Red Flags When Evaluating a Ketamine Clinic

Marketing red flags

• "Miracle", "cure", or "instant" language for depression, anxiety, or PTSD.
• Promised response rates well above what published literature supports.
• Patient testimonials presented as expected outcomes.
• Heavy social-media presence with little clinical content.

Screening red flags

• No detailed psychiatric or medical history before scheduling.
• No discussion of contraindications.
• No baseline vitals, EKG, or basic labs when indicated.
• Willingness to treat anyone who can pay.

Protocol red flags

• Dosing in an unsupervised setting without appropriate monitoring.
• No integration component and no plan after the initial course.
• Routine prescribing of high oral doses without justification.
• One-size-fits-all protocols regardless of diagnosis or response.

Business red flags

• Pressure to prepay for long courses before any dosing.
• Vague or shifting pricing.
• Aggressive financing offers as the centerpiece of intake.
• Discouragement from getting a second opinion.

Coordination red flags

• Reluctance to communicate with your existing therapist or psychiatrist.
• No medical director on site or named publicly.
• No clear process for emergencies or referrals.