Ketamine-Assisted Therapy FAQs
If you’re exploring ketamine-assisted therapy or considering ketamine treatment for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other mental health concerns, this FAQ section is here to help. Below, we answer frequently asked questions about how ketamine therapy works, what to expect during treatment, safety considerations, and how it can support emotional healing and symptom relief.
Whether you’re new to this treatment or researching options in Arkansas, these answers are designed to give you clear, trustworthy information.
What is Ketamine Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy?
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) combines the use of ketamine, a dissociative medicine, with intentional psychotherapy to help address depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health challenges. The ketamine experience can create a unique state of mind that allows for deeper emotional processing, increased self-awareness, and breakthroughs in therapy.
How does Ketamine therapy work?
Ketamine interacts with certain receptors in the brain, promoting rapid changes in mood, perception, and cognition. In a therapeutic setting, this shift can help you access parts of your inner experience that are often difficult to reach in traditional talk therapy, opening the door to meaningful insights and healing.
Is Ketamine therapy safe?
When administered by trained professionals in a controlled, therapeutic environment, ketamine therapy is considered safe for most people. Our medical and therapy teams closely monitor you throughout your session. As with any medical treatment, there are potential side effects and risks, which we review with every patient before treatment begins.
What conditions can Ketamine therapy treat?
Research and clinical experience show ketamine therapy can be helpful for:
- Depression (including treatment-resistant depression)
- Anxiety disorders
- PTSD
- OCD
- Certain mood disorders
(Studies are ongoing to explore additional applications)
How long does a Ketamine therapy session last?
At Rock City Counseling, your treatment day is designed as a full healing experience, not just a medical appointment. You’ll begin with a gentle yoga practice to ground the body, followed by guided intention setting to prepare your mind and heart for the journey. From there, you’ll move into the ketamine session itself, supported by our experienced team, and close with an initial integration period.
The entire process typically lasts 2.5–3 hours from start to finish, giving you the time and space to fully immerse in and begin processing your experience.
How many sessions are required for Ketamine therapy to be effective?
Everyone’s journey is different. Some people notice a significant shift after one session, while others benefit most from a series—often 4–6 sessions—spaced over several weeks. We tailor the plan to your needs and goals.
What can I expect during a Ketamine therapy session?
You’ll be in a safe, comfortable space with your treatment team present at all times. This includes a licensed therapist, therapy technicians (sitters), and medical staff, ensuring you are fully supported throughout your journey. Our medical provider will administer ketamine via intramuscular injection, and you’ll rest on a full-size bed in a reclined position, with optional eye shades and music to enhance your experience. Every detail—from the spacious bed to the calming environment—is designed to help you feel secure, supported, and deeply comfortable. Your care team will remain with you from start to finish, providing guidance, reassurance, and compassionate presence every step of the way.
What is “integration” and why is it important?
Integration is the process of making sense of and applying the insights from your ketamine session to your daily life. This is where long-term change happens. We schedule integration sessions as part of your treatment plan to help you ground and act on what you’ve learned.
Are there any reasons someone should not do Ketamine therapy?
KAP may not be recommended for people with certain health conditions such as uncontrolled high blood pressure, active psychosis, or certain substance use disorders. We do a thorough medical and mental health screening to ensure the treatment is safe for you.
How can I prepare for a Ketamine therapy session?
We recommend:
- Avoiding heavy meals and alcohol beforehand
- Staying hydrated
- Getting a good night’s sleep
- Wearing comfortable clothing
- Sharing your full medication list with our team
Is Ketamine therapy covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans do not cover ketamine-assisted psychotherapy at this time. However, we can provide documentation for you to submit for potential out-of-network reimbursement.
What happens after I complete treatment?
Many people continue to benefit from periodic “booster” sessions and ongoing integration therapy. We’ll work with you to create a personalized plan for long-term support.
