The Essential Guide to Preparing for Your First Ketamine Infusion for PTSD
If you’re exploring a ketamine infusion for PTSD, you’ve likely already tried therapy, medication, or self-help approaches that didn’t bring the relief you need. You’re not alone, and you’re not out of options.
At AlphaOmega Wellness, we’ve helped hundreds of patients just like you navigate their first ketamine experience with clarity, safety, and healing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect before, during, and after your infusion, especially if you’re managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
What Makes Ketamine Therapy Different
Unlike traditional antidepressants, ketamine works by activating glutamate and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), helping your brain “rewire” and form new, healthier neural pathways. This can be especially impactful for those with trauma-related disorders like PTSD.
In other words, a ketamine infusion for PTSD doesn’t just numb your symptoms it creates the conditions for real, lasting change.
1. What to Expect During a Ketamine Infusion for PTSD
Each ketamine infusion at our office takes about 40 minutes, followed by a 20–30 minute recovery period. You’ll rest in a private room with dim lighting, a reclining chair, and optional music or eye mask. Our team will monitor you closely the entire time.
You remain conscious, though your awareness may shift. Most patients describe the experience as peaceful, introspective, or even surreal but always temporary and manageable.
2. Set an Intention Before Your Session
Setting an intention gives your mind something to return to if emotions or memories rise up during the session.
Examples:
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“I want to feel safe in my body again.”
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“I’m ready to let go of fear.”
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“I want to reconnect with who I really am.”
This step is especially grounding for those receiving a ketamine infusion for PTSD, as it creates a sense of purpose and personal agency in the healing process.
3. Understand How Trauma Can Affect the Ketamine Experience
PTSD patients may experience dissociation, hypervigilance, or body-based trauma responses even before starting ketamine. That’s why preparing with trauma-informed care is essential.
Yes, ketamine can produce dissociation but in a therapeutic setting, it’s not the same as a trauma-triggered episode. You’re monitored, supported, and able to communicate with your provider at any time.
Many of our patients describe it as the first time they’ve felt relief from constant hyperarousal.
We encourage bringing comfort items, using grounding tools, and telling us anything that helps you feel emotionally safe. Your experience matters and your nervous system deserves to feel safe.
4. Preparing Your Mind and Environment
Your mindset (“set”) and surroundings (“setting”) strongly impact your experience. Here’s how to optimize both:
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Sleep well the night before
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Eat lightly 4 hours before your infusion
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Wear comfortable clothes
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Bring grounding items, like a favorite blanket or photo
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Use calming music or guided meditations
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Practice deep breathing or box breathing (4-4-4-4)
These steps help you feel calm and reduce anxiety before starting your ketamine infusion for PTSD.
5. After the Infusion: Self-Care and Integration
Ketamine opens a window of neuroplasticity, your brain becomes more adaptable for 24–72 hours afterward.
Here’s how to make the most of that window:
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Journal your experience
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Stay hydrated and rest
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Avoid emotionally intense situations
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Engage in gentle movement (yoga, walking)
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Schedule an integration session with your therapist or coach
🧠 Will I lose control?
No. While your thoughts may feel dreamlike, you’re still aware and communicative. If anything feels uncomfortable, we can pause or adjust the infusion immediately.
😟 What if I panic or have a bad trip?
It’s rare. We use slow IV infusions that are easy to adjust in real time. Our trauma-trained staff is always present and can guide you through grounding techniques or music changes.
🌀 What if I dissociate?
Dissociation can be part of the experience, but it’s different from trauma-triggered disconnection. It often brings mental relief. You’ll be supported and monitored the entire time.
⏳ When will I feel better?
Most PTSD patients notice mood shifts within the first 1–3 infusions. Deeper breakthroughs often occur by infusion 4–6, especially when paired with intention setting and integration therapy.
External Support and Resources
For more science on how ketamine helps PTSD, we recommend this research summary from MAPS.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Broken
If PTSD has taken over your life, you may feel like healing is out of reach. But we want to remind you: your brain is not broken, itt’s wounded. And wounds can heal.
A ketamine infusion for PTSD may be the first step toward reclaiming joy, calm, and safety in your body again. At AlphaOmega Wellness, we’ll walk with you through every part of that process.
Ready to talk with someone?
Book a free consultation and let’s explore whether ketamine therapy is the right next step for you.