What to Expect From Your First Ketamine Therapy Session

Understanding Your First Ketamine Therapy Experience

It’s okay to feel unsure about what’s coming next. This guide helps explain what a first ketamine session might be like, so you can feel more ready and less nervous.
Trying something new, especially for your health, can feel big. You might feel a mix of hope, worry, and questions. That’s all normal.

This guide will explain what usually happens during a first ketamine therapy session. We’ll talk about what to wear, what you might feel, and how to get ready.

We’ll also share some things that might help you feel more at ease, like soft music or mindset apps for for Ketamine Treatment.

A patient is relaxed during their ketamine therapy with headphones and a sleep-mask over their eyes.

A room is sparkled with twinkle lights above a comfortable luxury recliner in a patient room for ketamine therapy.

"I wasn’t sure how I’d feel after my session, but tips like wearing loose clothing really helped. It made the unfamiliar feel a little more okay."

Ketamine Patient

Eugene, OR

A patient experiences their first ketamine treatment in a clinical setting with a nurse nearby,

How a Ketamine Session Usually Goes

It’s normal to feel uneasy before a session. Some people feel nervous while they wait or unsure about what’s coming next. These feelings are okay - this is something new.

When you arrive, the clinic may check in with you or guide you to a quiet space. You might have a short wait before things begin, or someone may stay nearby. If anything feels unclear, it’s okay to ask.

The session usually begins calmly. Some people feel a little disoriented at first. A staff member may check in or stay close without needing to speak.

Afterwards, most clinics give you time to rest. You don’t need to rush. Some people sit quietly, while others prefer gentle conversation or stillness before heading home.

8 Things to Expect From Your First Ketamine Session

Your first session may feel unfamiliar.

Here's a straightforward overview of what typically occurs in a clinical setting. This step-by-step guide outlines what you can generally expect during your first ketamine treatment at a clinic.
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Step 1

You may have a short check-in
Before your session begins, your provider may ask how you’re feeling that day. This could include a few health questions, a check of your vitals, or space to talk about your mood.

Step 2

You’ll likely be in a quiet treatment room
The room may have soft lighting, a recliner or couch, and space to sit or lie down. You might be offered a blanket or headphones. Some people bring their own playlist or grounding object.

Step 3

You will likely receive treatment through an injection, an IV, oral lozenge, or by Spravato® nasal spray
Many first sessions are done in a clinic under supervision. The clinic team will explain how the medication is given and stay nearby throughout. This can be unsettling for some patients so being comfortable and using tools that help you remain calm should help.

Step 4

You might feel changes in your body or thinking
Some people feel light, detached, or deeply relaxed. Others describe a dream-like or floating sensation. And some people feel uneasy. You may feel time move differently, or notice your thoughts slowing down. Guided visualization apps built for Ketamine Therapy can help ground your thoughts throughout the session.

Step 5

Emotional responses can vary
You might feel tearful, peaceful, thoughtful, or confused. All of these are normal. There’s no right or wrong way to experience it. Check in with your provider if you have questions or need more support. They are there to ensure you have a safe ketamine experience.

Step 6

A clinician should be monitoring you throughout
During treatment you should have monitoring at regular intervals. Someone may be there the whole time, someone may check in frequently but you should not be left alone without monitoring. Someone should check in with you during the session and make sure you're physically safe and as comfortable as possible.

Step 7

You will likely to be given time to rest afterward
After the medication's effects subside, you'll likely need some time to recuperate before leaving. Most clinics offer a space for you to rest and a check-out process to ensure your well-being. It's crucial to have a designated driver to take you home, as driving yourself is not permitted and is unsafe. Ensure you arrange for someone to drive you.

Step 8

You may want time to reflect later
The session might linger in your thoughts for some time. Many find it helpful to journal or take a walk, when you can safely do so, to process their experience. Be kind to yourself and allow ample time for reflection. Remember, you're undergoing a transformative process, so take it at your own pace.

Tips to Help You Prepare and Reflect

There’s no perfect way to get ready for a ketamine session, but small things can help you feel more at ease.

Some people rest the day before, eat lightly, or take a few quiet moments to themselves. Wearing cosy clothes like a soft hoodie or comfortable socks can make the experience feel more grounding.
You may also wish to bring a blanket or something small to hold.

Patients can benefit from using headphones (noise cancelling headphones are best) to listen to music or Mindset apps like Limitless Guided Visualizations, which offers calming audio before and can be used before, during, and after Ketamine sessions.

After treatment, you may want to journal, take a walk, or rest somewhere quiet. There’s no right way to process, just give yourself time and space to feel whatever comes up.

A patient is wearing a hoodie for their ketamine therapy appointment.

A patient and a ketamine therapy provider discuss treatment options.

Take Things One Step at a Time

Your first session doesn’t need to be perfect. You might feel nervous, curious, emotional, or not much at all and all of that is okay.

This process is personal. It’s about learning what helps you feel safe, asking questions when you need to, and finding support that meets you where you are.

You don’t have to know what comes next. You just have to begin.

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FAQs

Common Questions From Ketamine Patients Like You

What should I wear to my first ketamine IV session?

Wear something soft and comfortable. Many people choose cosy sweats, loose-fitting clothes, or warm socks to help them feel relaxed.

Will someone be with me during my ketamine session?

Clinics often have a staff member nearby to check in or monitor how you're doing, but how much interaction you have may vary. If you're unsure, it's okay to ask ahead of time.

What if I feel nervous or emotional before, during, or after?

This is very common. Many people feel a mix of emotions. You might feel tired, quiet, or unsure and that’s okay. Bring anything that helps you feel more at ease, like headphones or a grounding object.

What should I do after my first ketamine session?

Some people rest, journal, take a walk (once it is safe to do so), or just stay quiet for a while. There’s no right or wrong way to process your experience. What matters is giving yourself time to recover gently.

Looking for a Ketamine Practice in the U.S.?

Finding the right ketamine practice can feel overwhelming. We’re here to make it simpler. Use our directory to search trusted clinics across the U.S. and explore resources designed to help you feel informed and supported at every step.

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Resources Every Ketamine Patient Should Read

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