Ketamine Infusion Therapy
in Fairfax, VA
IV ketamine therapy is one of the most effective interventions available for patients who have not responded to antidepressants, therapy, or other treatments. At Mosaic Infusions & Wellness, we offer this evidence-based treatment with personalized protocols, licensed provider oversight, and transparent flat-rate pricing.
What Is IV Ketamine Therapy?
Ketamine is an FDA-approved anesthetic that, at sub-anesthetic doses, has shown remarkable effectiveness for treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, and suicidal ideation, often in patients for whom every other treatment has fallen short.
Unlike traditional antidepressants that work on serotonin or dopamine, ketamine targets the glutamate system, the brain's primary excitatory neurotransmitter network. This distinct mechanism explains why it can help patients who haven't responded to SSRIs, SNRIs, or other medications.
Clinical research suggests ketamine may promote neuroplasticity, the brain's capacity to form new neural connections, effectively creating new pathways away from the entrenched patterns underlying depression and trauma. This is thought to be one reason relief can begin within hours of a first infusion (Berman et al., 2000; Zarate et al., 2006).
Clinical evidence suggests ketamine may help with these conditions. Individual results vary. Consult a licensed provider to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
IV Ketamine vs. Other Delivery Methods
- 100% bioavailability, full dose reaches the bloodstream
- Real-time dosing control throughout the session
- Fastest onset; infusion rate adjusted as needed
- No prior authorization; treatment begins when you're ready
- FDA-approved for MDD and TRD (2019)
- Lower bioavailability than IV route
- Insurance may cover with prior authorization
- Must be administered in a certified provider's office
Conditions Ketamine Therapy May Address
Ketamine is typically considered after one or more standard treatments have not provided adequate relief, not as a first-line option.
Not sure if ketamine is appropriate for your diagnosis? Book a free consultation and our providers will review your history and give you an honest assessment.
What to Expect During a Session
Knowing what to expect is part of feeling safe. Here is what a typical infusion at Mosaic looks like from start to finish.
Preparation
- Fast for 4–6 hours before your session
- Arrange a ride home — a trusted adult, or a rideshare
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours prior
- Complete any intake paperwork in advance
The Infusion
- 45–60 minutes in a private, quiet room
- Nurse monitors blood pressure, heart rate, pulse oximetry, respiratory rate, and heart tracing throughout; provider on site
- Mild dissociation or altered perception is normal
- Eye mask and headphones available if preferred
- You can reach your nurse at any time during the session
Recovery
- ~30-minute monitored recovery before discharge
- Do not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours
- Avoid major decisions or alcohol that day
- Many patients notice relief within hours to days
How We Keep Infusions Safe
"Is this safe?" is the question we hear most, and it deserves a real answer rather than reassurance. Here is the actual structure around every infusion at our Fairfax clinic.
A nurse supervises every infusion
A nurse supervises your infusion from start to finish, and a licensed provider is on site for the entire session. Your treatment room stays private so you can settle into the experience without someone seated beside you, but you are monitored throughout and staff are immediately available. The infusion can be slowed or stopped at any point if you need it.
Continuous vital-sign monitoring
Ketamine can transiently raise blood pressure and heart rate, so five vitals are tracked continuously rather than checked once at the start: blood pressure, heart rate, pulse oximetry, respiratory rate, and a continuous heart tracing. That is more than a periodic blood-pressure cuff, and it is the reason infusions belong in a clinical setting with trained staff on hand rather than at home.
Screening before your first infusion
Ketamine is not appropriate for everyone. Before your first session a provider reviews your medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and cardiovascular health to confirm there are no contraindications. If we do not think you are a safe candidate, we will tell you directly.
Monitored recovery before you leave
The session does not end when the IV comes out. You rest in a monitored recovery period of roughly 30 minutes until the acute effects have settled and your nurse is satisfied you are ready to be discharged to your ride home.
What Makes Our Fairfax Clinic Different
There are other places to get an infusion in Northern Virginia. These are the concrete differences in how we operate.
