Welcome to Initia Nova Delaware. The Science of Healing. The Art of Care.
Discover Your Path to Mental Health and Wellness in Wilmington, Delaware
At Initia Nova, we specialize in advanced, individualized care for people navigating depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, post-concussion symptoms and other complex challenges. Whether you’re seeking relief from long standing mental health concerns or looking to optimize your physical and emotional well being, we offer more than ketamine therapy. We offer a path forward.
Our approach is rooted in evidence-based medicine, trauma-informed care, and whole person healing. You may feel like you’ve tried everything, but there are powerful, research-backed treatments available that you may not have experienced yet. Our goal is to help you move forward with clarity, confidence and hope.
We are excited to announce that we now offer intranasal esketamine (Spravato) as a treatment for depression. We currently are in network with Highmark BCBS with more to follow soon.
Our Expert
Our Expertise
John W. Dougherty III DO, MS
Dr. John Dougherty is a board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience treating depression, PTSD, addiction, chronic pain and other complex mental health conditions using IV ketamine and other advanced therapies. Since 2016, he has performed over 5,000 ketamine infusions and is recognized as a national leader in the field. He is a former board member of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists and Practitioners (ASKP3) and currently serves on their Expert Faculty.
In addition to his expertise in ketamine therapy, Dr. Dougherty has a special interest in sports psychiatry and traumatic brain injury. He is a member of the International Society for Sports Psychiatry (ISSP) and serves as the East Coast Regional Director of Sports Psychiatry for Team USA Rugby. He works with athletes at all levels, including professionals, to support recovery from injury, improve mental performance and promote lifelong resilience.
Dr. Dougherty also maintains a private psychiatry practice, serves as Associate Medical Director at Harbor of Grace Recovery (a dual diagnosis center for first responders) and holds a faculty position as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins University.
A Beacon of Hope for Wilmington Residents
At Initia Nova in Wilmington, DE, Dr. Dougherty leads a care model built around more than just medication. We understand that improving mental and physical health often requires a deeper look into all areas of life. Every patient begins with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, along with a cardiometabolic and physical health review that may include assessments of sleep, diet, stress management and lifestyle habits.
Our personalized treatment plans may include ketamine infusion therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) or other supportive options like NAD+ therapy, low-dose naltrexone (LDN), baclofen, vivitrol or lab testing with lifestyle optimization.
If you are struggling with a mental health condition, addiction or post-concussion symptoms and are looking for new answers, Initia Nova Delaware offers evidence-based treatments that can help you reconnect with hope and healing. Reach out today to learn how our compassionate and experienced team can help you feel like yourself again.
Named for the Latin phrase meaning “new beginning,” Initia Nova is built around the idea that healing is always possible. Whether you’re ready for a full program or seeking thoughtful guidance, we invite you to explore the options below and take the next step toward feeling better.
Pathways to Wellness
Specialized Treatment Programs
Each of our programs is carefully designed to meet the unique needs of every patient. Guided by the latest clinical research and years of hands-on experience, we take a personalized approach to help you find the most effective path to healing.
To provide the highest level of individualized care and maintain a direct relationship with our patients, we do not participate with insurance networks for any of these advanced programs. Payment is due at the time of service. We do however participate with private or commercial insurance for Spravato. Request a consultation to learn more.
Explore our treatment options to find the program that best supports your goals.
Ketamine Infusion Therapy
Cutting edge therapy from some of the most experienced ketamine providers in the world
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
Combining IV ketamine with an experienced trauma therapist for PTSD and other conditions
SPRAVATO® Therapy
Unlike many antidepressants that require several weeks to show results, SPRAVATO® has demonstrated noticeable symptom improvement in as little as 24 hours in clinical studies.
