While two-thirds of people with depression respond adequately to traditional antidepressant therapies, one-third do not. When depressive symptoms do not respond appropriately to two or more separate antidepressants, this is known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This type of depression can be very difficult to treat and has limited therapeutic options. Fortunately, approximately 75% of people with TRD respond well to ketamine treatment!

Bipolar disorder is when major depression is associated with either manic or hypomanic episodes. These episodes are typically characterized by an extremely positive mood, rapid speech, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, irrational thinking and risky behaviors. While ketamine is not able to treat the manic/hypomanic episodes, it can significantly reduce the depressive phases associated with bipolar disorder.

Approximately 70-75% of people with depression respond positively to ketamine therapy. Many people begin feeling the beneficial effects of ketamine within 2-24 hours following treatment. For some people, however, it may take four treatments before they begin to feel any improvements, while others may not respond until the sixth treatment. Every person is unique. The only way to know if ketamine will work for you is to try it out for yourself.

Every person responds to medical treatments differently. Many people experience a sudden relief of their depressive symptoms, including any desire to commit suicide (if present). Others may notice more subtle improvements. They may realize that they have more energy than they previously did. They may also feel motivated to do things that they haven’t had the desire or energy to do for months or even years. While most patients say that their depression doesn’t completely go away, they do say that it becomes much more manageable. They are able to work through issues that they weren’t able to in the past. They can think about their problems more objectively and come to solutions more easily. Although ketamine might not be the entire solution, it may be the missing component needed to finally begin your individual journey through the healing process.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

We understand your desire to not feel down at times. It is important to remember, however, that ups and downs in life are normal. Ketamine is a medical treatment and should only be used when medically necessary. For that reason, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist to see if ketamine treatment is right for you.

If you feel that you have depression, we recommend that you speak with your primary care provider about your feelings and begin treatment, if necessary. On average, people suffer from depression for 10 years before being properly diagnosed. It’s important to seek treatment sooner rather than later if you feel that depression is impairing your quality of life.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. As a result of this “out of body experience”, many people state that this is the time that they are able to see their situation from an objective point of view. They are able to work through dilemmas without all of the associated grief and pain that accompany them. People with severe depression can begin to see what life can be like without the heavy weight that depression brings. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relaxed.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Although IV ketamine is not yet FDA-approved, the intranasal form of ketamine (Spravato) is. As a result, many insurance companies are now covering the cost of Spravato treatment for those suffering from Treatment-Resistant Depression.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

We do! Below are the types of counseling services that we offer our patients. They are performed by members of Health Psychology Associates, a well-respected group of behavioral health specialists located here in Reno.

1. 1) Private counseling sessions: Studies have shown that ketamine treatments can be more effective if they are given in conjunction with individual counseling sessions. The reason for this is because a trained therapist can help you to appropriately process the thoughts and emotions that you may experience during your ketamine treatments.

   *These sessions are performed either via telehealth or in-person at HPA's office. We will provide you with a referral to their office and you can schedule your sessions directly with them.*

2. 2) Counseling while receiving ketamine: Ketamine has the powerful ability to let your mind see certain things/events more objectively. It can allow you to discuss topics and process them where maybe you haven't been able to in the past. Many people have benefited from this type of therapy experience.

   *This counseling session is usually performed remotely and displayed on a screen next to your recliner in one of our private ketamine treatment rooms. If you have a therapist that you have already been seeing and feel comfortable with, you are more than welcome to use them instead.*

3. 3) Group therapy sessions: You may find that you have difficulty explaining what ketamine treatments are like to your friends and loved ones due to the unique experience that it creates. As it is with any support group, being able to talk about your experiences with someone that has had a similar experience can be quite refreshing. Our group therapy sessions are conducted in-person at our clinic and are directed by a trained therapist to ensure that you have the best therapeutic outcomes possible.

These optional counseling sessions are strongly encouraged and covered by your insurance plan whenever possible.

