Ketamine Therapy in Midtown Manhattan

How Does Ketamine Work?

Ketamine works in the body by targeting key receptor sites in the brain to protect against excitotoxicity and restore balance in how information is processed. Research has revealed how ketamine's effects go beyond acting on glutamate receptors; it also influences areas tied to motivation, emotion, and behavior, including monoamine transporters and opioid receptors, allowing it to target a wider array of symptoms quickly. Those seeking help managing their mental health condition can rest assured that ketamine is a safe and effective option to explore.

Explore What’s Possible Beyond Traditional Treatment

You’ve tried to manage the pain, improve your mental health, or find a treatment that makes a marked difference. When progress has stalled, ketamine therapy may be another option worth exploring. Lisa Makrides, MD, PC offers personalized ketamine infusion in Midtown Manhattan, with attentive oversight and compassionate care. 

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Understanding How Ketamine Works in the Brain and Body

Ketamine works differently from many traditional treatments. By acting primarily on the brain’s NMDA receptor system, it can influence how pain signals are processed and the pathways involved in mood regulation, potentially benefiting carefully selected patients.

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How Ketamine Can Be Administered

Dr. Makrides selects the appropriate method and dosage based on the patient’s condition, health history, and individual treatment needs. 

Intravenous (IV) Ketamine

Administered via controlled infusion in a monitored medical setting. Allows precise titration and predictable onset. Commonly used for both chronic pain and mood-disorder protocols.

Intramuscular (IM) Ketamine

Delivered by injection into a large muscle under medical supervision. Predictable absorption without IV access. May be appropriate for selected patients based on clinical judgment.

Intranasal Ketamine

Administered as a nasal spray under medical guidance. Non-invasive option used in select mental-health protocols.

Oral / Sublingual Ketamine

Taken by mouth or absorbed under the tongue. Lower bioavailability and slower onset. Typically reserved for maintenance or carefully selected cases.

Conditions That May Benefit From Ketamine Therapy

Ketamine is typically considered after standard treatment options have been explored. Before recommending therapy, we review your medical history, previous treatment attempts, and individual circumstances to determine whether ketamine is an appropriate next step.

Pain Management Applications

Ketamine may be an option when symptoms continue despite traditional treatments, including for patients experiencing:

  • Chronic pain

    Ketamine may be incorporated into a broader pain management plan for select conditions involving altered pain processing or nerve-related pain. Patients with persistent symptoms can also learn more about our broader pain management options in Midtown Manhattan, including additional physician-led treatments. 

    • Neuropathic pain syndromes
    • Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
    • Chronic spine-related pain
    • Other chronic pain conditions refractory to standard treatment

Mental Health Concerns We Treat

In patients who have undergone extensive screening, ketamine may be used for:

  • Treatment-Resistant Depression
  • PTSD & Stress Disorders
  • Severe Anxiety Disorders
  • Addiction & Relapse Prevention

Important Note: Therapy is intended to reduce abnormal pain signaling and improve overall function, not to replace ongoing multidisciplinary care.

Explore Whether Ketamine Could Help

Working in Midtown Manhattan, & the Surrounding Area

Conveniently situated at 240 W 37th St in Midtown Manhattan, our office rests in the Garment District with access to Penn Station and key transit routes.


Our patients come from Midtown Manhattan, Downtown Manhattan, Midtown South, and areas in Hudson County, NJ. To maximize each patient’s time, all visits are by appointment only, giving you personalized, attentive care.

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Your Ketamine Therapy Experience, Step by Step

Preparing for Your Treatment

Patients are given thorough medical and psychiatric screenings, such as:



  • Evaluation of your health history and treatments you’ve previously tried
  • Review of current medications and potential interactions
  • Discussion of your goals and whether ketamine is an appropriate treatment option


Ketamine treatment is recommended only after determining that it is a suitable option based on the patient’s individual clinical needs.

Your Treatment Session

Treatment takes place in a quiet, private setting with medical supervision and ongoing vital-sign monitoring. Depending on the method and treatment protocol, sessions generally last 40–90 minutes. Patients may experience temporary relaxation or changes in perception during treatment; the medical team monitors these anticipated effects, which typically resolve after the session.

Recovery & Follow-Up

After treatment, patients remain under observation until they are medically stable and should not drive for the rest of the day. Follow-up care is planned around individual progress, as ketamine is commonly administered over multiple sessions with response assessed throughout treatment. 

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Precision, Monitoring & Medical Judgment

Will my ketamine treatment be covered by insurance?

Our clinic adheres to New York–appropriate medical standards, emphasizing:


• Individualized physician-directed care

• Conservative dosing and monitoring protocols

• Clear documentation and informed consent

• Integration with existing medical or mental health care


Dr. Makrides uses her clinical expertise to guide individualized ketamine treatment, prioritizing safety and appropriateness while recognizing that outcomes vary between patients.


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Perspectives From Our Patients

Our patients have trusted Dr. Makrides to alleviate persistent symptoms when previous approaches haven’t brought enough progress. Their experiences offer a firsthand look at the care behind each treatment plan. 

“She is amazing. I am now able to walk without pain. She is the real deal!”

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Your Ketamine Questions, Answered

  • Could ketamine therapy be right for me?

    Ketamine therapy may be worth considering if certain chronic pain or mental health symptoms have persisted despite conventional treatments. Dr. Makrides will review your medical history, previous treatments, current medications, and goals to determine whether ketamine is a medically appropriate option for you. 


  • How many ketamine treatments will I need?

    The number of ketamine treatments varies from person to person based on the condition being treated, your medical history, and your response to therapy. Ketamine is often provided as a series of sessions, with Dr. Makrides evaluating your progress over time and adjusting your treatment plan when appropriate. 

  • How long do appointments take?

    Ketamine treatment sessions typically last about 40–90 minutes, depending on the method of administration and your individualized protocol. Additional time may be needed for preparation and post-treatment monitoring, as patients remain at the clinic until they are medically stable.


  • Does insurance pay for ketamine therapy?

    Insurance coverage for ketamine therapy varies by plan, diagnosis, and treatment method. Some services may not be covered and could require out-of-pocket payment. We recommend checking with your insurance provider and contacting our office to better understand anticipated costs before beginning treatment.


  • Do I need a referral for ketamine therapy?

    Referral requirements can vary depending on your individual circumstances and existing care. Contact our office to discuss what may be required before scheduling. Dr. Makrides will also review your medical history, current providers, and previous treatments to determine the appropriate next steps.


  • Can ketamine therapy be part of my existing treatment plan?

    Yes, ketamine therapy may be incorporated into an existing treatment plan when medically appropriate. Dr. Makrides considers your current medications, treatments, and other healthcare providers to determine how ketamine may fit into your broader care while prioritizing safety and continuity. 


Discover a Different Kind of Ketamine Clinic

When traditional treatments haven’t provided enough progress, another direction may be worth looking into. Dr. Makrides provides physician-guided ketamine therapy in Midtown Manhattan, pairing individualized treatment with attentive medical supervision to help you understand your options and determine the best course of care. 

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