​FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS​

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What is ketamine therapy?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that has been used safely in medical settings since the 1960s. While FDA-approved for anesthesia, it’s now widely used off-label to support mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and trauma. When used in a therapeutic setting, ketamine can help unlock deeper healing and create space for new perspectives and emotional breakthroughs.

 

Is ketamine therapy safe?

When administered in a clinical setting with proper screening and medical oversight, ketamine therapy is generally considered safe. As with any medication, side effects can occur. These may include nausea, dizziness, temporary changes in vision or speech, and increased heart rate or blood pressure.

Rarely, psychological dependence or bladder-related issues may arise, particularly with frequent, high-dose use. Ketamine is not recommended for individuals with a history of psychosis or schizophrenia. Your Floresta clinician will carefully assess your medical and psychiatric history to determine if this treatment is right for you. Following all medical protocols helps reduce the risk of side effects.

 

How is ketamine administered at Floresta?

We use intramuscular (IM) injection for ketamine therapy, which offers a rapid onset and a deeper, more immersive therapeutic experience compared to oral, intranasal, or IV methods. IM ketamine allows for a more profound dissociative and visionary state—ideal for the healing work done in our retreat setting.

 

What does the ketamine experience feel like?

Every journey is unique, but many describe a deep sense of calm, expanded awareness, and a gentle disconnection from day-to-day identity or thoughts. You may feel increased empathy, clarity, creativity, or a sense of oneness with the world around you. It can feel like a meditative, dreamlike, or even spiritual experience—often described as a “reset” for the mind.

 

Why choose ketamine therapy?

Ketamine works by enhancing neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. It increases levels of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which helps create the conditions for change, healing, and new insights. Within a supportive retreat container, this creates a powerful opportunity to release old patterns and access new levels of emotional and mental well-being.

 

Can ketamine therapy help me get off antidepressants?

Possibly—with care and support. Many individuals have successfully used ketamine therapy to ease the process of tapering off antidepressants. However, this should always be done in collaboration with your current prescriber. Floresta can support you as part of a coordinated care plan with your existing provider to ensure a safe and gradual transition.

 

Why is ketamine considered "off-label" for mental health?

“Off-label” simply means a medication is being used for a purpose other than what it was originally FDA-approved for. This is a common and legal practice in medicine—nearly 20% of prescriptions are written off-label. Extensive research and clinical use support ketamine’s effectiveness in treating mental health conditions, even if the FDA hasn’t formally approved it for those specific uses.

 

What if I have a ‘bad trip’ or fall into a K-hole?

Your Floresta care team is here to ensure you’re supported every step of the way. Ketamine often promotes calm and stillness, and many describe it as peaceful or meditative. If you do encounter a challenging moment, it’s seen as part of the healing process—and we’re trained to help you navigate it safely, with compassion and guidance. You’re never alone in the journey.

 

What if I don’t qualify after my evaluation?

If it’s determined during your psychiatric evaluation that ketamine therapy isn’t a safe or appropriate fit for you, you’ll receive a full refund. Our first priority is your safety and well-being.