The first step to receiving ketamine treatment is to be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you currently see a psychiatrist, you can speak with them about ketamine/Spravato treatment to see if they believe that it’s the right treatment for you. If so, please ask them to send us a referral.

If you do not see a psychiatrist, you can either find one on your own and have them send us a referral or you may contact us to set up an appointment with our in-house psychiatrist, Dr. Faraaz Merchant.

Once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, we’ll set up your initial consultation with our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He’ll do a medical evaluation to make sure that there aren’t any medical reasons why you couldn’t receive ketamine. At that same appointment, we’ll also sit down with you and go over what treatment is, what to expect and answer any questions that you may have. At the end of that visit, we’ll set up your first treatment to begin your own ketamine journey!

Please note: If you are going to be receiving Spravato, we’ll need to request prior approval from your insurance to cover the treatment. Once that’s approved, we’ll request the medication to be sent to us from a specialty pharmacy. This entire process generally takes about 2-3 weeks. Once we have your medication, we can then begin your treatments.

If you have any questions at any time, please feel free to reach out to our clinic. We’d love to hear from you!

As mentioned, every person responds to medical treatments differently. Many people experience a sudden relief of their PTSD symptoms, including any desire to commit suicide (if present). Others may notice more subtle improvements. They may realize that they no longer look to see where all of the exits are in every room that they enter or don’t jump every time they hear a loud crash. While most people do have a significant reduction in their PTSD symptoms, most say that they don’t completely go away. They do, however, generally become much more manageable. They are able to see the traumatic event objectively, without all of the pain and fear usually associated with it. Although ketamine might not be the entire solution, it may be the missing component needed to finally begin your individual journey through the healing process.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. As a result of this “out of body experience”, many people state that this is the time that they are able to see their situation from an objective point of view. They are able to work through dilemmas without all of the associated grief and pain that accompany them. People with severe PTSD can begin to see what life can be like without the heavy weight that PTSD brings. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relaxed.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

Spravato is FDA-approved but only for the management of treatment-resistant depression. As such, insurance companies only cover the cost of treatment when used for that purpose. IV ketamine is still the preferred method of administration for the treatment of PTSD.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

We do! Below are the types of counseling services that we offer our patients. They are performed by members of Health Psychology Associates, a well-respected group of behavioral health specialists located here in Reno.

1. 1) Private counseling sessions: Studies have shown that ketamine treatments can be more effective if they are given in conjunction with individual counseling sessions. The reason for this is because a trained therapist can help you to appropriately process the thoughts and emotions that you may experience during your ketamine treatments.

   *These sessions are performed either via telehealth or in-person at HPA's office. We will provide you with a referral to their office and you can schedule your sessions directly with them.*

2. 2) Counseling while receiving ketamine: Ketamine has the powerful ability to let your mind see certain things/events more objectively. It can allow you to discuss topics and process them where maybe you haven't been able to in the past. Many people have benefited from this type of therapy experience.

   *This counseling session is usually performed remotely and displayed on a screen next to your recliner in one of our private ketamine treatment rooms. If you have a therapist that you have already been seeing and feel comfortable with, you are more than welcome to use them instead.*

3. 3) Group therapy sessions: You may find that you have difficulty explaining what ketamine treatments are like to your friends and loved ones due to the unique experience that it creates. As it is with any support group, being able to talk about your experiences with someone that has had a similar experience can be quite refreshing. Our group therapy sessions are conducted in-person at our clinic and are directed by a trained therapist to ensure that you have the best therapeutic outcomes possible.

These optional counseling sessions are strongly encouraged and covered by your insurance plan whenever possible.

The first step to receiving ketamine treatment is to be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you currently see a psychiatrist, you can speak with them about ketamine/Spravato treatment to see if they believe that it’s the right treatment for you. If so, please ask them to send us a referral.

If you do not see a psychiatrist, you can either find one on your own and have them send us a referral or you may contact us to set up an appointment with our in-house psychiatrist, Dr. Faraaz Merchant.

