Comprehensive Wellness Services, Providing Healing and Hope in Salem, Oregon

Answering Your Key Questions

Ketamine Therapy FAQs

Have questions about Ketamine therapy? We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions to help you understand the process, benefits, and what to expect on your healing journey.

Everything You Need to Know

Ketamine Therapy FAQs

Explore answers to your most common questions about ketamine therapy, its effects, safety, and treatment expectations.

What is Ketamine and how does it work?

Ketamine is a fast-acting medication that boosts brain flexibility by creating new neural pathways, helping relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more.

Most describe it as peaceful, light, or even transformative. Some feel relaxed, while others report a gentle, dreamlike state.

You may experience a rise in blood pressure, slight nausea, or anxiety. We closely monitor you and treat any symptoms immediately.

A typical treatment plan includes six sessions over 2–3 weeks. Some patients feel relief after just one, with boosters as needed. 

We offer IV treatments because they’re the safest and most effective method. Providing the fastest response as well as longest lasting results. 

Most insurance doesn’t cover IV ketamine yet. However, we can provide a Superbill you can submit for possible reimbursement.

Yes, we offer a number of finance options. Most people prefer to use HFD as they have a very high acceptance rate, but we do also have relationships with Care Credit and Affirm.  https://prequal.gohfd.com/OnwardHealth

Yes, it’s one of the safest anesthetics. We monitor you throughout the session for blood pressure, oxygen, and heart function to ensure safety.

When administered in a controlled medical setting, ketamine has not been shown to be addictive. Treatments are carefully prescribed, dosed, and monitored by qualified medical professionals using evidence-based protocols. Unlike recreational misuse, clinical ketamine therapy is provided under strict supervision with the goal of achieving therapeutic benefit while minimizing risk. We carefully screen each patient and monitor treatment throughout the course of care to ensure safe and appropriate use.

Schedule a consultation. Our provider will review your history, medications, and symptoms to determine if Ketamine therapy is a good fit.

No. A referral is not required to begin treatment with us. While you can self-refer, we strongly encourage collaboration with your existing healthcare team whenever possible. We value coordinated care and are happy to work alongside your primary care provider, psychiatrist, therapist, or other healthcare professionals. We also gladly accept referrals from outside providers.

Yes. Someone must drive you home and stay with you for several hours post-treatment, as it may temporarily affect your coordination and judgment.

Absolutely. Ketamine works even better when paired with therapy, such as CBT, enhancing both mood and cognitive flexibility. We often combine the benefits of TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) with Ketamine treatments as well. These treatments augment each other and can lead to longer lasting results. 

Some patients feel better within hours. Most notice a steady improvement after a few sessions, especially by the third or fourth infusion.

No. Ketamine is used at sub-anesthetic doses. You remain awake but deeply relaxed or introspective during the experience.

Still Have Ketamine Treatment Questions?

Our experts are here to guide you. Whether you’re curious about treatment options or unsure where to begin, we’re ready to provide clear answers and compassionate care—every step of the way.