A ketamine journey does not begin when the medicine starts. It begins with how you prepare.
At ReNew Wellness, preparation is part of the treatment. When you arrive, you may be invited to complete a brief intention-setting prompt. This helps activate the reflective part of the brain and gives the care team a window into how you are arriving that day.
Your intention does not need to be perfect. Curiosity is often more useful than expectation. You might ask for help reconnecting with yourself, understanding what your anxiety is protecting you from, seeing what you need to see, or feeling compassion for the part of you that is struggling.
Body preparation matters too. Your provider will review your specific instructions, but many patients are asked to fast before treatment, hydrate well, bring a simple snack for afterward, and plan to take the rest of the treatment day off whenever possible.
You may also be asked to avoid certain substances on treatment day unless your prescriber gives different instructions. Do not abruptly stop prescribed medications without discussing it with your provider first.
What to bring
Comfortable clothing and layers
A water bottle
A journal or notebook
An eye mask
A soft blanket
A small comfort object, such as a stone, stuffed animal, crystal, or grounding item
A light snack for after treatment
Most importantly: arrange transportation. You cannot drive on a ketamine treatment day. Plan for a responsible adult to take you home and give yourself space to return gently to baseline.
Preparation is not about controlling the experience. It is about creating enough safety that you can stay open, supported, and curious.