How to Prepare for Your Ketamine Dosing Session in Baltimore, MD
If you are considering ketamine therapy in Baltimore, Maryland, preparing properly can make your treatment more effective and meaningful. Being prepared can also help you feel more comfortable too, and that’s important! A ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) session is not a typical therapy appointment. It’s an intentionally curated space for healing, reflection, and growth that involves the use of a medication and a trained and attuned therapist. By following a few preparation steps, you can ensure that your body and mind are ready for the experience. Whether you’re exploring ketamine treatment for depression in Baltimore, addressing anxiety, or seeking trauma treatment, preparation is key to getting the most from your session and having a positive experience.
What to Avoid Before Your Ketamine Therapy Session
To maximize the benefits of your ketamine treatment for depression in Baltimore, there are several things you should avoid beforehand.
Food and Drink: Do not eat or drink for at least four hours before your appointment. This helps reduce nausea and prevents unnecessary interruptions.
Substances: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, cannabis, and benzodiazepines (including clonazepam, lorazepam, and alprazolam) for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. These substances can interfere with the effects of ketamine therapy.
Media Overload: Disconnect from phones, social media, and the news. A quieter mental state allows you to begin your psychedelic therapy session in Baltimore with greater focus and openness.
Important Note on Medications
If you are taking psychiatric medications or other prescriptions, always follow your medical provider’s instructions. Do not alter your regular medication schedule unless advised by your healthcare team.
Arranging Safe Transportation
After a ketamine dosing session, you may feel deeply relaxed or introspective, making it unsafe to drive yourself home.
Ask a trusted friend or family member to act as your chaperone.
If that isn’t possible, you may use a ride-sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. LifeSpring Counseling Services’ Baltimore City office is located directly in front of the Baltimore City lightrail’s Woodberry stop, making public transportation another great option.
You’ll sign a release form allowing your therapist to communicate with your chaperone about logistics or emergencies if needed.
Having reliable transportation ensures that your Baltimore ketamine treatment is safe from start to finish.
What to Bring on the Day of Your Ketamine Session at our Baltimore, MD Office
Bringing the right items can help you feel more comfortable and supported during your experience.
Your ketamine prescription. Open the packet beforehand and review your provider’s dosing instructions.
Anti-nausea medication. If prescribed Tums or Zofran (ondansetron), bring them along and follow your provider’s guidance.
Eyeshades. Strongly recommended for blocking visual distractions and deepening your internal focus.
Pillows and Blankets. These familiar items can bring comfort, warmth, and a sense of safety.
Comfortable Clothing. Choose soft, loose layers that make it easy to adjust to temperature changes.
Water Bottle and Light Snack. To help you rehydrate and ground yourself after the session.
Optional Items for a Deeper Experience
To enhance your ketamine treatment for depression in Baltimore, consider bringing…
Comfort Objects. Personal items such as photographs, meaningful tokens, or small objects that help you feel grounded and connected to your intention.
Journal or Art Supplies. After your session, you may want to write down reflections or express your experience through drawing. These tools are especially helpful during integration therapy. Your LifeSpring therapist will also have some journaling and art supplies handy to help you write down your thoughts or get your ideas on paper.
Preparing for Psychedelic Therapy in Baltimore
Taking time to prepare for your ketamine dosing session is a powerful part of the healing process. By avoiding substances, arranging safe transportation, and bringing items that promote comfort and reflection, you set the stage for a meaningful therapeutic experience.
At LifeSpring Counseling Services, we offer specialized ketamine treatment for depression in Baltimore to support individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy offers a unique opportunity to reset, heal, and grow.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, reach out today to learn more about ketamine treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief in Baltimore and how our team can guide you on this transformative journey.
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Interested in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Anxiety, Depression, or Trauma?
If you’re a Marylander who knows that counseling is the direction you need to take, the therapists at LifeSpring Counseling Services are here to help. We offer online counseling services for mindfulness, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief and loss. We also offer Brainspotting as a specialized service, and Brainspotting can be done online, too!
Here’s how you can get started! Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, and trauma aren’t the only services offered at our Baltimore, MD office.
The counselors and social workers at our Maryland office also offer counseling services for trauma, grief and loss, boundary setting, communication skills, and difficult life transitions. We also offer specialized counseling services including Brainspotting and spiritually-integrated counseling. Because we are located next to several local universities, we also work with college students.
