What is an out-of-network physician?

Dr. Hamidi is an out-of-network physician, which means she does not have a contractual relationship with any insurance providers. Payment is due at the time of your appointment. Depending on your plan, your insurance may offer partial reimbursement for out-of-network services, though this varies widely and may not cover the full cost of care. We’re happy to provide you with a detailed receipt (a “superbill”) that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.

What is a Superbill?

A superbill is a detailed receipt that outlines the services you received during your visit with Dr. Hamidi. It includes medical codes and fees that your insurance company may require for reimbursement. While Dr. Hamidi is an out-of-network provider, patients can submit superbills to their insurance for potential reimbursement, depending on their specific plan and out-of-network benefits.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Both psychiatrists and psychologists are trained to support mental health, but they differ in education and scope of practice. As a psychiatrist, Dr. Hamidi is a medical doctor who completed medical school followed by five years of specialized residency training in psychiatry and an additional year of psychiatric fellowship. This medical background allows her to both prescribe medication and provide psychotherapy.

Psychologists, by contrast, typically hold doctoral degrees in psychology and are experts in providing talk therapy, psychological assessment, and behavioral interventions. While psychologists do not prescribe medication, they play an essential role in mental health care—often working collaboratively with psychiatrists when medication management is needed.

Is ketamine safe?

Yes—when used responsibly in a medical setting, ketamine can be a safe and effective treatment. Dr. Hamidi administers ketamine within a carefully structured therapeutic framework, offering preparation, monitoring, and integration to support both emotional and physical safety.

It's important to know that not all providers are trained to guide the full therapeutic process. Medical credentials alone don’t ensure the experience is held with the psychological care it requires. Recreational or unsupervised use, on the other hand, carries serious risks and is strongly discouraged.

If you're considering ketamine therapy, it's essential to work with someone who understands both the medicine and the deeper process it can initiate.

How long does ketamine last?

The immediate effects of ketamine, when administered in a therapeutic setting, typically last between 30 to 60 minutes. However, it’s common to experience lingering sensations—such as shifts in perception, emotional sensitivity, or physical fatigue—for several hours afterward.

Each person’s response is unique, and integration time can vary. For this reason, sessions are carefully structured to provide a safe and supportive environment throughout the experience and afterward. Dr. Hamidi will guide you every step of the way to ensure your well-being and help you process what emerges.

Can I drive after a treatment?

No—for your safety, you may not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day following a ketamine session. You must arrange for a trusted friend or family member to pick you up, especially after your first treatment, as ride services like Uber, Lyft, or taxis are not permitted at that time.

In later sessions, if appropriate, I may allow the use of a ride service, but having someone familiar with you is always preferred during the early stages of this work.