Specialized Individual Appointments
For evaluations and prescriptions of specialized treatments such as low-dose naltrexone (LDN), methylene blue, baclofen or vivitrol
Sports Psychiatry
Combining IV ketamine with specialized therapy and other treatments for athletes of all levels
General Health & Wellness & NAD+
For a comprehensive psychiatric and metabolic evaluation with review of lab work and lifestyle changes needed to improve your overall health - includes NAD+ infusions
Addiction Support
Find new hope with advanced treatments like combining ketamine infusion therapy with vivitrol and other medications
Ketamine Infusion Therapy
A Breakthrough Treatment for Depression and More
Ketamine has emerged as one of the most promising breakthroughs in mental health treatment in the past 25 years. Originally developed and used as an anesthetic over 50 years ago, intravenous (IV) ketamine is now widely studied for its rapid and powerful antidepressant effects. Research has shown it can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, PTSD, anxiety, OCD, addiction and some forms of chronic pain especially in patients who have not responded to traditional treatments.
At Initia Nova, ketamine is not a standalone solution. It is part of a carefully designed, individualized treatment plan. Our experienced physicians have been providing ketamine infusions since 2016 and understand how to tailor dosing and protocols based on each patient’s unique medical history, goals and response to treatment.
If you’re feeling stuck or losing hope, ketamine infusion therapy may offer a new path forward.
Break through what’s holding you back.
Cost:
The full Initia Nova evaluation and initial series of 8 infusions is $3,400.
Contact us to schedule your free phone evaluation and learn whether ketamine therapy is right for you.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
World Class Treatment, Close To Home
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) combines low-dose ketamine infusion therapy with guided talk therapy, offering a powerful treatment option for individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, addiction and more. This innovative approach can help people process painful experiences and emotional patterns in ways that may not be possible with talk therapy or ketamine alone.
At Initia Nova, we recognized the immense potential of KAP early on. In 2016, our physicians partnered with some of the most experienced trauma therapists in the country to create one of the first KAP programs in the world. Since then, we have helped hundreds of patients move beyond treatment resistant symptoms through this collaborative approach.
Low-dose ketamine induces a mild dissociative state often described as a deep state of calm or mental spaciousness that can help quiet negative self-talk, lower defenses and allow for more effective emotional processing. This neuroplastic window can support breakthroughs for individuals who feel stuck in patterns shaped by trauma or chronic mental health conditions.
The Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy Experience
During a typical KAP session, you will work directly with one of our experienced trauma therapists during your infusion. These 60 to 90 minute sessions include therapeutic support during the ketamine experience and integration work immediately afterward. This allows you to explore difficult emotions in a safe, supported environment and begin to reframe how you relate to those experiences.
Each session is highly individualized. Treatment may vary depending on your personal needs, provider availability and location. We also encourage patients to continue working with their own therapist between KAP sessions and we’re happy to coordinate care if you’d like us to collaborate with your existing mental health provider.
KAP is a shared process. Ketamine is administered at Initia Nova by Dr. Dougherty or Dr. Sullivan, and psychotherapy is provided by one of our trusted collaborating trauma therapists. Because these are two distinct services, the costs are billed separately.
Ready to transform your healing journey? Contact us today to schedule your personalized KAP session and start reframing your story in a safe, supportive environment.
Cost:
The Initia Nova psychiatric evaluation and initial series of 8 ketamine infusions is $3,400. Psychotherapy session costs vary and are billed directly by the therapist.
Healing Is More Than Medicine.
Break Free from Treatment-Resistant Depression with SPRAVATO® Therapy
When traditional antidepressants aren’t enough, SPRAVATO® offers a breakthrough path forward for adults struggling with Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Unlike standard daily medications that can take weeks or months to show results, this FDA-approved, insurance-covered nasal spray is designed to act quickly, often providing noticeable symptom relief in as little as 24 hours. At Initia Nova, we prioritize your healing, safety, and comfort above all else.
Your treatments are self-administered under the close supervision of our highly compassionate medical team in a carefully designed, calming environment at our Cherry Hill, NJ, or Wilmington, DE clinics. We monitor you for a minimum of two hours post-treatment to ensure you feel entirely safe and supported every step of the way.
From handling insurance paperwork to coordinating seamlessly with your current therapist or psychiatrist, we make the process as stress-free as possible. Take the first step toward reclaiming your joy, peace of mind, and lasting wellness today.
