Whole-Body Wellness & Aesthetics
At StrIVeMD, we understand that looking and feeling your best go hand in hand, which is why we offer a holistic approach to wellness and aesthetics.
Your First Visit
To start your journey, we ensure a smooth, comfortable first visit.
Upon arriving at our state-of-the-art facility, you will be greeted by our friendly and knowledgeable team who will guide you through check-in.
During your initial consultation, you will meet with our experienced doctors who will discuss your concerns, understand your unique needs, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically for you. We understand this process may be new to you, but we prioritize your peace of mind at every step.
At StrIVeMD Wellness and Ketamine, we take the privacy and security of Protected Health Information (PHI) seriously, complying with all HIPAA regulations to safeguard patient data. Patients have the right to access, amend, and request restrictions on their PHI, as well as receive an account of disclosures. For questions about our privacy policies or to exercise your rights, please contact our designated Privacy Official, Dr. Syed Ali, at 614-992-5484 or info@strivemdwellness.com. We are committed to protecting your health information and ensuring transparency.
Our Difference
Board-Certified Physicians
Our doctors have gone above and beyond with additional training, specialized knowledge, and have had numerous published research articles and presentations. Trust that you are in capable hands.
One-Stop Anti-Aging Mental & Physical Wellness
True wellness encompasses both physical and mental well-being. From rejuvenating anti-aging treatments to stress-reducing therapies, we offer a wide range of services that address your mind, body, and soul.
Cutting-Edge, On-Site Treatments
Step into a realm of innovation, where hope and healing intertwine. Our team offers cutting-edge treatments on-site, including ketamine infusion therapy for treatment-resistant mood disorders, and chronic pain.
Virtual Visits
In our fast-paced world, convenience is key. Virtual visits allow you to receive expert medical advice and consultations from the comfort of your own home.
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The life you've dreamed of is waiting for you. Get in touch today to get started on alternative therapy.
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Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Q&A
What happens during ketamine infusion therapy?
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During a ketamine infusion therapy session, you will be in the hands of our highly trained medical professionals who are committed to your well-being.
Once your treatment plan is in place, you will be guided to a comfortable treatment room. Our team will carefully administer a controlled dose of ketamine through an IV. You'll be closely monitored throughout the entire infusion process to ensure your safety and well-being. Many patients report a deep sense of relaxation and tranquility during the session, allowing them to let go of their worries and experience a profound shift in their mental state.
How quickly will I see results from my ketamine infusion therapy?
The speed at which you'll notice results from ketamine infusion therapy can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals may experience rapid improvements in their symptoms, while others may take a bit longer. Here are some general guidelines:
- Immediate Effects: Some people report feeling an immediate, though often temporary, improvement in mood or relief from certain symptoms during or shortly after the infusion. These acute effects can be noticeable within hours or even minutes of the session.
- Short-Term Effects: Many individuals start to notice more substantial improvements in their mood, anxiety, or other targeted symptoms within the first few days to a week after their initial ketamine infusion. These effects can be relatively short-lived, lasting for a few days to a couple of weeks.
- Long-Term Effects: For some individuals, the benefits of ketamine infusion therapy may become more pronounced and long-lasting after a series of sessions. A typical treatment course involves multiple infusions over several weeks, and the cumulative effects of these sessions may provide relief that lasts for several weeks to months.
- Maintenance: To sustain the therapeutic benefits, many people require periodic maintenance infusions. The frequency of these maintenance sessions can vary from person to person but is often spaced out over a more extended period, such as every few weeks or months.
What are potential side effects?
- Drowsiness: A common side effect that can occur, but our team is on hand to ensure comfort and safety.
- Double Vision: Should you experience this, we monitor and manage the symptom within our clinic.
- Increased Heart Rate: We keep a close watch on your cardiac response to the IV therapy.
- Increased Blood Pressure: Any changes in blood pressure are carefully tracked and managed.
We are fully prepared with effective measures to immediately address and manage any issues, ensuring your safety is never compromised. Rest assured, you are in a controlled environment where your safety and comfort are our highest priority.
How much does ketamine therapy cost?
IV ketamine infusions at StrIVeMD start at $399 per session. First-time patients can take $100 off their first treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
Most patients begin with an induction series of six infusions administered over two to three weeks. After completing this series, Dr. Ali will review your response and build a personalized maintenance plan from there — typically a single booster infusion every four to eight weeks. Patients with more complex or long-standing conditions may benefit from additional sessions before transitioning to maintenance. Your plan will always be tailored to you, never one-size-fits-all.
What does an infusion session feel like?
Most patients describe the experience as deeply relaxing — a pleasant heaviness as the outside world grows quieter, sometimes with a mild dreamlike quality as the session progresses. You are not asleep; you are in a calm, inward state while your brain begins forming new pathways. A member of our clinical team is with you the entire time monitoring your comfort and safety, and when the infusion ends, the effects ease off gently and naturally. Most patients tell us afterward that the experience was far more peaceful than they expected.
What should I expect on my first visit?
Plan for approximately two to three hours with us. We ask that you fast for four to six hours beforehand and arrange for someone to drive you home. When you arrive, Dr. Ali will personally walk through your medical history, your mental health journey, and your treatment goals — a conversation that typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. From there, you'll be settled into a comfortable reclining chair and your first infusion, which typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, will begin. Afterward, we give you unhurried time to rest before you leave.
Is IV ketamine therapy safe?
