anesthetic. In lower doses, it offers significant benefits for mental health without many of the side effects associated with other medications. Patients are closely monitored by anesthesia providers during infusions to ensure safety and comfort throughout the process.

Middle aged white woman embracing her dog on the deck in a lush green backyard.

What to Expect.

Patients can expect rapid symptom relief in as little as one infusion, although relief typically begins to happen around the fourth infusion. At PAX Institute, we provide individualized treatment plans designed around your specific needs, ensuring you receive the right care for your mental health journey.

Find relief with ketamine therapy.

Young woman smiling and talking to a medical professional.

What to expect at your appointment.

Each ketamine infusion session lasts between 40-60 minutes. Administered in a calm, controlled environment, patients are monitored continuously by our experienced medical team. During the infusion, ketamine encourages neuroplasticity through activity involving neurotransmitters like glutamate and BDNF. Neuroplasticity is the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize synaptic connections.

Rapid Relief and Long-Term Benefits

Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to show effects, ketamine offers rapid relief—often within hours or days after treatment. Many patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD after just a few sessions. Ketamine’s ability to boost neuroplasticity also makes it a promising option for long-term mental health management, with some patients benefiting from "booster" infusions to maintain results over time.

clipboard checklist line icon

Personalized Treatment

At PAX Institute, we create individualized treatment plans for each patient, tailored to their unique medical history and needs. The number of sessions and dosage are adjusted based on the patient’s progress, ensuring the highest level of safety and effectiveness.

line icon of two medical professionals communicating

Comprehensive Care

Our team collaborates closely with referring providers to ensure that ketamine therapy integrates seamlessly with your broader healthcare plan. We maintain open communication with patients and their healthcare teams throughout the course of treatment to monitor progress, adjust as needed, and address any concerns.

Spravato nasal spray device

SPRAVATO®

At PAX Institute, we are proud to offer SPRAVATO® (esketamine) nasal spray, a groundbreaking FDA-approved treatment for appropriate patients with:

  • Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults.

  • Major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts or actions.

When combined with an oral antidepressant, SPRAVATO® provides a new path for those who have struggled to find relief with traditional therapies.

African American family enjoying a sunset hike.

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.

  • 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.

  • Ketamine infusions are administered intravenously in a clinical setting. Through several mechanisms ketamine affects glutamate and BDNF in the brain and rapidly alleviates symptoms of depression and anxiety often within hours

  • Ketamine therapy is typically recommended for patients with depression, anxiety, chronic pain, post partum depression, or PTSD. A thorough medical and psychological assessment is conducted to ensure the treatment is appropriate.

  • 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.

  • The effects of ketamine can last from several days to months or years. After the initial series, maintenance treatments or "booster" infusions may be recommended to prolong the benefits.

  • Ketamine has been used in medical settings for decades with a strong safety profile. Most people don’t experience negative side effects, however, if they do they are mild and include nausea, dizziness, or grogginess, which typically resolve after a night of sleep.

  • Although uncommon, side effects can include nausea, temporary hallucinations, dizziness, and grogginess. These are generally mild and short-lived. You’ll be monitored throughout your infusion to ensure safety.

  • 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.

  • Please avoid eating or drinking within two hours of the infusion start time.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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. We also have a psychiatric NP, Kaitlyn Walker, available for your continued care.

Take the first step toward healing.

Schedule a consultation with our expert team today.