- question: "How do I know if I am a candidate for ketamine therapy?

Ketamine therapy is most commonly recommended for patients who have not responded adequately to at least two traditional antidepressants, a condition known as treatment-resistant depression. It is also used for severe anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and suicidal ideation. You may be a candidate if you have tried conventional treatments without sufficient relief and do not have contraindications such as uncontrolled hypertension, active psychosis, or untreated substance use disorder. A qualified provider will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine your eligibility. See our [complete guide to ketamine therapy](/guides/complete-guide-to-ketamine-therapy/) for a full overview.

Do I need a referral from my primary care doctor or psychiatrist?

Most ketamine therapy providers do not require a formal referral. You can typically contact a ketamine clinic or telehealth provider directly and schedule an initial evaluation. However, informing your current treatment team about your interest in ketamine therapy is strongly recommended, as coordination between providers leads to better care. Some insurance plans that cover Spravato may require a referral or prior authorization from your existing provider.

What should I bring to my initial consultation?

Come prepared with a complete list of your current medications and supplements, your psychiatric treatment history including medications you have tried and their outcomes, relevant medical records, information about any past hospitalizations, a list of your current diagnoses, and questions you want to ask the provider. The more complete your information, the more thorough and efficient the evaluation will be.

How long does the evaluation process take before I can start treatment?

The initial evaluation typically takes 45 to 90 minutes and can often be completed in a single appointment. For in-clinic treatment, you may be able to schedule your first session within days of being approved. Telehealth programs may take one to two weeks from initial consultation to receiving your medication, as the prescription needs to be filled by a compounding pharmacy and shipped to your home. Some providers require additional steps like blood work or clearance from your primary care physician.

Can I continue my current medications while doing ketamine therapy?

In most cases, yes. Ketamine therapy is generally compatible with most psychiatric medications including SSRIs, SNRIs, and mood stabilizers. However, certain medications may need adjustment. Benzodiazepines may reduce ketamine's therapeutic effectiveness and some providers ask patients to skip their benzodiazepine dose on treatment days. Lamotrigine may also interact with ketamine's mechanism. Your provider will review your complete medication list and advise you on any necessary changes.

Is there an age requirement for ketamine therapy?

Ketamine therapy for psychiatric conditions is typically offered to adults aged 18 and older. Spravato is FDA-approved for adults only. Some providers treat patients aged 16 to 17 with parental consent and careful clinical justification, but this is less common. For older adults, ketamine therapy can be effective, though providers may take additional precautions regarding cardiovascular monitoring and dosing adjustments. There is no upper age cutoff, but individual health status determines suitability.

What if I have tried ketamine before and it did not work?

A single unsuccessful experience does not necessarily mean ketamine therapy will never work for you. Outcomes depend on the route of administration, dosing, number of sessions, and whether the treatment was combined with therapy or integration work. If you previously tried a low-dose sublingual program without results, IV infusions at a different dose may be effective. Similarly, if you did not complete a full treatment series, you may not have given the treatment an adequate trial. Discuss your previous experience in detail with a new provider to determine whether a different approach could be beneficial.

How do I find a reputable ketamine provider in my area?

Start by searching for board-certified psychiatrists or anesthesiologists who offer ketamine therapy in your region. Professional organizations such as the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists and Practitioners (ASKP3) maintain provider directories. You can also search for Spravato-certified facilities through the REMS program website. For telehealth options, research companies that have published clinical outcomes data, require thorough evaluations, and employ licensed prescribers. Always verify provider credentials through your state medical board. Our guide on [finding the right ketamine provider](/guides/finding-the-right-ketamine-provider/) covers this process in detail.

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Getting Started with Ketamine Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

Name: ketaminepath
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Common questions and answers about starting ketamine therapy — who qualifies, how to begin, what the first steps look like, and what to know before your initial consultation.

February 23, 2026

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Getting Started with Ketamine Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

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