Please note that our office will be closed September 2nd in honor of Labor Day.
Ketamine Treatment in Eugene
Explore Ketamine Therapy in Our Eugene Clinic
If traditional treatments for depression—such as medication and talk therapy—haven’t been effective for you, Head Well Integrative Psychiatry & Wellness offers an alternative: ketamine therapy. Led by April Dvorak, PMHNP-BC, our team specializes in this innovative treatment, which includes Spravato (esketamine) and IV Ketamine infusions delivered with other personalized mental health care strategies.
We are excited now to be able to offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, available exclusively at our Eugene location.
Discovering New Horizons in Mental Health Treatment
Understanding Ketamine Therapy
Ketamine, a medication initially used for anesthesia, has shown promise at sub-anesthetic doses for treating psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD, particularly those resistant to standard treatments.
How Ketamine Works
Ketamine works differently than conventional antidepressants. By targeting glutamate, the most abundant neurotransmitter in the brain, ketamine promotes the growth of new neural connections and helps the brain to “rewire” itself. This unique mechanism of action allows ketamine to provide fast-acting relief from symptoms of depression and anxiety, often within hours of treatment. The promotion of neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to form new neural connections, is another key benefit, offering the possibility of long-term improvement in mental health conditions when combined with appropriate therapeutic and behavioral interventions.
Personalized Treatment Options
We understand that every patient is different, which is why we offer a variety of ketamine administration methods to suit your preferences and needs:
- Intravenous (IV) Ketamine: administered over a 45-60 minute continuous infusion under-direct medical supervision in our office.
- Spravato (esketamine): self-administered as a nasal under direct medical supervision in our office. Spravato is an FDA-approved treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression (MDD with inadequate response to at least 2 oral antidepressants of adequate dose and duration) and Major Depression with suicidality.
For both, our experienced medical professionals will guide you through the process and monitor your progress to ensure your safety and comfort throughout your treatment journey.
Insurance Coverage for Esketamine (Spravato)
Esketamine (Spravato) is an intranasal version of specific configuration of the ketamine molecule that is administered as a nasal spray in medical settings. pravato received an FDA indication for treatment resistant depression in 2019, helping to establish the role of ketamine in managing psychiatric conditions. Clients must be observed for at least 2 hours following administration and cannot drive themselves home from treatments. S
Though FDA approved, insurance coverage can be limiting, as each insurer as specific criteria for approval (including specific requirements for past medication trials and failure of alternative treatments like psychotherapy).
Our Team can review your history to help you determine if Spravato might be covered, and if appropriate, will submit any required prior authorizations or required documentation on your behalf.
Ketamine Q&A
Currently, we provide intravenous (IV) ketamine and Spravato treatments at our Eugene clinic.
A Ketamine Assisted Therapy (KAP) Preparation session will be scheduled prior to starting treatment, followed by an Integration session to help clients optimize treatment benefits. Additional sessions may be recommended and Experience Sessions (during Spravato or Ketamine Infusions) are available.
Given its distinct properties and the potential for side effects such as dissociation or elevated blood pressure, Spravato and ketamine therapy are administered under close supervision in our clinic. It’s essential for patients to undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine if Spravato or ketamine therapy would be suitable options for their specific condition
We encourage patients to use this time to engage in meaningful lifestyle changes and engagement in therapy outside of sessions during the treatment period.
After the treatment, patients are encouraged to reflect and journal on the experience.
Patients receiving Spravato must be observed for 2 hours after administration. For other ketamine treatments, patients are monitored for until the medication experience has ended, and the patient can safely leave.
Patients must be driven home from appointments with someone trusted. Patients cannot drive themselves home or take a Uber/Lyft.
A provider is on-site during the whole process, though not in the room with the person being treated. The provider is available if the patients needs anything or becomes confused or anxious.
*Results may vary from person to person.
Spravato or Ketamine therapy is not recommended for all patients or conditions. Additionally, there are several medical and psychiatric contraindications for therapy including pregnancy, unstable high blood pressure or cardiac issues, and acute mania and/or psychosis. Patients must have a support person for transportation and access to our clinic in Eugene.
Before Spravato or ketamine therapy begins, the Head Well team will perform an initial consultation and mental health evaluation. They work with you to design a treatment plan for your mental health needs and goals. There is no guarantee that Ketamine or Spravato will be recommended as a part of your treatment plan.
We emphasize a collaborative approach, ensuring that each patient’s care is coordinated effectively.
For Current Patients: If you are currently under our care and interested in ketamine therapy, please reach out to discuss your options and potential next steps.
For New Patients: Please complete an inquiry through our website or call. You will be asked to complete a screener to determine if you might be a good fit. Then, we will schedule an initial consultation to evaluate your suitability for Spravato or ketamine therapy and discuss the potential benefits and considerations.
After the consultation, we would assist with determining insurance coverage and financial concerns before scheduling treatment.
It’s important for patients to understand that ketamine therapy is typically not covered by health insurance plans, given its designation for conditions often considered beyond conventional treatment scopes. Spravato (esketamine) may be covered by your insurance if certain criteria are met (you can try contacting your insurance or our clinic can assist at the time of consultation).
Other types of ketamine therapy are generally considered non-covered services, and you would be responsible for payment.
Our fee is 600/session and additional fees may occur. We will review fees with you prior to initiating treatment.
Our clinic is committed to transparency regarding the costs associated with ketamine treatment, and we offer detailed information and support in navigating these financial considerations.
For more information on ketamine therapy, including the referral process and financial considerations, please contact our clinic. Our team is here to assist you through each step of the process, ensuring you have the support and information needed to make informed decisions about your mental health care.