Once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, we’ll set up your initial consultation with our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He’ll do a medical evaluation to make sure that there aren’t any medical reasons why you couldn’t receive ketamine. At that same appointment, we’ll also sit down with you and go over what treatment is, what to expect and answer any questions that you may have. At the end of that visit, we’ll set up your first treatment to begin your own ketamine journey!

Please note: If you are going to be receiving Spravato, we’ll need to request prior approval from your insurance to cover the treatment. Once that’s approved, we’ll request the medication to be sent to us from a specialty pharmacy. This entire process generally takes about 2-3 weeks. Once we have your medication, we can then begin your treatments.

If you have any questions at any time, please feel free to reach out to our clinic. We’d love to hear from you!

As mentioned, every person responds to medical treatments differently. Many people experience a sudden relief of their anxiety symptoms, including any desire to commit suicide (if present). Others may notice more subtle improvements. They may realize that they are not as irritable as they used to be or that their focus is better than it has been in a long time. While most people say that their anxiety doesn’t completely go away, they do say that it becomes much more manageable. Although ketamine might not be the entire solution, it may be the missing component needed to finally begin your individual journey through the healing process.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. As a result of this “out of body experience”, many people state that this is the time that they are able to see their situation from an objective point of view. They are able to work through dilemmas without all of the associated grief and pain that accompany them. People with severe anxiety can begin to see what life can be like without the heavy weight that anxiety brings. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relaxed.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

Spravato is FDA-approved but only for the management of treatment-resistant depression. As such, insurance companies only cover the cost of treatment when used for that purpose. IV ketamine is still the preferred method of administration for the treatment of anxiety disorders.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

We do! Below are the types of counseling services that we offer our patients. They are performed by members of Health Psychology Associates, a well-respected group of behavioral health specialists located here in Reno.

1. 1) Private counseling sessions: Studies have shown that ketamine treatments can be more effective if they are given in conjunction with individual counseling sessions. The reason for this is because a trained therapist can help you to appropriately process the thoughts and emotions that you may experience during your ketamine treatments.

   *These sessions are performed either via telehealth or in-person at HPA's office. We will provide you with a referral to their office and you can schedule your sessions directly with them.*

2. 2) Counseling while receiving ketamine: Ketamine has the powerful ability to let your mind see certain things/events more objectively. It can allow you to discuss topics and process them where maybe you haven't been able to in the past. Many people have benefited from this type of therapy experience.

   *This counseling session is usually performed remotely and displayed on a screen next to your recliner in one of our private ketamine treatment rooms. If you have a therapist that you have already been seeing and feel comfortable with, you are more than welcome to use them instead.*

3. 3) Group therapy sessions: You may find that you have difficulty explaining what ketamine treatments are like to your friends and loved ones due to the unique experience that it creates. As it is with any support group, being able to talk about your experiences with someone that has had a similar experience can be quite refreshing. Our group therapy sessions are conducted in-person at our clinic and are directed by a trained therapist to ensure that you have the best therapeutic outcomes possible.

These optional counseling sessions are strongly encouraged and covered by your insurance plan whenever possible.

The first step to receiving ketamine treatment is to be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you currently see a psychiatrist, you can speak with them about ketamine/Spravato treatment to see if they believe that it’s the right treatment for you. If so, please ask them to send us a referral.

If you do not see a psychiatrist, you can either find one on your own and have them send us a referral or you may contact us to set up an appointment with our in-house psychiatrist, Dr. Faraaz Merchant.

Once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, we’ll set up your initial consultation with our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He’ll do a medical evaluation to make sure that there aren’t any medical reasons why you couldn’t receive ketamine. At that same appointment, we’ll also sit down with you and go over what treatment is, what to expect and answer any questions that you may have. At the end of that visit, we’ll set up your first treatment to begin your own ketamine journey!

Please note: If you are going to be receiving Spravato, we’ll need to request prior approval from your insurance to cover the treatment. Once that’s approved, we’ll request the medication to be sent to us from a specialty pharmacy. This entire process generally takes about 2-3 weeks. Once we have your medication, we can then begin your treatments.

If you have any questions at any time, please feel free to reach out to our clinic. We’d love to hear from you!

As mentioned, every person responds to medical treatments differently. Many people experience a sudden relief of their OCD symptoms, including any desire to commit suicide (if present). Others may notice more subtle improvements. They may realize that they no longer experience their obsessions as frequently as they used to or that they don’t last as long. They may also not feel as compelled to perform their compulsions like they have in the past.

While many people do have a significant reduction in their OCD symptoms, most say that they don’t completely go away. They usually, however, become much more manageable. Although ketamine might not be the entire solution, it may be the missing component needed to finally begin your individual journey through the healing process.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. As a result of this “out of body experience”, many people state that this is the time that they are able to see their situation from an objective point of view. They are able to work through dilemmas without all of the associated grief and pain that accompany them. People with severe OCD can begin to see what life can be like without the heavy weight that OCD brings. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relaxed.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

Spravato is FDA-approved but only for the management of treatment-resistant depression. As such, insurance companies only cover the cost of treatment when used for that purpose. IV ketamine is still the preferred method of administration for the treatment of OCD.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

We do! Below are the types of counseling services that we offer our patients. They are performed by members of Health Psychology Associates, a well-respected group of behavioral health specialists located here in Reno.

1. 1) Private counseling sessions: Studies have shown that ketamine treatments can be more effective if they are given in conjunction with individual counseling sessions. The reason for this is because a trained therapist can help you to appropriately process the thoughts and emotions that you may experience during your ketamine treatments.

   *These sessions are performed either via telehealth or in-person at HPA's office. We will provide you with a referral to their office and you can schedule your sessions directly with them.*

2. 2) Counseling while receiving ketamine: Ketamine has the powerful ability to let your mind see certain things/events more objectively. It can allow you to discuss topics and process them where maybe you haven't been able to in the past. Many people have benefited from this type of therapy experience.

   *This counseling session is usually performed remotely and displayed on a screen next to your recliner in one of our private ketamine treatment rooms. If you have a therapist that you have already been seeing and feel comfortable with, you are more than welcome to use them instead.*

3. 3) Group therapy sessions: You may find that you have difficulty explaining what ketamine treatments are like to your friends and loved ones due to the unique experience that it creates. As it is with any support group, being able to talk about your experiences with someone that has had a similar experience can be quite refreshing. Our group therapy sessions are conducted in-person at our clinic and are directed by a trained therapist to ensure that you have the best therapeutic outcomes possible.

These optional counseling sessions are strongly encouraged and covered by your insurance plan whenever possible.

The first step to receiving ketamine treatment is to be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you currently see a psychiatrist, you can speak with them about ketamine/Spravato treatment to see if they believe that it’s the right treatment for you. If so, please ask them to send us a referral.

If you do not see a psychiatrist, you can either find one on your own and have them send us a referral or you may contact us to set up an appointment with our in-house psychiatrist, Dr. Faraaz Merchant.

Once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, we’ll set up your initial consultation with our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He’ll do a medical evaluation to make sure that there aren’t any medical reasons why you couldn’t receive ketamine. At that same appointment, we’ll also sit down with you and go over what treatment is, what to expect and answer any questions that you may have. At the end of that visit, we’ll set up your first treatment to begin your own ketamine journey!

Please note: If you are going to be receiving Spravato, we’ll need to request prior approval from your insurance to cover the treatment. Once that’s approved, we’ll request the medication to be sent to us from a specialty pharmacy. This entire process generally takes about 2-3 weeks. Once we have your medication, we can then begin your treatments.

If you have any questions at any time, please feel free to reach out to our clinic. We’d love to hear from you!

Everyone responds differently to medical treatments. On average though, for those that respond to ketamine, pain relief is experienced by the end of the first two to three weeks of treatment (the induction phase – 4 to 6 treatments).

That is our goal! Since ketamine has the ability to increase our bodies’ sensitivity to opioids, many people find that they are able to reduce the number of narcotics that they require. Over the course of treatment, many people are able to slowly lower their dosage, while others are able to stop them completely. It is important to remember, however, that any reduction in your pain medication should be done in consultation with your prescribing provider. Never stop the use of narcotics abruptly on your own.

As mentioned previously, every person responds to medical treatments differently. It is possible to experience a sudden relief of your chronic nerve pain symptoms. It is more likely, however, that you will notice more subtle improvements. You may realize that you are able to move around without so many aches and pains. You may have more energy than you did previously. You may also be pain-free for the first time in years. While most patients say that their pain doesn’t completely go away, ketamine treatments usually make the pain much more manageable.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. This “out of body experience” is normal and will fade away once the infusion is turned off. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relax. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Excellent question! An estimated 30-50% of those suffering from chronic nerve pain also suffer from either anxiety and/or depression. This is because pain and mental health are closely related to each other. When we suffer from chronic nerve pain, our bodies are in a constant state of stress. This chronic stress can wreak havoc on our bodies, as well as our minds. Scientists have found that chronic stress can actually cause our neurons to malfunction. In turn, this can lead to many mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression. This phenomenon is known as a reduction in neuroplasticity explained here.

In addition, depression is a type of pain in its own right. Rather than causing physical pain, however, it causes deep mental and emotional anguish. As such, it is processed in the same areas of the brain that chronic nerve pain is. For that reason, the two frequently occur together and are able to intensify each other.

The great news is that ketamine is able to treat chronic nerve pain and many mental health disorders simultaneously! To learn more about how ketamine is able to treat these conditions, please click here.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

The first step is to call our clinic and set up your initial screening evaluation. You may also request an appointment online by clicking here. During your screening, we will discuss your medical and mental health conditions and determine whether ketamine is an appropriate treatment option for you. We will then walk you through the treatment process and answer any questions that you may have. We’ll also give you a tour of the facility so that you know what to expect on your first day of treatment. Once that is complete, we will set up an appointment for you to begin your own ketamine journey!

While two-thirds of people with depression respond adequately to traditional antidepressant therapies, one-third do not. When depressive symptoms do not respond appropriately to two or more separate antidepressants, this is known as treatment-resistant depression (TRD). This type of depression can be very difficult to treat and has limited therapeutic options. Fortunately, approximately 75% of people with TRD respond well to ketamine treatment!

Bipolar disorder is when major depression is associated with either manic or hypomanic episodes. These episodes are typically characterized by an extremely positive mood, rapid speech, racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, irrational thinking and risky behaviors. While ketamine is not able to treat the manic/hypomanic episodes, it can significantly reduce the depressive phases associated with bipolar disorder.

Approximately 70-75% of people with depression respond positively to ketamine therapy. Many people begin feeling the beneficial effects of ketamine within 2-24 hours following treatment. For some people, however, it may take four treatments before they begin to feel any improvements, while others may not respond until the sixth treatment. Every person is unique. The only way to know if ketamine will work for you is to try it out for yourself.

Every person responds to medical treatments differently. Many people experience a sudden relief of their depressive symptoms, including any desire to commit suicide (if present). Others may notice more subtle improvements. They may realize that they have more energy than they previously did. They may also feel motivated to do things that they haven’t had the desire or energy to do for months or even years. While most patients say that their depression doesn’t completely go away, they do say that it becomes much more manageable. They are able to work through issues that they weren’t able to in the past. They can think about their problems more objectively and come to solutions more easily. Although ketamine might not be the entire solution, it may be the missing component needed to finally begin your individual journey through the healing process.

Oh yes. According to PubMed, a medical database for journal articles, there have been 19,120 studies performed on ketamine as of October 2019. Of that number, 4,445 of them were related to mental health disorders and 3,385 were related to ketamine’s effect on pain.

We understand your desire to not feel down at times. It is important to remember, however, that ups and downs in life are normal. Ketamine is a medical treatment and should only be used when medically necessary. For that reason, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist to see if ketamine treatment is right for you.

If you feel that you have depression, we recommend that you speak with your primary care provider about your feelings and begin treatment, if necessary. On average, people suffer from depression for 10 years before being properly diagnosed. It’s important to seek treatment sooner rather than later if you feel that depression is impairing your quality of life.

Prior to beginning treatment, you will be evaluated by our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He will perform a medical assessment to determine whether you have any medical conditions that would prevent you from receiving ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist of your own, you may then visit with our in-house, board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Mechibelle Lynch. She will do a psychiatric evaluation to confirm your diagnosis and determine whether ketamine treatment is appropriate for you. Once that is complete, we will then schedule your initial ketamine treatment.

On your first day of treatment, we’ll begin by having you fill out a minimal amount of necessary paperwork. If you are receiving IV ketamine, we’ll insert a very small IV and then escort you into your own private ketamine room. You’ll have a seat in one of our very comfortable recliners and we’ll assess your vital signs. Once complete, we’ll slowly begin infusing the ketamine through your IV. If you are receiving intranasal ketamine, we’ll provide you with the Spravato cartridge and show you how to administer it yourself (it is very similar to a Flonase nasal spray). After spraying the mist up your nose, you may then lie back, settle down and begin to relax. We’ll dim the lights, turn on some relaxing music, grab you a soft blanket right out of the warmer and let the magic begin.

The first thing that you’ll most likely feel is an incredible sense of relaxation. This is a very comforting feeling. As the ketamine more fully kicks in, you may start to see colors or objects when you close your eyes. As your neurons begin to wake up, your mind may become very active. You may have a number of thoughts seamlessly passing through your mind. You will likely experience a very close connection with your inner self. These feelings can be profoundly touching and can help you understand your true worth as a human being. Many people describe these feelings as exquisitely spiritual and deeply moving.

Ketamine is an activator and can stir up feelings and emotions of all types. As a result, you may experience an array of feelings, such as sadness or melancholy. These are also part of the healing process. Every time that you receive ketamine your experience will be unique and will likely be influenced by the frame of mind that you are in when the treatment begins. As a result, we suggest that you try and minimize your stress levels as much as possible on the days of your treatments. We also recommend that you use each treatment to work on things that you may be struggling with at the time. Use each treatment as a building block toward improved mental health. This will become easier and easier with each treatment that you receive. It is difficult to describe the beauty of a ketamine experience in mere words and is something that you truly have to experience in order to fully appreciate.

As the ketamine begins to wear off and you float back to reality, you may want to jot down a few things about your session on the note cards that we provide. You may want to draw some of the images that they saw or describe the comforting feelings that you felt during the treatment. Taking notes is a way to preserve that experience so that you can reflect on it later. You may also want to take this note card with you to your next psychotherapy session and discuss any issues that may have been uncovered. The note card can be a wonderful way to chronicle your own personal ketamine journey, allowing you to look back at yourself and see just how far you’ve come.

Every person’s response to ketamine will be unique but many people experience a light, floating feeling. Others may feel a slight disconnection from their bodies and the world. As a result of this “out of body experience”, many people state that this is the time that they are able to see their situation from an objective point of view. They are able to work through dilemmas without all of the associated grief and pain that accompany them. People with severe depression can begin to see what life can be like without the heavy weight that depression brings. Those with suicidal thoughts may experience them simply disappearing. Colors and sounds may become more intense and your sense of hearing may be heightened. Since ketamine activates nerves inside your brain, you may feel that your mind is very active while your body is nice and relaxed.

It is also possible to experience some unpleasant feelings, such as melancholy or sadness. Not everyone experiences this but if you do, know that it is normal and usually improves over the next few treatments. If you experience these feelings and they become too intense, please let us know. We can adjust your treatment regimen in order to minimize them as much as possible.

Yes! Many people desire to have someone that they know and love by their side, especially during the first couple of treatments. This is something that we encourage, since our goal is to make you as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

Here at Radiance Ketamine Clinic, we are proud to offer you your own private room for your unique ketamine experience.

In preparation for your treatment, we ask that you not have anything to eat for at least 4 hours prior to your treatment. You may have clear liquids (i.e. water, soda, black coffee, tea, pulpless juice, etc.) up until 2 hours prior to your session.

There are no restrictions on what you can eat or drink after your treatment is complete.

Wonderful question! Ketamine treatments are used in conjunction with your current medication regimen. For many people, ketamine improves the effectiveness of the medications that they are already taking. As a result, many find that they are able to slowly reduce their dosages and eventually stop many of their medications once they begin ketamine treatment. It is important to remember, however, that all medication changes must be made in collaboration with the provider that is prescribing the medication.

Never stop taking a medication on your own without talking with your prescribing provider first.

Yes. It is important to know that ketamine treatment does not replace any therapies you are currently taking. Your doctor will continue to see you as they do now and we will collaborate with them to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going. Receiving ketamine treatment is similar to going to a physical therapist for specialized treatment. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist to help you to recover from an injury, for example, but they do not replace your doctor nor the treatments that your doctor has prescribed. The goal of ketamine treatment is to improve the effectiveness of the medication and other therapies that you are currently receiving.

In order to receive ketamine for a mental health condition, we do require that you be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you have one of your own, please have them send us a referral for ketamine treatment. If you do not have a psychiatrist or see a mental health provider that is not a psychiatrist, you are welcome to see our in-house psychiatrist to determine if ketamine is right for you.

We also ask that you have your primary care provider send us your most recent office visit notes, including any lab results. We will collaborate with your providers to let them know how your ketamine treatments are going, so as to provide you with the best care possible.

For your own safety, we require that a responsible adult drive you home after your treatment.

Of course! You are welcome to stop by any time. We will also provide you with a tour of our clinic during your initial consultation.

Not at all. Many drugs today are used off-label. This simply means that the reason for taking the drug is different than that approved by the FDA. New uses for drugs are discovered all the time. Some common examples of off-label uses are: propranolol for performance anxiety, prazosin for nightmares, clonidine for ADHD, colchicine for psoriasis, naltrexone for multiple sclerosis and Seroquel for insomnia.

Ketamine is an FDA-approved medication and has been since 1970. It has a long history of safe use in the field of medicine. Ketamine treatments have been given off-label in outpatient settings across the country for many years. They have helped numerous people suffering from mental health disorders and chronic nerve pain to take control of their lives once again.

Although IV ketamine is not yet FDA-approved, the intranasal form of ketamine (Spravato) is. As a result, many insurance companies are now covering the cost of Spravato treatment for those suffering from Treatment-Resistant Depression.

Great question! Many people are confused about the differences between these two medications. Ketamine is made up of two separate but very similar components, R-ketamine and S-ketamine. IV ketamine is a mixture of the two components, Spravato is strictly S-ketamine (esketamine). IV ketamine is administered through an IV and Spravato is given as an intranasal spray. Both forms of ketamine are safe and effective. Here at RADIANCE KETAMINE CLINIC we are proud to offer both forms of ketamine and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about them at your initial consultation.

It is indeed. The reason for that is that it is commonly used in veterinary medicine to sedate animals of all sizes, including horses.

Many people wonder if ketamine is a new drug because they have never heard about it until now. The following gives a brief history of ketamine and its use in the field of medicine:

• 1956: Phencyclidine (ketamine’s parent drug) was first synthesized at the Parke Davis laboratory in Detroit, Michigan.


• 1962: Calvin Stevens, PhD, was experimenting with derivatives of phencyclidine (PCP) and discovered ketamine (CI-581). He found it to be a very safe drug with excellent anesthetic properties.


• 1970: Ketamine was FDA-approved as an anesthetic agent for humans. It also became widely used in the field of veterinary anesthesia, and thus received the nickname “horse tranquilizer”.


• 1970-1975: Ketamine was used extensively during the Vietnam War for battlefield surgeries due to its minimal side effects.


• 1985: Ketamine was placed on the World Health Organization’s list of Essential Medicines. This is a list of medications that are considered so essential that every country in the world should have them readily available for the benefit of their citizens.


• 1990s: Research into the use of ketamine as an antidepressant began at Yale University.


• 2019: A form of ketamine called Spravato (esketamine) was approved by the FDA for the management of treatment-resistant depression.


• Current:   Ketamine continues to be a vital medication in modern-day anesthesia, as well as veterinary medicine. Its use as an antidepressant continues to grow by the day as more and more people learn about its incredible benefits.

Ketamine is a very safe drug when given by trained medical professionals. It is important to remember, however, that it is still a dissociative sedative. For that reason, it is important that it only be administered in a setting where you can be properly monitored and cared for. The vast majority of ketamine experts do not recommend oral ketamine at this time and we support that consensus. This may change in the future, however, as scientists are continually developing new versions of drugs to improve both our health and well-being.

Ketamine mainly targets the NMDA receptor. This receptor is involved in a number of different processes throughout the body. Therefore, when it isn’t functioning properly, it can result in a variety of different ailments. By selectively targeting the cause of these conditions, ketamine is able to effectively treat them, restoring both physical and mental health to our bodies.

We do! Below are the types of counseling services that we offer our patients. They are performed by members of Health Psychology Associates, a well-respected group of behavioral health specialists located here in Reno.

1. 1) Private counseling sessions: Studies have shown that ketamine treatments can be more effective if they are given in conjunction with individual counseling sessions. The reason for this is because a trained therapist can help you to appropriately process the thoughts and emotions that you may experience during your ketamine treatments.

   *These sessions are performed either via telehealth or in-person at HPA's office. We will provide you with a referral to their office and you can schedule your sessions directly with them.*

2. 2) Counseling while receiving ketamine: Ketamine has the powerful ability to let your mind see certain things/events more objectively. It can allow you to discuss topics and process them where maybe you haven't been able to in the past. Many people have benefited from this type of therapy experience.

   *This counseling session is usually performed remotely and displayed on a screen next to your recliner in one of our private ketamine treatment rooms. If you have a therapist that you have already been seeing and feel comfortable with, you are more than welcome to use them instead.*

3. 3) Group therapy sessions: You may find that you have difficulty explaining what ketamine treatments are like to your friends and loved ones due to the unique experience that it creates. As it is with any support group, being able to talk about your experiences with someone that has had a similar experience can be quite refreshing. Our group therapy sessions are conducted in-person at our clinic and are directed by a trained therapist to ensure that you have the best therapeutic outcomes possible.

These optional counseling sessions are strongly encouraged and covered by your insurance plan whenever possible.

The first step to receiving ketamine treatment is to be evaluated by a psychiatrist. If you currently see a psychiatrist, you can speak with them about ketamine/Spravato treatment to see if they believe that it’s the right treatment for you. If so, please ask them to send us a referral.

If you do not see a psychiatrist, you can either find one on your own and have them send us a referral or you may contact us to set up an appointment with our in-house psychiatrist, Dr. Faraaz Merchant.

Once the psychiatric evaluation is complete, we’ll set up your initial consultation with our medical director, Dr. Francisco Dofeliz. He’ll do a medical evaluation to make sure that there aren’t any medical reasons why you couldn’t receive ketamine. At that same appointment, we’ll also sit down with you and go over what treatment is, what to expect and answer any questions that you may have. At the end of that visit, we’ll set up your first treatment to begin your own ketamine journey!

Please note: If you are going to be receiving Spravato, we’ll need to request prior approval from your insurance to cover the treatment. Once that’s approved, we’ll request the medication to be sent to us from a specialty pharmacy. This entire process generally takes about 2-3 weeks. Once we have your medication, we can then begin your treatments.

If you have any questions at any time, please feel free to reach out to our clinic. We’d love to hear from you!