Sports Psychiatry Program
Getting Back to Peak Mental And Physical Performance
For Athletes Of Any Level
Athletes are human beings first. While elite performance can bring pride and fulfillment, the demands of training, competition and injury often carry hidden costs. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, addiction and post-concussion or traumatic brain injury symptoms are common challenges that can derail not only athletic careers but overall well-being. Unfortunately, these struggles are often misunderstood, minimized or overlooked in the world of sports and medicine.
At Initia Nova in Delaware, we take a different approach. When the mind gets in the way of the game, we combine the clinical expertise of Dr. John Dougherty, a board-certified psychiatrist and leader in sports psychiatry, with our advanced ketamine infusion and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) programs to create a powerful, athlete focused treatment model.
Whether you’re an elite competitor, college athlete or lifelong recreational player, your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation by Dr. Dougherty. He will assess your mental health, concussion history, performance related concerns and lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition and stress management. From there, you’ll receive a personalized to relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD or post-concussive syndrome and support your mental reset.
Unlock Peak Performance with Sports Psychologist Dr. Ciarán Dalton.
For athletes seeking that extra mental edge, we’ve partnered with acclaimed sports psychologist Dr. Ciarán Dalton. With experience guiding competitors from college squads to professional leagues, he’ll help you overcome performance anxiety, sharpen focus, and build unshakeable confidence.
We’ll be happy to refer you to his practice for one-on-one sessions, which are seamlessly integrated with our broader performance services, providing a comprehensive treatment program.
At Initia Nova, peak performance begins with a clear, resilient mind. Ready to elevate your game? Contact us today to book your consultation and connect with Dr. Dalton for personalized sports psychology guidance.
Cost:
The Initia Nova evaluation and initial series of 8 ketamine infusions is $3,400.
Therapy sessions with our collaborating providers (either KAP or outside therapy with Dr. Dalton) are billed separately and directly by each therapist.
Compete Clear. Think Sharp. Live Ready.
Individual Appointments
Care That Meets You Where You Are
Not every patient needs a full program. Some are simply looking for expert guidance, cutting edge options and an individualized plan from a highly experienced physician. At Initia Nova of Delaware, you can schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. John Dougherty to explore your options and determine the best next step for your mental health or recovery.
If you’re interested in starting advanced medications such as Vivitrol injections, low-dose naltrexone (LDN), baclofen, naltrexone using the Sinclair Method or newer treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, an individual appointment may be the best place to begin.
What's The Best Treatment Option for Your Condition?
Or maybe you’re feeling stuck and unsure which treatment path makes the most sense. You’ve heard of options like ketamine, KAP, TMS, or Spravato, but knowing which is right for you, or whether you need them at all, isn’t always clear. At Initia Nova Delaware, you’ll get honest, thoughtful guidance from a physician who understands both established psychiatric care and the latest innovations in mental health treatment. We’re here to help you make confident, informed decisions about your next step.
Unlike many local clinics that offer ketamine infusions only, we take a broader, more comprehensive approach. Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, an expert consultation or a medication based treatment plan, we’re committed to helping you find the path that fits your goals.
Clarity Starts with the Right Conversation
Cost:
Initial Psychiatric Evaluation: $500
Follow-up Appointments: $250
(Medication costs are separate depending on your insurance and the pharmacy used)
General Health and Wellness
NAD+ Brain restoration therapy
The human body is a network of interconnected systems. When one area is out of balance, it can affect everything else including your mental health. Many of the same root causes that lead to chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes also contribute to depression, anxiety, insomnia and fatigue.
If you are feeling low on energy, struggling with brain fog, gaining weight despite healthy habits or simply not feeling like yourself, this program is designed for you. It’s for those who want to improve their health with more than guesswork – guided instead by lab data, expert evaluation and evidence based recommendations.
How Our Program Works
Our General Health and Wellness Program is a year long plan that begins with a comprehensive medical and psychiatric evaluation. This includes a full review of your physical health, lab testing, blood pressure monitoring and an assessment of your sleep, diet, exercise and stress management routines. From there, you’ll return for four follow-up visits throughout the year to track progress and refine your personalized wellness plan.
