Golden Afternoon
Santa Monica, California
Conditions Treated
Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic and, in the form of Spravato (esketamine), for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. It is also widely used off-label for anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, bipolar depression, and certain chronic-pain conditions including CRPS and fibromyalgia. Eligibility depends on a clinical intake evaluation with the prescribing provider.
Treatment Offered at Golden Afternoon
Spravato (Esketamine)
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray derived from ketamine, administered in a certified healthcare setting. Patients self-administer the spray under clinical supervision and then rest on-site for two hours while staff monitor blood pressure and mental status. Treatment typically starts twice weekly, then tapers to weekly and eventually bi-weekly maintenance. Because Spravato is dispensed through a REMS-certified program, it must be given in-office — patients cannot take it home.
Ketamine Therapy in Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica is served by 3 ketamine providers including Golden Afternoon. Across California there are 341 listed ketamine clinics in the Ketamine Atlas directory, offering a range of treatment options including IV infusion, Spravato, sublingual programs, and telehealth. Santa Monica is also part of the Los Angeles metro area with additional providers nearby. If cost or distance is a barrier, telehealth options may allow treatment from home.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Before your first Spravato appointment, the clinic's team will review your psychiatric history, current medications, and confirm that you meet the FDA criteria (treatment-resistant depression or MDD with suicidal ideation). A prescriber must certify enrollment in the REMS program, so expect some administrative paperwork at the initial consultation.
On treatment days, the clinical staff will guide you through self-administering the nasal spray. You'll then remain in the office for a mandatory two-hour observation window while staff monitor blood pressure, alertness, and mental status. Bring something relaxing — music, an eye mask — and arrange a ride home, as driving is not permitted on treatment days.
Frequently Asked Questions about Golden Afternoon
How long does a session at Golden Afternoon last?
A typical Spravato (Esketamine) session lasts roughly two and a half hours per visit — this includes self-administering the nasal spray plus a mandatory two-hour on-site observation period required by the FDA REMS program.
Does Golden Afternoon accept insurance?
Most ketamine clinics, including Golden Afternoon, operate primarily on a cash-pay basis, as ketamine infusion therapy (IV, IM, sublingual) is not covered by most health plans. Spravato (esketamine) is an exception and has broader insurance coverage. Contact the clinic directly to confirm current options.
What conditions does Golden Afternoon treat?
Golden Afternoon offers ketamine therapy, which is FDA-approved for anesthesia and — as Spravato — for treatment-resistant depression. Off-label applications commonly addressed at ketamine clinics include anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar depression, and chronic-pain conditions. Contact Golden Afternoon directly to discuss your specific situation.
How do I book an appointment at Golden Afternoon?
You can reach Golden Afternoon by calling 310-310-8031 or visiting their website. Most clinics require a brief intake screening before scheduling the first treatment session.
Where is Golden Afternoon located?
Golden Afternoon is located at 1450 10th St, STE 300, Santa Monica, CA, 90401.