Ketamine therapy for PTSD
What the evidence shows for ketamine in post-traumatic stress disorder, who is a candidate, what a course looks like, and why it is usually cash pay.
Reviewed by Covered Mind clinical editorial team · Sep 1, 2026
What the evidence says
Repeated IV ketamine infusions reduced PTSD symptoms more than an active placebo in a randomized trial of six infusions over two weeks, with effects lasting several weeks in responders. Results across studies are mixed and durability is limited without maintenance, so ketamine for PTSD is best framed as an adjunct to trauma-focused psychotherapy. See the coverage hub, the ketamine therapy hub, and the coverage checker.
Who is a candidate
Adults with chronic PTSD who have not improved with first-line treatments (trauma-focused CBT, EMDR, SSRIs), without contraindications to ketamine. Many clinics pair infusions with therapy sessions because the window after dosing appears to help processing.
What treatment looks like
Six infusions over two to three weeks, then boosters. Some programs use ketamine-assisted psychotherapy formats instead. See ketamine-assisted psychotherapy explained.
Coverage and cost
Not covered by commercial insurance, Medicare or Medicaid. Some VA facilities offer ketamine for veterans with treatment-resistant depression and PTSD; ask your VA mental health clinic. Cash prices run $350 to $850 per infusion. See ketamine clinics by state.
Related
Reviewed by Covered Mind clinical editorial team · Sep 1, 2026 · Editorial policy
Cite this
Covered Mind. "Ketamine therapy for PTSD." https://web-three-tan-98.vercel.app/conditions/ptsd/ketamine-therapy. Reviewed Sep 1, 2026.
This site provides general information about insurance coverage and treatment options. It is not medical advice, not a guarantee of coverage, and not a substitute for talking with a clinician or your health plan.