Everything You Need to Know About How Ketamine Therapy Works
- John M. Thurston, MD
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 9
Ketamine therapy is transforming the way we approach mental health and chronic pain treatment. Once known primarily as an anesthetic, ketamine is now being used in carefully controlled clinical settings to help patients find relief from depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions when traditional therapies are not enough.
At North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, we specialize in providing evidence-based ketamine infusion therapy designed to restore balance and improve quality of life. Led by John M. Thurston, MD, our clinic combines advanced science with compassionate care to create treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
What Is Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine therapy involves administering low doses of ketamine intravenously in a monitored medical environment. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to work, ketamine often produces noticeable improvements within hours or days.
Ketamine’s therapeutic effects are linked to its ability to:
Target NMDA receptors: This influences neurotransmitter activity in the brain
Promote neuroplasticity: Encourages the brain to form new, healthier connections
Reset pain and mood pathways: Helps “retrain” the nervous system to respond differently to stress, trauma, and chronic pain
Conditions Ketamine Therapy Can Help Treat
At North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, we provide ketamine therapy as part of personalized treatment plans for a variety of conditions, including:
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Generalized anxiety disorder
Fibromyalgia and other chronic pain syndromes
Migraines and neuropathic pain
If you have not experienced results with traditional medications or therapy, ketamine therapy may offer a new path forward.
How Ketamine Therapy Works
Ketamine works differently from most mental health and pain treatments by directly impacting the glutamate system, which plays a key role in mood regulation and pain perception. By promoting neuroplasticity, ketamine allows the brain to “rewire” itself and form new, healthier patterns of activity.
For many patients, this results in:
Reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety
Relief from chronic pain and inflammation
Improved sleep and energy levels
Increased ability to process trauma and engage in therapy
These benefits often begin within hours or days, making ketamine therapy an especially promising option for individuals who need faster results.
What to Expect During a Ketamine Infusion
We design every ketamine therapy session around patient comfort and safety. Here is what you can expect:
Consultation — We start with a thorough evaluation to determine eligibility and create a personalized plan.
Preparation — You will relax in a comfortable setting while our team prepares your infusion.
Infusion session — A small IV delivers ketamine at a carefully controlled, therapeutic dose. Sessions typically last 40 to 60 minutes.
Recovery — After your infusion, you will rest briefly in our clinic before returning home.
Ongoing care — Multiple sessions may be recommended to achieve lasting results, and our team tracks your progress every step of the way.
Advantages of Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine therapy offers several unique benefits compared to traditional treatment options:
Fast-acting relief: Some patients notice improvements after the first infusion
Effective for treatment-resistant conditions: Offers hope when other treatments have failed
Non-opioid and non-habit forming: A safer alternative for long-term pain management
Supports emotional well-being: Reduced pain and improved mood often go hand-in-hand
Personalized Care at North Idaho Ketamine & TMS
At our clinic, ketamine therapy is more than a procedure — it is part of a comprehensive, patient-centered approach. We offer:
Experienced leadership: John M. Thurston, MD specializes in innovative treatments backed by research
Integrated options: Alongside ketamine, we provide TMS therapy and CTK therapy, which combines both treatments for enhanced outcomes
Support for veterans and first responders: Through the Patriot Power Up Program, we connect qualifying patients with specialized resources
Compassionate care: Every session takes place in a calm, supportive environment designed for comfort and safety
FAQs About Ketamine Therapy
How quickly does ketamine therapy work? Some patients notice results within hours or days, though a full treatment plan usually involves multiple sessions for lasting benefits.
Is ketamine therapy safe? Yes. Ketamine therapy is administered under medical supervision in a controlled setting to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Will insurance cover ketamine therapy? Coverage varies. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit https://www.northidahoketamine.com/book-online.
Key Takeaways
Ketamine therapy is an innovative treatment option helping residents of Coeur d’Alene and North Idaho find relief from depression, PTSD, chronic pain, and more. At North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, we combine cutting-edge science with compassionate care to help patients achieve meaningful, lasting results.
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