This department offers
- Behavioral health
- Counseling
- Ketamine services
- Mental health crisis care
- Psychiatric care
- Senior behavioral health
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
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
Take the first step towards a healthier, happier life
We provide comprehensive mental health services to support your well-being. Our team offers a variety of tailored services, including outpatient counseling, addiction services, medication management, and specialized treatments.
If you or a loved one needs mental health support, reach out to us. Our team is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a healthier, happier life.
Our providers
Our services
We offer a wide range of services to address various mental health needs, ensuring holistic and integrated care.
We are proud to offer innovative treatments like ketamine services, including Spravato, and eskatamine. These medications have shown promise in treating conditions such as depression, PTSD, and chronic pain. These treatments are administered in a safe and controlled environment by our trained professionals, ensuring the highest standards of care.
Available at select locations
Why Ketamine services work best with therapy
Ketamine services have gained recognition for their rapid and profound effects on mental health. When combined with introspective therapy, the benefits are even more significant. Introspective therapy encourages deep self-reflection and exploration of underlying thoughts and emotions. Ketamine's unique properties can enhance this process by:
- Altering Brain Chemistry: Ketamine acts on the brain's glutamate system, promoting new neural connections and pathways. This can provide a fresh perspective and reduce rigid thought patterns, making it easier to engage in introspective work.
- Reducing Emotional Barriers: Ketamine can help lower defenses and emotional barriers, allowing for a more open and honest exploration of one's inner experiences. This can lead to breakthroughs in understanding and addressing the root causes of mental health issues.
- Accelerating Progress: The combination of ketamine and introspective therapy can accelerate therapeutic progress, leading to faster relief from symptoms and a deeper sense of healing. Patients often report feeling more grounded and connected to their emotions after sessions.
- Creating a Safe Space: Our clinic provides a safe and supportive environment for ketamine-assisted therapy. Our professionals are trained to guide you through the experience, ensuring that you feel comfortable and secure throughout the process.
For patients who have not found relief through traditional antidepressants or therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a promising alternative. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, particularly those involved in mood regulation. This innovative treatment can be a game-changer for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression.
Available at select locations
- Utah Valley Clinic- Psychiatry and Counseling
- Avenues Specialty Clinic - Psychiatry and Counseling
- St. George - Psychiatry & Counseling Clinic
Benefits of TMS Therapy
TMS therapy involves placing a magnetic coil against the scalp, near the forehead. Short magnetic pulses are then directed to specific areas of the brain, activating neural pathways that can improve mood. Each session typically lasts around 30 to 40 minutes, and a full course of treatment usually requires daily sessions over several weeks.
TMS has several advantages over other treatments for depression:
- It is a non-invasive procedure, meaning no surgery or anesthesia is required.
- It has minimal side effects, with the most common being mild scalp discomfort or headache.
- It does not require medication, making it an excellent option for those who cannot tolerate antidepressant side effects.
- TMS can be used alongside other treatments, including medication and therapy, to enhance overall effectiveness.
Patient testimonial
"I felt safe with the nurses and doctors. Having them there bedside gave me a sense of calm and ease. I have had no experience with psychotropic drugs, the presence of care physicians was the only way I felt comfortable."
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