Ketamine F.A.Q.s | Waypoint

Ketamine-Assisted Therapy F.A.Q.

What does ketamine feel like?

Most people experience a sense of relaxation and a shift in awareness. Some describe it as feeling dreamlike or introspective. You may notice changes in perception, including mild visual or sensory distortions. At the doses used in psychotherapy, the experience is typically manageable and time-limited, and you remain aware that you are in a safe setting.

Will I lose control or be unconscious?
No. The doses used in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy are much lower than those used in anesthesia. You remain conscious and able to communicate if needed. Many people find that they are able to observe their thoughts and emotions from a different perspective.

Is ketamine safe?
Ketamine has been used safely in medical settings for decades. When prescribed by a qualified medical provider and used in a structured, clinically supervised setting, it is considered safe for most appropriate candidates. We work closely with Journey Clinical to ensure proper medical screening and oversight.

How is this different from ketamine clinics or at-home ketamine services?
Ketamine clinics often focus primarily on the medical administration of the medication, with limited psychotherapy support. At-home services increase convenience but may lack sufficient structure and guidance.

Our model combines medical oversight through Journey Clinical with in-person psychotherapy at Waypoint. This allows for both safety and meaningful psychological integration of the experience.

Why combine ketamine with psychotherapy?
Ketamine appears to create a temporary window in which the brain is more flexible and open to change. Psychotherapy during this period can help you process experiences, shift patterns, and reinforce new ways of thinking and relating. The combination is often more impactful than medication alone.

How many sessions will I need?
Many treatment protocols involve a series of eight sessions over several weeks. The exact number and frequency will depend on your individual response and goals, and will be discussed with both your therapist and the prescribing provider.

What happens during a dosing session?
You will be in a private, comfortable room with your therapist. After reviewing the plan for the session and checking vital signs, you will self-administer the ketamine under supervision. The active portion of the experience typically lasts about 45 to 60 minutes, with additional time for preparation and recovery. Most sessions last about two hours in total.

What is the medication like?
Ketamine is provided as a sublingual tablet. You place it under your tongue and hold it there for about 12 minutes, then spit and rinse. This allows for gradual absorption and a controlled experience.

Can I do sessions at home?
Yes, in some cases. After the first two to three sessions, once you are comfortable with the process, there may be an option to transition to at-home dosing with therapist support. The initial portion of the session is conducted online, allowing for continued guidance while reducing time and cost.

Will my insurance cover this?
Insurance typically covers the psychotherapy portion of the session (usually 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your plan). There is an additional $100 facilitation fee for ketamine dosing sessions. The medical consultation and medication through Journey Clinical are self-pay.

Who is a good candidate for ketamine-assisted psychotherapy?
This approach may be helpful for individuals with treatment-resistant depression or those who feel stuck despite previous therapy or medication. It may also be appropriate for certain anxiety and mood-related conditions when carefully evaluated.

Who may not be a good candidate?
Ketamine is not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical or psychiatric conditions may make this treatment unsuitable. A thorough screening with both your therapist and the prescribing provider will help determine whether this approach is safe and appropriate for you.

Will I need someone to drive me home?
Yes. Because ketamine temporarily affects perception and coordination, you will need a safe plan for transportation after in-person sessions.

Is ketamine addictive?
Ketamine does have the potential for misuse in non-medical settings. However, when used in a structured, clinically supervised context with clear boundaries and medical oversight, the risk is significantly reduced.

What happens after the series of sessions is complete?
Some clients complete a short-term series and experience lasting improvement. Others may benefit from occasional maintenance sessions. This is something we will evaluate together based on your progress and goals.