In this episode, I share my experience from the first session of my ketamine-assisted therapy journey. I walk listeners through what the session looked like from a nervous-system and emotional perspective—what surprised me, what felt challenging, and what I noticed in the hours and days that followed. This conversation is rooted in honest reflection and gentle processing, offering insight into what a first session can feel like for those navigating medical trauma, chronic illness, or the emotional weight of long-term care.

This episode is intended for educational and storytelling purposes only and does not replace professional medical or mental health care. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any treatment decisions.

In this episode, I introduce a new mini-series within The Nutcracker Syndrome Podcast focused on ketamine-assisted therapy and its role in navigating medical trauma, chronic illness, and the emotional weight of long-term health journeys. I share why I chose to explore this modality, what led me to begin my own therapeutic process, my goals with this therapy, and what listeners can expect throughout this series. This conversation is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and transparency, offering both personal reflection and educational context for those who may be considering or simply wanting to better understand ketamine-assisted therapy as part of a broader mental health and healing landscape.

Medical & Mental Health Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical, psychological, or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and experiences shared reflect personal perspectives and do not replace consultation with a licensed physician, mental health professional, or other qualified healthcare provider. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, mental health concern, or treatment decisions. Never disregard professional medical or mental health advice or delay seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, please contact your local emergency services immediately.

I’m excited to continue sharing stories as part of our Caretaker Series, a space dedicated to expanding our understanding of the vital role social support systems play throughout the NCS journey.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Shay and Clancey as they share their lived experiences navigating the complex and often evolving dynamics of caregiving and support. Their conversation offers valuable insights into building and sustaining an effective support system, including the importance of well-organized medical documentation, establishing clear and consistent communication channels, and engaging in difficult but necessary discussions surrounding power of attorney and shared decision-making.