Yes. Ketamine has been FDA-approved since 1970, has been used safely in operating rooms for over 50 years, and is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines. As a board-certified anesthesiologist, Dr. Ali has spent his career mastering the precise administration of IV medications, and every patient at StrIVeMD is monitored continuously throughout their infusion. A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation is conducted before your first session to confirm you are an appropriate candidate.
Syed Ali, MD, MBA
MD, MBA
Dr. Syed Ali’s journey to becoming a medical expert is impressive. Board-certified in both anesthesiology and pain medicine, and holding a certification in functional medicine, his academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and sociology from Case Western Reserve University. Laying the groundwork for his deep understanding of the human body and social and behavioral science.
With a strong sense of purpose, Dr. Ali attended The Ohio State University College of Medicine, earning his medical degree in 2005. His dedication and commitment to his field were evident during his time at the Cleveland Clinic, where he completed a rigorous four-year anesthesiology residency. Notably, he also served as the residency research coordinator.
Embracing his role as a trailblazer, Dr. Ali pursued a fellowship in pain medicine, eventually becoming the chief fellow. His dedication to the field didn't stop there; he played a pivotal role in establishing a thriving pain group in Akron, Ohio. Here, he actively engaged with patient advocacy committees and served as the team pain physician for the University of Akron and Kent State University athletic teams.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Ali shares his extensive knowledge as an associate professor of surgery at The Northeastern Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) and as an associate professor of anesthesiology at The Ohio University College of Medicine.
In 2018, Dr. Ali embarked on a new chapter in Chicago, Illinois. When he's not providing dedicated care to his patients, he generously volunteers at PAWS in Lincoln Park, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to both his community and its furry friends.
Dr. Ali's impact transcends borders. His passion for clinical research and education has led him to participate in annual medical missions to Central America and Africa, where he continues to make a difference in the lives of those in need.
Greg Gaskin, MD
MD
Meet Dr. Gregory B. Gaskin II, a seasoned anesthesiologist with over a decade of experience specializing in adult and adolescent anesthesia.
Dr. Gaskin's story begins in the heart of Detroit, where he was born and raised. His strong connection to the city and its people is a driving force in his medical career.
He embarked on his academic journey at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), earning a Bachelor of Science degree. This foundation laid the groundwork for his future in the field of medicine.
For medical school, Dr. Gaskin returned to his hometown, choosing Wayne State University School of Medicine. His decision to stay close to his parents exemplifies his deep-rooted family values and commitment to his community.
After exploring surgical specialties for three years, Dr. Gaskin had an epiphany. Anesthesiology became his true calling, marking the beginning of an extraordinary medical career.
His journey continued with a rigorous residency at The Cleveland Clinic, ranked as the #2 hospital in the nation. Here, he refined his skills and gained invaluable expertise.
In 2008, Dr. Gaskin and his wife, Rachel, made the move to the burgeoning Dallas suburb of Frisco, Texas. This dynamic couple now has two young children, adding an extra layer of joy to their lives.
When he's not in the operating room, Dr. Gaskin is an avid traveler and a passionate supporter of the University of Michigan Wolverines. He also holds a special interest in the mental health of frontline workers and servicemen, driven by his father's 30-year career as a Detroit police officer who faced the challenges of the 1968 Detroit riots.
Dr. Gregory Gaskin II brings expertise, compassion, and a deep-rooted sense of community to his practice. Your comfort and well-being are his top priorities.
David Kleiss, CRNA, APRN
CRNA, APRN
David Kleiss, CRNA, APRN is originally from central Illinois. He grew up in a small farming community and was active from a young age with his family farm. He grew up with a desire to incorporate a strong work ethic in all aspects of his life. He graduated with top honors from Eastern Illinois University and valedictorian from Lakeview College of Nursing. He worked in multiple intensive ICUs as a registered nurse, with significant experience in cardiothoracic and traumatic patient care. He graduated top in his class in Nurse Anesthesia from Southern Illinois University. David has since provided nearly a decade of anesthesia care in multiple urban and rural settings. David has a strong background in mental health and is currently pursuing a psychiatric nursing degree.
James Burton APRN
MSN APRN ACNPC- AG
James Burton is a certified nurse practitioner. He started his nursing career in a post open heart and heart/lung transplant intensive care unit. He went to Lewis University to earn an MSN degree and became an acute care nurse practitioner. He has extensive experience working with inpatient pulmonology inpatients as well as acute care for patients in the emergency room. Outside of clinic, James enjoys spending time with his family, going to Disney, and watching the Chicago Blackhawks and Green Bay Packers.
Olivia Burton APRN
APRN NP-C
Olivia is a certified nurse practitioner and aesthetic injector. She started her nursing career in a post open heart ICU and after 6 months became a preceptor for new nurses. She went on to Lewis University to earn an MSN degree and become a primary care nurse practitioner. Aside from working with patients with treatment resistant mental health disorders, she is certified in providing treatments with Botox® and dermal fillers and treats patients for weight loss.
Jeannine Fair FPA
FPA APRN NP-C
Jeanine has many years of experience: first as a registered nurse in ICU, pediatric burn center, labor/delivery and operating room, and then as a nurse practitioner in an anesthesia/ pain practice. She enjoys not only helping patients feel better physically, but also helping people feel better about themselves in general.
Aside from working with patients at StrIVeMD Wellness and Ketamine with treatment resistant depression and anxiety, Jeanine is also owner & medical director of NUVO Aesthetics Clinic and is an expert in Botox®, fillers, and Kybella®.
