At Head Well Integrative Psychiatry & Wellness, we know that mental health care can extend beyond symptom management. Many people living with depression, anxiety, or trauma feel they’ve “tried everything,” yet continue to experience symptoms. Treatments like Spravato® (esketamine) and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) offer additional options that may be considered as part of an individualized treatment plan.
By integrating current psychiatric treatment with compassionate, whole-person care, Head Well helps patients explore options for their mental health and well-being, because wellness is within.
The New Era of Neuroplasticity-Based Treatment
Many traditional antidepressants act primarily on neurotransmitter systems such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Spravato® and ketamine act differently, affecting the glutamate system. Research has examined how these effects may influence neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new neural connections.
Researchers continue to study the relationship between ketamine, neuroplasticity, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and changes associated with antidepressant response.
In psychotherapy-integrated approaches, this treatment experience can also provide an opportunity for patients to explore thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and personal goals with therapeutic support.
Spravato®: FDA-Approved Esketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression
Spravato® is an FDA-approved nasal spray containing esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Administered under medical supervision, it is indicated for adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation.
At Head Well, Spravato® sessions take place in a calming, supportive environment. Patients rest comfortably while our clinical team monitors them, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the process.
Spravato® may help reduce depressive symptoms in appropriate patients. Individual response to treatment varies.
We also emphasize support around the medication experience through therapy, mindfulness, lifestyle interventions, and other elements of an individualized care plan when clinically appropriate.
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy: Support Through Connection
Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP) combines ketamine treatment with intentional therapeutic work. In KAP sessions, ketamine is administered in a setting designed to support introspection, with a therapist available to help patients explore and process thoughts, emotions, or experiences that may arise.
Psychotherapy can provide a structure for reflecting on the treatment experience and considering how observations from a session relate to the patient’s broader goals and ongoing care.
KAP may include support for:
• Exploring emotional experiences and patterns
• Reflecting on thoughts or observations that arise during treatment
• Incorporating the treatment experience into ongoing psychotherapy
• Considering relationships, personal values, and goals
KAP can provide a structured setting for patients to reflect on their treatment experience and explore how it relates to their ongoing care.
Why Integration Matters
At Head Well, we see Spravato® and KAP as complementary modalities within a broader integrative psychiatry framework. Combining biological, psychological, and lifestyle interventions honors the complexity of each person’s experience.
Our integrative approach considers factors that may contribute to a person’s symptoms and overall health which may include:
• Testing and evaluation for metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory imbalances
• Personalized life-style, nutrition and gut-brain health support
• Sleep, stress, and nervous system optimization
• Trauma-informed psychotherapy and mindfulness-based interventions
Healing doesn’t happen in isolation, it’s the product of a well-supported system working in harmony.
What to Expect at Head Well
Each patient’s path begins with a comprehensive assessment that explores the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of wellness. Together, we craft a precision treatment plan that may include Spravato®, KAP, or both, depending on your goals and needs.
During treatment, you’ll experience a blend of medical expertise and compassionate support. Our team guides you with support through preparation, dosing, integration, and follow-up.
FAQ
Is Spravato® the same as ketamine?
Spravato® contains esketamine, a specific form of the ketamine molecule, and is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. KAP uses racemic ketamine, often delivered in a psychotherapeutic setting.
How quickly does it work?
Response varies from person to person. Some patients may notice changes earlier in treatment, while others may need multiple treatments before they and their clinician can assess whether the treatment is helping.
Your care team will monitor your response and discuss how treatment is progressing.
Is ketamine therapy safe?
Ketamine and Spravato® have known risks and are not appropriate for everyone. Screening and medical supervision are used to determine whether treatment may be appropriate for an individual and to monitor for potential adverse effects.
Spravato® is administered in a certified healthcare setting under its required REMS program. Ketamine treatment at Head Well is also provided in a supervised clinical environment.
Wellness Is Within
Hope is not lost. Whether you’ve struggled with depression that hasn’t responded to medication, or you’re seeking deeper emotional healing, Head Well Integrative Psychiatry & Wellness offers evidence-informed, compassionate care designed to help you reconnect with your mind, your body, and your purpose.
Learn more about Spravato® and ketamine-assisted psychotherapy and whether either may be appropriate for you.
👉 Schedule your consultation today. Wellness is within.