How to Prepare for Ketamine Therapy

Why Preparation Matters

Preparing for ketamine therapy is about more than just showing up to your appointment. The work you do before your session — physically, mentally, and logistically — can meaningfully influence the quality of your experience and potentially the effectiveness of your treatment. Think of it as setting the stage for your body and mind to receive the most benefit.

This guide walks you through everything you need to do in the days and hours leading up to your ketamine treatment session.

Physical Preparation

Dietary Guidelines

Most providers will ask you to fast for four to six hours before your session. This means no food and only clear liquids (water is always fine). Fasting reduces the risk of nausea, which is one of the more common side effects of ketamine therapy. If you are prone to nausea, mention this to your provider — they may prescribe an anti-nausea medication to take before your session.

On the day before your treatment, eat balanced, nourishing meals. Avoid heavy, greasy foods and excessive caffeine. Staying well-hydrated in the days leading up to your session is also helpful, as proper hydration supports healthy blood pressure during treatment.

Medications and Supplements

Share your complete medication list with your provider well before your first session. Some medications may need to be adjusted or temporarily paused. In particular, benzodiazepines (like Xanax or Klonopin) and certain other medications can potentially reduce the effectiveness of ketamine therapy. Your provider will give you specific guidance based on your situation.

Do not stop or change any medication without direct guidance from your prescribing physician. This is a collaborative decision between you and your medical team.

Sleep and Rest

Aim for a good night of sleep before your treatment. Being well-rested helps your body and mind be in the best possible state to receive treatment. If sleep has been a challenge for you — which is common for people seeking ketamine therapy — do your best to create a restful environment the night before. Avoid screens for an hour before bed, keep your room cool and dark, and try gentle relaxation techniques.

Mental Preparation

Setting an Intention

Many therapists and ketamine providers recommend setting a gentle intention before your session. This does not need to be complicated or profound. It might be as simple as "I am open to healing" or "I want to understand my anxiety better" or even "I am here for myself."

An intention gives your mind a quiet anchor during the session. It is not a goal you need to achieve — it is more like a compass direction. If your mind wanders during the session (and it will), the intention gives you something meaningful to return to.

Managing Expectations

One of the most important aspects of mental preparation is managing your expectations. Ketamine therapy can be genuinely transformative, but it is not a magic fix. Understanding how ketamine works in the brain can help ground your expectations in science. Some people feel significant relief after their very first session, while others need several sessions before noticing changes. Both experiences are normal and valid.

Try to approach your session with curiosity rather than pressure. The experience itself will be unique to you — there is no "right" way to feel during or after treatment.

Addressing Anxiety

It is completely normal to feel anxious before your first session. You might worry about losing control, having an unpleasant experience, or simply not knowing what to expect. These concerns are valid, and acknowledging them is actually part of good preparation.

Consider talking to your provider about your anxiety. They can walk you through exactly what will happen during the session, which often helps reduce fear of the unknown. Some patients find it helpful to visit the clinic before their treatment day so the space feels familiar.

Logistical Preparation

Transportation

You will not be able to drive for at least several hours after your session, and most providers recommend not driving for the rest of the day. Arrange a ride home in advance — whether that is a friend, family member, or rideshare service. Having this sorted out beforehand means you will not need to worry about it on treatment day.

Comfortable Clothing

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your appointment. You will be reclining for the duration of the session, so comfort matters. Layers are a good idea since your body temperature perception may fluctuate during the treatment. Leave jewelry and watches at home if possible — you want to minimize distractions.

What to Bring

Pack a small bag with essentials: your ID, insurance card, a water bottle, a light snack for afterward, and any comfort items your provider has approved (like a personal eye mask or headphones). Some patients like to bring a journal to write down thoughts or feelings after the session while the experience is still fresh.

Clear Your Schedule

Block off the rest of your day after your appointment. Even though the active treatment period is relatively short, you may feel tired, emotionally sensitive, or simply reflective afterward. Give yourself permission to take it easy. This is not the day for important meetings, difficult conversations, or demanding tasks.

The Day Of

On the morning of your treatment, keep things simple and calm. Follow your fasting guidelines, take any medications your provider has approved, and take a few quiet minutes to revisit your intention. Some people find it helpful to do a brief meditation, take a gentle walk, or simply sit quietly with a cup of tea. For a detailed packing list and day-of checklist, see our first appointment checklist.

Arrive at the clinic a bit early so you are not rushing. Check in, settle into the space, and trust that you have done the work to prepare. The rest is about showing up and being open to the experience.

References

• MedlinePlus: Ketamine Injection — National Library of Medicine drug information on ketamine, including preparation and precautions
• Mayo Clinic: Treatment-Resistant Depression — Mayo Clinic overview of treatment-resistant depression and ketamine-based treatment options
• NIMH: Depression Overview — National Institute of Mental Health information on depression symptoms and treatments