Mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain can be life-altering—especially when traditional treatments fail to provide relief. In recent years, ketamine therapy has emerged as a promising, evidence-based option for individuals seeking an alternative approach to healing.

At Matthew Goldenberg D.O., we believe in personalized, compassionate care rooted in the latest medical research. This article explores what ketamine therapy is, who it may help, and how to determine whether it could be the right treatment for you.

What Is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine is a medication that has been safely used in medical settings for decades, originally as an anesthetic. At lower, carefully controlled doses, ketamine has been shown to produce rapid antidepressant and mood-stabilizing effects.

Unlike traditional antidepressants—which can take weeks to work—ketamine therapy often provides relief within hours or days by targeting glutamate pathways in the brain and promoting neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to form new connections.

Conditions Ketamine Therapy May Help Treat

Ketamine therapy is commonly used for patients who have not responded well to conventional treatments. It may be beneficial for:

Treatment-resistant depression
Anxiety disorders
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Bipolar depression
Chronic pain conditions
Suicidal ideation (under medical supervision)

Each patient is evaluated individually to determine whether ketamine therapy is appropriate and safe.

What Makes Ketamine Therapy Different?

Traditional psychiatric medications primarily affect serotonin, dopamine, or norepinephrine. Ketamine works differently by:

Acting rapidly on NMDA and glutamate receptors
Helping “reset” maladaptive thought patterns
Supporting the brain’s ability to heal and rewire

This unique mechanism is why ketamine therapy can be life-changing for patients who feel stuck or hopeless after years of ineffective treatments.

What to Expect During Ketamine Therapy

At Matthew Goldenberg D.O., ketamine therapy is administered in a controlled, professional medical environment.

Treatments are carefully dosed and monitored
Sessions typically last 45–90 minutes
Patients are monitored before, during, and after treatment
Most patients require a series of sessions for optimal results

Safety, comfort, and personalized care are always the top priorities.

Comprehensive Q&A: Ketamine Therapy

Is ketamine therapy safe?

Yes, when administered by a qualified medical professional. Ketamine has a long history of safe medical use. Patients are thoroughly screened to ensure suitability.

Will I feel “high” during treatment?

Some patients experience mild dissociation or altered perception during sessions. These effects are temporary and closely monitored.

How soon will I feel results?

Many patients notice improvement within hours or days, though response time varies.

Is ketamine addictive?

When used in a clinical, supervised setting, ketamine therapy has a low risk of addiction. Recreational misuse is different from medical treatment.

How many sessions will I need?

Most patients begin with a short series of treatments, followed by maintenance sessions if needed. Your plan will be customized to your goals and response.

Can I continue my current medications?

In many cases, yes—but this is determined during your medical evaluation.

Who is not a good candidate?

Patients with certain medical conditions or uncontrolled substance use may not be suitable. A thorough consultation is required.