Chaperone Tips
Thank you for helping to support such a healing moment by being a chaperone for this Ketamine session.
It is important to read the following guidelines to ensure a safe and effective process.
Discuss touch and whether they may need you to let them know you are there if they need support. (i.e. touch on the shoulder, hold hand, etc.). If touch is discussed and it is requested, have a conversation when or how this will occur? (i.e. by request, if they appear in distress, etc.)
Double check playlist is commercial free and their phone is on Do Not Disturb so no alerts, texts, or phone calls interrupt their session.
Put a Do Not Disturb sign on the door to prevent any interruptions from deliveries or visitors.
Secure all pets for the entire session including during intake of medicine to help create a peaceful and focused environment.
Keep the environment quiet and peaceful by lowering the volume from your own media viewing while you wait
Be mindful of the timer and ensure you are able to hear any communication from friend
Encourage the client to use the bathroom before and provide assistance to the bathroom post-dosing as they will be sedated and unsteady on their feet
Before Journey Tips
You will be the designated driver after the ketamine session due to the sedative nature of the medication and its effects will linger for several hours after the dosing occurs.
Keep therapist's contact info handy to communicate any questions and inform of start/stop of session.
You will be responsible for setting the 12 minute timer for each dosing tablet which could happen 1-3 times during this session.
Keep a notebook to record vitals of blood pressure, heart rate, time each dose is taken, and beginning and ending time of journey.
Ketamine will provide for a dreamlike state and the memory of the experience will lessen as time passes.
Discuss whether your friend would like you to make notes of anything they share immediately after the session. However, your presence is one of a gentle listener who is “holding space.” Please allow for peace and tranquility as they are returning from their insightful journey.
Dosing Session Tips
You may quietly check in on your friend periodically, but please avoid disturbing their journey as the process is mostly internal. If predetermined touch is needed you may do so if emotional overwhelm is asking for you to help contain and create support.
If your friend is experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. You may also contact the therapist if you notice anything of concern during the session.
Prepare water or drink and light snack to provide for friend after journey is over.
If your friend feels the need to use the bathroom, please provide assistance as they walk and stay close by for safety as they will be unsteady on their feet following the session.
It is not recommended to engage in intense conversations post-treatment or ask too many questions about their experience unless they want to share. It is important for them to make meaning of their insight on their own time and in their own way without external influence.
Remain with your friend until they feel fully safe, secure, and present and ensure they do not drive for the remainder of the day.
