Treatment Resistant Depression
Advanced Treatments for Lasting Relief
Utah Valley Psychiatry and Counseling is now offering Ketamine and TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for Treatment Resistant Depression. Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD) can be a challenging condition where traditional antidepressants and therapies have not provided sufficient relief. At our facility, we offer advanced treatment options tailored to help those who continue to struggle with depressive symptoms. Here are some of the most promising treatments available:
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
- Non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain.
- Typically involves daily sessions over a period of several weeks.
- Shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of depression.
- Minimal side effects, mainly mild scalp discomfort or headaches.
Ketamine
- Administered intravenously in a controlled clinical setting.
- Acts rapidly, often providing relief within hours to days.
- Effective for patients who have not responded to other treatments.
- Monitoring required due to potential dissociative effects.
Spravato (Esketamine)
- Nasal spray form of ketamine approved by the FDA.
- Administered in conjunction with an oral antidepressant.
- Usually taken twice a week for the first month, then less frequently.
- Requires monitoring at a certified treatment center due to potential side effects.
Requirements for Ketamine Treatment
To be eligible for these advanced treatments, patients must have a referral and meet the following requirements:
- Have a referral from a primary care provider or therapist.
- Have failed to achieve adequate relief from two or more antidepressant medications.
Additional Considerations for Referral for Ketamine Treatment
The ideal candidate for ketamine is an individual with the following:
- Severe major depressive disorder that is treatment resistant (failing at least 2 antidepressants)
- No history of psychosis
- No current substance use disorder
- In therapy currently and/or willing to attend group therapy
- Must be 18+ (adults only)
Patients with the following conditions are neither appropriate nor eligible for ketamine treatment:
- Recent myocardial infarct (heart attack)
- Recent stroke
- Recent or active psychosis
- Schizophrenia
- Recent mania
- Unstable or recent relapse of substance use disorder
- Arteriovenous malformation
- Poorly controlled hypertension
- Pregnant and/or breastfeeding
- Poorly controlled or recent seizures
- History of aneurysm