Ketamine Therapy Explained | Preparation, Integration, and Finding the Right Clinic

Ketamine therapy is gaining attention as a mental health treatment, but what should you know before considering it? Is it a psychedelic? Who might benefit from it? And what does responsible treatment actually look like? Dr. John Sanders sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Reid Robison and clinical psychologist Dr. Steve Thayer to answer some of the biggest questions surrounding ketamine therapy. Together, they unpack how ketamine moved from anesthesia into mental health care, what makes its effects different from traditional antidepressants, and why it has generated so much interest.They discuss what to look for in a reputable clinic, the importance of screening and psychological support, and what the research does—and doesn't—tell us about ketamine treatment. They also walk through how to prepare for a session, what integration can look like afterward, and why expectations and support matter throughout the process. Dr. Robison and Dr. Thayer also address potential risks, including misuse and dependence, and the safeguards that can help keep treatment in a clinical context. Whether you’re considering ketamine with your healthcare provider or simply curious about how it works, this conversation offers a grounded introduction to the benefits, limitations, and unanswered questions surrounding ketamine therapy. Chapters [Start] What Is Ketamine Therapy?: How ketamine moved from anesthesia into mental health care and what makes the experience different. 12:28 Finding a Reputable Ketamine Clinic: What to look for in a provider and why screening, preparation, and mental health support matter. 19:21 What Does the Research Show?: Where the evidence is strongest, what remains unanswered, and how ketamine differs from Spravato. 32:02 Preparing for Ketamine Therapy: How education, expectations, intentions, and grounding techniques can help patients approach a session. 39:27 Integration and Aftercare: How rest, reflection, therapy, and everyday habits can help patients process the experience. 46:01 Addiction, Dependence, and Safety: Why ketamine can be misused and how screening and clinical safeguards can reduce risk. Links & Resources https://voyageclinics.com/  Connect with Dr. Robison: https://www.reidrobison.com/ Connect with Dr. Thayer: https://drstevethayer.com/  Disclaimer: The content provided in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice nor as a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.