Step-by-Step Guide to a Safe Ketamine Therapy Visit in Coeur d’Alene
- John M. Thurston, MD
- Oct 8
- 3 min read
Starting a new treatment can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to ketamine infusion therapy. At North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, our goal is to make the process as safe, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. This guide walks you through exactly what to expect from your first consultation to your last session, so you can feel confident and prepared.
Led by John M. Thurston, MD, our clinic specializes in innovative, evidence-based treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions. Here is everything you need to know before your visit.
Step 1 — Schedule Your Consultation
Your journey begins with an initial consultation. During this visit, our team will:
Answer any questions you have
Discuss your treatment goals and expectations
Explore alternative or complementary options like TMS therapy or CTK therapy
Schedule your visit easily through our contact us page.
Step 2 - Initial Evaluation
During the initial evaluation you will meet with Dr. Thurston and the Infusion Team to:
Determine whether ketamine infusion therapy is right for you.
Get comfortable with the treatment space
Learn tips and tricks to get the most out of treatment
Height, weight and blood pressure are taken to prepare for the first infusion
Scheduling your first infusion.
Step 2 — Preparing for Your First Session
Before your first infusion, our staff provides you with clear preparation guidelines, which may include:
Eating a light meal a few hours beforehand
Arranging for someone to drive you home after the session
Wearing comfortable clothing for maximum relaxation
Bringing headphones or music if you prefer a calming environment
Our team ensures you have everything you need for a smooth, worry-free experience.
Step 3 — Arriving at the Clinic
When you arrive at North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, you’ll be greeted by our friendly staff and taken to a private, comfortable treatment room. We designed our clinic with patient safety and relaxation in mind to help you feel at ease from the moment you walk through the door.
Step 4 — Starting the Ketamine Infusion
Here is what happens during your infusion session:
A small IV line is inserted into your arm or hand
Ketamine is delivered at a carefully controlled dose tailored to your needs
You’ll be monitored closely by our medical team throughout the process
Sessions are booked for 2 hours but some people are in the clinic longer or shorter depending on the recovery time, such as time spent journaling or processing their experience. The infusion lasts 60 minutes.
Many patients describe feeling calm, relaxed, and even introspective during their infusions.
Learn more about our process on the ketamine infusion page.
Step 5 — Post-Treatment Recovery
After the infusion, you’ll rest comfortably in your treatment room until you’re ready to leave. Most patients report:
Feeling relaxed and refreshed
Experiencing mild side effects, such as dizziness or lightheadedness, which typically resolve quickly
Noticing improvements in mood and clarity within hours or days
Because ketamine affects reflexes temporarily, you’ll need someone to drive you home.
Step 6 — Ongoing Treatment Plan
Ketamine therapy typically involves a series of sessions for the best long-term results. Our team will create a personalized treatment plan based on your condition and progress, which may include:
Multiple infusions spaced over several weeks, usually twice a week for three weeks. Think 21 days to a new habit.
Integration with TMS therapy for enhanced outcomes
Continued follow-up visits to monitor progress
We stay closely involved at every step to ensure your treatment is safe, effective, and comfortable.
FAQs About Ketamine Therapy
Is ketamine therapy safe? Yes. All infusions are administered under medical supervision in a controlled environment for your safety.
How quickly will I feel results? Many patients notice improvements within hours or days, though full results typically require multiple sessions.
Will insurance cover ketamine therapy?
Coverage varies, and most plans do not currently include ketamine therapy for mental health. For the most accurate information, see our https://www.northidahoketamine.com/insurance-and-payment-info.
Key Takeaways
At North Idaho Ketamine & TMS, we are committed to making ketamine therapy a safe, comfortable, and effective experience. Our step-by-step process ensures that every patient feels supported, informed, and confident throughout their treatment journey.
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