# What to Expect at Your First Ketamine Therapy Session > What happens at your first ketamine session: screening, dosing, the infusion itself and recovery, explained step by step by Seda A. Port, NP. - Type: post - URL: https://zenintegrativecare.com/first-ketamine-therapy-session-what-to-expect/ - Updated: 2026-08-29T01:16:51+00:00 ## About this page What happens at your first ketamine session: screening, dosing, the infusion itself and recovery, explained step by step by Seda A. Port, NP. ## Key facts - Phone: +1 (516) 610-0604 - Email: info@zenintegrativecare.com - Location: Carle Place, NY - Serving: Long Island, NY · New York City, NY · Nassau County, NY · Suffolk County, NY - Logo: /storage/projects/30/files/assets/852c08b1aec16f9a.webp ## Page content ## What to Expect at Your First Ketamine Therapy Session By Seda A. Port, NPApr 17, 2026 Embarking on a journey toward mental wellness often involves navigating unfamiliar territory, especially when moving beyond traditional therapies. If you have been struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or your first ketamine infusion experience represents a significant step toward relief. (If you… ## The Core Question For many patients in Nassau and Suffolk County, the primary concern is not whether ketamine works—numerous clinical studies have already validated its efficacy—but rather what the physical and emotional sensation actually feels like. Because ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, the experience is unlike starting a… It is important to frame the first infusion as an introductory session. While some patients report immediate shifts in mood, the first visit is primarily about establishing your physiological baseline and helping your system acclimate to the medicine. The process is highly controlled and monitored by medical… ## Background and Context Ketamine has been used in clinical settings for decades, primarily as an anesthetic in surgical theaters and emergency departments. Its transition into the mental health field occurred when researchers noticed that sub-anesthetic doses—levels far lower than those used in surgery—produced rapid anti-depressant effects.… In a specialized clinic setting, ketamine is typically administered via an intravenous (IV) drip. This method is preferred by medical providers because it allows for precise control over the dosage and the rate of absorption. If a patient feels the experience is becoming too intense, the infusion can be slowed or… ## The Key Facts Preparing for your first appointment involves both physical and mental readiness. Knowing the logistics can help you feel more grounded as you enter the clinic. Here are the essential facts regarding your first ketamine infusion experience: - Fast Before Your Appointment: Most clinics require patients to abstain from food for at least four to six hours prior to the infusion and clear liquids for two… - Vitals are Monitored: Throughout the 40 to 60-minute infusion, a medical professional will monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels to ensure… - The Environment is Controlled: You will typically be in a private, quiet room with dimmed lighting, a comfortable recliner, and the option to wear an eye mask… - You Remain Conscious: Though you may feel “dreamy” or distant, you are not under twilight sedation. You can speak and open your eyes at any time if you need to… ## Related - [Ketamine Safety, Side Effects, and Who Should Avoid It](https://zenintegrativecare.com/ketamine-safety-side-effects/) - [How Ketamine Works in the Brain: A Patient-Friendly Guide](https://zenintegrativecare.com/how-ketamine-works-brain/) - [The Role of Integration Therapy After Ketamine Treatment](https://zenintegrativecare.com/integration-therapy-after-ketamine/) - [IV Ketamine vs. Spravato: Which Is Right for You?](https://zenintegrativecare.com/ketamine-vs-spravato/) - [Long Island Mental Health Resources: A 2026 Directory](https://zenintegrativecare.com/long-island-mental-health-resources/)