If you’re considering ketamine therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, or chronic pain, knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and confident going in. At Gateway Clinics in Santa Monica, we’ve designed every step of the process to prioritize your safety, comfort, and outcomes.
Before Your First Session
Every patient at Gateway Clinics begins with a free consultation with Medical Director Dr. Adam Schenk, MD. During this visit, Dr. Schenk will:
- Review your complete medical history and current medications
- Discuss your treatment goals and what you hope to achieve
- Explain the ketamine therapy process in detail
- Determine whether IV ketamine is appropriate for your condition
- Answer any questions you have about the treatment
If ketamine therapy is a good fit, you’ll typically schedule your first infusion within one week.
Arriving for Your Infusion
When you arrive at our Montana Avenue clinic, you’ll notice something different right away: it’s quiet. Gateway Clinics treats a maximum of two patients at a time, so there’s no crowded waiting room or rushed atmosphere.
Your care team will take your vitals, confirm your medications, and help you get settled in a comfortable treatment chair. You’re welcome to bring headphones, an eye mask, or a blanket — many patients find that music or guided meditation enhances their experience.
During the Infusion
The IV ketamine infusion itself lasts 40-60 minutes. Here’s what most patients experience:
- First 5-10 minutes: You may notice a slight floating sensation or mild light-headedness as the ketamine begins to take effect
- Middle of session: Many patients describe a dreamlike or meditative state. Some experience visual imagery or a sense of emotional release. You remain conscious throughout
- Final minutes: The effects gradually ease as the infusion completes
Dr. Schenk monitors your vitals continuously and can adjust the dosing in real-time — one of the key advantages of IV administration over other delivery methods.
After the Infusion
You’ll rest at the clinic for 15-30 minutes after the infusion ends. Most patients feel a mix of calm and mild drowsiness. The perceptual effects typically resolve within 1-2 hours.
Important: You will need someone to drive you home. Plan for approximately 90 minutes total per visit.
Many patients report noticing an improvement in mood within hours to days of their first session — a stark contrast to traditional antidepressants, which often take 4-6 weeks.
The Full Treatment Protocol
Gateway Clinics follows a 6-session protocol over three weeks:
- Sessions 1 & 2: Scheduled 24 hours apart
- One-week rest period with optional integration therapy
- Sessions 3 & 4: Scheduled 24 hours apart
After the initial series, Dr. Schenk evaluates your response and may recommend periodic maintenance sessions. Integration therapy with our licensed therapists — Ryan Brewer, LMFT and Beth Kadlec, LCSW — can help you process and sustain the benefits.
Related: Depression Treatment in Santa Monica: Complete Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be unconscious during the infusion?
No. Ketamine therapy uses sub-anesthetic doses, meaning you remain conscious throughout the session. Most patients describe a relaxed, dreamlike state while remaining aware of their surroundings.
Can I eat before my session?
We recommend a light meal 2-3 hours before your appointment. Avoid heavy meals immediately before the infusion, as mild nausea can occasionally occur. If needed, anti-nausea medication is available.
How soon can I return to normal activities?
Most patients feel back to normal within 2-4 hours after the infusion. However, you should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or make major decisions for the remainder of the day.
Ketamine Therapy Near You
Gateway Clinics serves patients from across LA’s Westside from our Santa Monica clinic: