Ketamine Treatment for Depression
A Breakthrough Approach to Healing. You don't have to face depression alone. At Iowa Ketamine Clinic, Iowa's largest specialized ketamine treatment center, our compassionate team is ready to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and renewal. We understand how exhausting it can be when traditional treatments haven't provided the relief you deserve.
Let's talk about how we can help you find a new path forward.
What is Ketamine Therapy?
Let's explore how ketamine works
Ketamine therapy represents a significant breakthrough in depression treatment, especially for those who haven't responded well to conventional approaches. Unlike traditional antidepressants that can take weeks or months to work, ketamine often provides rapid relief of symptoms—sometimes within hours or days of treatment.
At Iowa Ketamine Clinic, we offer two distinct forms of ketamine therapy:
IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Intravenous ketamine delivers the medication directly into your bloodstream, allowing for precise dosing and rapid absorption. This method has been studied extensively for treatment-resistant depression with remarkable results. During an IV ketamine session, you'll relax in a comfortable treatment room while the medication is administered over 40-60 minutes by our experienced medical team.
Spravato® (Esketamine) Nasal Spray
Spravato® is an FDA-approved nasal spray form of esketamine, specifically developed for treatment-resistant depression. This innovative treatment is administered in our office under medical supervision. Spravato® works through the same biological mechanisms as IV ketamine but in a different delivery form that is covered by many insurance plans.
Both treatments work differently than standard antidepressants by targeting the brain's glutamate system rather than serotonin, offering a new avenue of relief for many patients who haven't responded to traditional medications.
The Iowa Ketamine Clinic Difference
From the moment you walk through our doors, you're family
At Iowa Ketamine Clinic, we understand that seeking treatment for depression takes courage. That's why we've created a warm, welcoming environment where healing can happen naturally. Our state-of-the-art facility combines clinical excellence with the comforts of home—comfortable seating and calming décor.
We believe in designing your treatment plan together. After evaluating your specific needs, our medical team will recommend either IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy or Spravato® Nasal Spray treatment—or in some cases, a combination approach. Your input matters, and your experiences guide our approach. Every treatment protocol is personalized based on your specific needs, history, goals, and insurance coverage.
Our comprehensive care extends beyond just ketamine infusions. We integrate complementary approaches and provide resources to support your overall mental wellness journey.
We're with you every step of the way—from your first phone call through your treatment series and beyond. Our team regularly checks in with patients between sessions, and we're always just a phone call away if you have questions or concerns.
Meet Our Caring Team
Iowa's Most Experienced Ketamine Specialists
Courtney Mitten
Alyssa Coughennower
Lacey Cheeseman
Molly St Clair
Your Ketamine Treatment Journey
Here's what your experience will look like
Getting Started: Referral and Consultation
Your journey begins with a referral from your current mental healthcare provider. Once we receive your referral, we'll schedule a friendly consultation to discuss your experiences with depression, previous treatments, and answer your questions. During this consultation, our medical team will help determine whether IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy or Spravato® Nasal Spray is the more appropriate option for you, considering both clinical factors and insurance coverage. Throughout your treatment, we maintain communication with your referring provider to ensure coordinated care.
Your Treatment Day
On treatment days, you'll relax in a private, comfortable room with soft lighting. The experience differs slightly depending on your treatment type:
- For IV Ketamine: A licensed medical professional will place an IV line and stay with you throughout the entire 40-60 minute infusion. The dosage is precisely calibrated for your needs.
- For Spravato®: You'll self-administer the nasal spray under our supervision, and then relax in our treatment room for the required 2-hour monitoring period.
For both treatments, many patients describe the experience as peaceful and introspective. After treatment, you'll rest in our recovery area until you feel ready to go home (you'll need someone to drive you).
Your Treatment Schedule
Treatment schedules vary based on which form of ketamine therapy you receive:
- IV Ketamine: Most patients begin with a series of 4-6 infusions over 2-3 weeks, followed by maintenance treatments as needed.
- Spravato®: Treatment typically begins with twice-weekly sessions for the first month, followed by weekly sessions for the second month, and then individualized maintenance treatment.
We'll develop your specific schedule together based on your response and needs, keeping your referring provider informed of your progress.
Stories of Renewal and Hope
While everyone's experience with ketamine treatment is unique, many of our patients have shared their stories of transformation. Here are a few of their experiences (shared anonymously with permission):
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
"What surprised me most was waking up the day after my second treatment and actually wanting to get out of bed. Anyone who's dealt with severe depression knows what a miracle that simple desire can be."
Frequently Asked Questions About Ketamine for Depression
Don't see your question? Just give us a call at (515) 401-4774. We're happy to discuss any concerns or questions you might have.
Ready to Take the First Step?
We'd love to hear from you
Taking the first step is often the hardest part—and we honor the courage it takes to reach out. When you're ready, we're here to help guide you through the referral process and answer any questions you might have about both IV ketamine therapy and Spravato® treatment options.
Speak with your current mental healthcare provider about ketamine therapy
Request a referral to Iowa Ketamine Clinic
Once we receive your referral, we'll contact you to schedule your consultation
If your provider has questions about our treatment protocols or referral process for either therapy option, we're happy to speak with them directly.