Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why choose Magnolia Therapy?
Magnolia focuses specifically on the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. We combine pharmacological interventions with structured psychological guidance within one integrated treatment plan.
Our approach is aimed at both neurobiological and psychological recovery. We work not only on symptom reduction, but on strengthening the natural recovery capacity and restoring functioning in a sustainable way.
What distinguishes Magnolia:
- Specialised experience with ketamine and esketamine treatment
- Intensive or longer-term treatment trajectories depending on your situation
- Multidisciplinary collaboration between psychiatrists and psychologists
- Careful screening and structured monitoring
- A calm, specially designed treatment environment
We take the time to carefully assess together whether our approach is appropriate for you. Treatment with us is not a standard protocol, but tailored care within clear medical frameworks.
What is the difference between the programme with the possibility of racemic ketamine (intramuscular) and the programme with esketamine nasal spray?
Both programmes are aimed at full recovery and strengthening the natural recovery capacity. We do not see treatment as symptom control, but as creating the conditions in which sustainable recovery becomes possible.
The programme with the possibility of racemic ketamine (intramuscular) is a short-term, intensive trajectory of approximately six weeks aimed at breaking through entrenched depressive patterns. Racemic ketamine may optionally be used as an additional intervention.
The programme with esketamine nasal spray (Spravato®) is a six-month trajectory in which esketamine forms a fixed component of the treatment. This programme is structured more gradually and is aimed at improvement, stabilisation and relapse prevention.
During an introductory consultation we discuss which programme — if appropriate — best fits your situation.
What if previous treatments have not worked?
Many people who contact Magnolia have already undergone multiple treatment steps without achieving lasting recovery.
Our programmes are intended for treatment-resistant depression and combine pharmacological interventions with intensive or longer-term psychological guidance. The use of racemic ketamine or esketamine may, under certain circumstances, offer a new therapeutic entry point.
At the same time, we cannot provide guarantees. Recovery is individual and depends on multiple factors. During screening we discuss realistically what you may expect from treatment.
What happens if the treatment has insufficient effect?
Progress is evaluated structurally within the treatment team. When improvement remains limited or absent, we discuss this openly and carefully with you.
Depending on your situation, the treatment strategy may be adjusted, continued with a different frequency, or the trajectory may be concluded if further continuation is not considered meaningful.
Careful evaluation and transparency are central.
Am I eligible for treatment?
Treatment at Magnolia is intended for people with treatment-resistant depressive disorder whose previous treatment steps have had insufficient effect.
During screening and intake we carefully assess:
- Previous treatment history
- Current medication
Psychiatric and medical history - Possible contra-indications
Treatment can only start when it is considered medically and therapeutically appropriate.
Is a referral or authorization required?
For both programmes a referral from a treating physician or therapist is required. With your consent we coordinate with them to ensure continuity of care.
For the programme with esketamine nasal spray, prior authorization from your health insurer is required.
For the programme with the possibility of racemic ketamine, depending on your policy and situation, authorization may also be required. This is carefully assessed during the screening.
Is ketamine or esketamine safe?
Ketamine has been used worldwide in medicine for decades. In the context of depression treatment it is used in carefully selected dosages and exclusively within a medical setting.
Safety begins with thorough screening. Before treatment we assess your medical and psychiatric history, current medication, physical health and possible contra-indications.
During administration there is medical supervision and monitoring. Blood pressure, wellbeing and possible side effects are monitored. Observation also takes place after the session before you leave.
Throughout the programme, effect, tolerability and progress are structurally evaluated within the treatment team. Safety and carefulness are central at every stage of treatment.
Can I become addicted to ketamine?
When used in a medical setting and under controlled dosing, the risk of addiction is very small. Treatment takes place within a structured programme with fixed frequency, medical supervision and clear clinical indication.
No medication is taken home and there is no free access to the substance. Possible risks are carefully discussed during screening.
When active substance misuse is present, treatment is not appropriate and this is considered a contra-indication.
What can I expect during a session?
Within both programmes, administration takes place in a specially designed, calm treatment setting.
During the session you wear an eye mask and listen to carefully selected music. The room is designed to minimise external stimuli and create a safe, controlled environment.
Continuous guidance is present and you are monitored throughout the session. The experience may involve changes in perception, thoughts or emotional experience. These reactions are prepared for within the treatment trajectory and integrated afterwards in the psychological guidance.
The pharmacological intervention does not stand alone but forms part of a broader therapeutic process.
Is the treatment reimbursed?
Magnolia does not have contracts with health insurers. Both programmes fall under non-contracted specialist mental healthcare.
The programme with esketamine nasal spray
For this programme prior authorization from your health insurer is required.
The esketamine nasal spray itself — after approved authorization — is fully reimbursed by your health insurer.
The costs of the treatment programme (diagnostics, guidance, supervision and consultations) fall under non-contracted care. Depending on your policy, a portion of these costs is typically reimbursed. The level of reimbursement differs per insurer and policy.
The programme with the possibility of racemic ketamine (intramuscular)
This treatment programme also falls under non-contracted care. Depending on your policy, a portion of the programme costs may be reimbursed.
The optional racemic ketamine intervention is not reimbursed by the health insurer.
The exact costs of both programmes can be found on the respective programme pages. During screening we map out the financial framework carefully so that you know in advance what to expect.
What if the personal contribution forms a barrier?
We understand that the personal contribution can be an important factor in deciding whether to start treatment.
During the intake we therefore discuss not only medical suitability but also financial feasibility. We believe it is important that specialist care is not only available to people with substantial financial means.
When the personal contribution forms a barrier, in exceptional situations — after individual assessment — we may explore whether there is room for an appropriate arrangement.
For the programme with esketamine nasal spray this may mean that, depending on your situation and reimbursement, the monthly personal contribution can be adjusted in consultation. For the programme with the possibility of racemic ketamine we also carefully discuss what may be appropriate in your situation.
We aim to be open and transparent so that you can make a well-informed decision.