Our prices are published, not quoted
$400 per infusion, $450 when a provider visit is included. You do not have to call, sit through a sales consultation, or give us your phone number to find out what treatment costs. It is on the pricing page.
Protocols are individualized
Your dose and schedule are set by a provider based on your history and how you actually respond, then adjusted as you go. That is why the first session and any dose change include a provider visit rather than being handled as a standing order.
We work alongside your existing care team
Ketamine works best as part of a broader plan, not as a replacement for it. We coordinate with your prescriber and therapist, and partner with licensed therapists for Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy when patients want integrated psychological support.
You can track progress between sessions
Our Patient Journal lets you log mood, track medications, and complete standardized assessments like the PHQ-9 and PCL-5, so decisions about your protocol rest on recorded data rather than recall at your next visit.
No Hidden Fees. Ever.
We publish our full pricing openly because we believe you deserve to know exactly what you'll pay before you ever pick up the phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
More questions? Contact us or call (703) 261-4493. We're happy to talk through your specific situation before you commit to anything.
Full FAQ →Is ketamine therapy safe?
IV ketamine has been used safely as an FDA-approved anesthetic since 1970. At the sub-anesthetic doses used in psychiatric treatment, it is well-tolerated by most patients. At Mosaic, a nurse supervises and monitors your vitals throughout every infusion, with a licensed provider on site for the entire session. We screen all patients in advance to confirm there are no contraindications.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients begin with an induction series of 4–6 infusions over 2–3 weeks. Some notice meaningful improvement after just 1–2 sessions; others benefit from the full series. Following the induction, maintenance infusions, typically monthly or as needed, may be recommended to sustain results. Your protocol is individualized based on your response.
Does insurance cover ketamine infusions?
Most health insurance plans do not cover IV ketamine for psychiatric conditions, as it remains off-label for this use. We are upfront about costs: $400 per infusion, $450 when a provider visit is included. Some patients use HSA or FSA funds. We are happy to provide itemized receipts you may submit to your insurer.
What does a ketamine infusion feel like?
During the 45–60 minute infusion you may experience mild dissociation, altered sensory perception, or a dreamlike floating sensation. Some patients find the experience deeply relaxing; others find it unusual but manageable. Your nurse supervises the session throughout and can adjust the infusion rate, with provider approval, if needed. Most patients rest comfortably with an eye mask and headphones.
Can I drive after a session?
No. Ketamine has dissociative effects that can persist for several hours after an infusion, so you cannot drive yourself home after any session — that is a firm requirement, not a recommendation. Who drives you is flexible. We prefer a trusted friend or family member, and a rideshare such as Uber or Lyft is also acceptable with a consent form you sign in advance. If you do not have anyone available, that does not rule you out — let us know and we will help you plan it.
How quickly might I notice results?
One of ketamine's most significant clinical advantages is speed. Many patients report noticeable mood improvement within hours to a few days of their first infusion, far faster than the 4–6 weeks typically required for antidepressants to take effect. Results vary by individual, but rapid response is one reason ketamine is particularly valuable in acute situations.
Am I a good candidate for ketamine therapy?
Ketamine is typically considered after one or more standard treatments, including medications, therapy, or both, have not provided adequate relief. Good candidates often have a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, OCD, or a related condition. The best way to determine eligibility is through our free consultation, where a provider reviews your history in detail.
Serving Fairfax & the Northern Virginia Area
Mosaic Infusions & Wellness is located in the Mosaic District of Fairfax, VA — conveniently accessible from Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Annandale, Rosslyn, Oakton, and the greater Washington, DC metro area. Free on-site parking and proximity to the Dunn Loring-Merrifield Metro make us an easy choice for patients across Northern Virginia. Local to Fairfax? See our Fairfax ketamine therapy page for directions, parking, and what a visit looks like.
Take the First Step
A free consultation is a no-obligation conversation with a licensed provider to determine whether ketamine therapy is right for your situation. No commitment required.
Mon – Fri 9am – 7pm · Sat 8am – 12pm · Call or text anytime