At each of those visits, you will also receive an infusion of NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) a critical molecule involved in cellular energy, metabolism, DNA repair and brain function. As we age, NAD+ levels decline, especially under stress or illness. Replenishing NAD+ through infusion can help restore energy, sharpen focus, improve sleep quality and support long term neurological and metabolic health.
If we identify any significant abnormalities in your lab results or physical exam, we will refer you to your primary care provider or an appropriate specialist to ensure those issues are addressed properly.
This program is ideal for those ready to take control of their health, improve how they feel day to day and build a stronger foundation for long term mental and physical wellness.
Contact us to schedule your evaluation and learn whether the General Health and Wellness Program is right for you.
Cost:
The full program is $2,450 and includes your initial evaluation, four follow-up appointments, and four NAD+ infusions (one per visit).
Additional visits are $250 each. .
Extra NAD+ infusions can be added for $450 per day.
Balance your systems. Strengthen your foundation. Live better.
Addiction Recovery and Substance Use Treatment
A New Approach. A New Beginning.
At Initia Nova Delaware, we understand that substance use disorders are deeply personal and often linked to underlying mental health conditions like depression, anxiety or PTSD/trauma. True recovery requires more than detox it requires a comprehensive, medically grounded approach that treats both the body and the mind.
For some patients, a medication based plan may be the right first step. We offer individual appointments for those seeking guidance and prescription support with medications such as Vivitrol (monthly injections), oral naltrexone in the Sinclair Method, low-dose naltrexone (LDN), baclofen, Campral, or Antabuse. This option is ideal for those focused on relapse prevention who may not be experiencing significant mood symptoms or who already have a strong support system in place.
For individuals whose substance use is tied to persistent depression, anxiety, PTSD or emotional distress, we offer a more integrative and intensive program. Our Comprehensive Addiction Treatment Program combines expert psychiatric care with advanced medical therapies to target both the physical and emotional drivers of addiction.
About Our Addiction Program
This program includes a full psychiatric evaluation and medication support, 8 ketamine infusions tailored to your individual needs, and a series of NAD+ infusions to support brain health, reduce cravings, and promote detoxification. For those who may benefit from additional psychological support, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) is available through our trusted network of therapists (sessions billed separately).
NAD+ plays a crucial role in this integrative approach. As a key molecule involved in cellular repair and neurological resilience, it helps reverse some of the damage that prolonged substance use can cause. During active substance use and withdrawal, NAD+ levels are often depleted contributing to fatigue, brain fog, anxiety and cravings. Replenishing NAD+ through infusion therapy can accelerate recovery and help restore cognitive clarity, energy and emotional balance.
Our approach is never one size fits all. If significant health concerns or lab abnormalities arise, we’ll refer you to your primary care provider or a specialist to ensure you receive appropriate medical care.
Ready to take the next step toward lasting recovery? Contact us today to schedule your personalized evaluation and begin your tailored ketamine + NAD⁺ treatment plan.
Cost:
The comprehensive addiction treatment program is $5,900 and includes your psychiatric evaluation, 8 ketamine infusions, and at least 4 NAD+ infusions.
*Medication appointments and therapy sessions (including KAP) are billed separately.
Restore your health. Rebuild your life. Reclaim your future.
New Beginnings Start with the Right Care
At Initia Nova Delaware, we specialize in advanced treatments for depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction, post-concussion symptoms and performance related challenges all delivered with care that’s personalized to your unique needs.
Whether you’re exploring ketamine infusion therapy, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) or our integrative sports psychiatry program, our goal is the same: to help you heal, reset and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Led by some of the most experienced ketamine providers in the world, our team offers more than symptom relief we’re here to help you reclaim your well being and rediscover your potential.
Don’t trust your brain to just anyone. Your new beginning starts here.
Phone
(302) 599-6286
Hours
Monday - Friday
9 A.M. - 5 P.M.
Office Address
3512 Silverside Road Suite 13
Wilmington, DE 19810
Initia Nova is a state-of-the-art medical clinic with locations in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Wilmington, DE, offering cutting-edge treatments for mood disorders, addiction and pain. Our experienced and compassionate team provides personalized care to help patients achieve optimal health and well-being.
© 2026 Initia Nova. All Rights Reserved. Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Acceptable Use