Depression Treatment

Depression is more than feeling sad or having a bad day. If you've experienced persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, low energy, feelings of hopelessness, or other symptoms that last for two weeks or longer, it may be time to schedule a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

Depression is a complex medical condition that can result from a combination of genetics, brain chemistry, medical conditions, stressful life events, trauma, and environmental factors. Every person's experience is unique, which is why treatment should be individualized.

Yes. While medication can be an effective treatment for many people, it is not the only option. Depending on your diagnosis, symptom severity, medical history, and personal preferences, treatment may include psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato® (esketamine), IV ketamine therapy, or a combination of approaches. During your comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, your provider will recommend an individualized treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals.m description

Treatment depends on the individual and may include medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle modifications, or advanced treatment options such as Spravato®, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), or IV ketamine therapy when clinically appropriate.

Depression treatment is individualized, and the timeline varies from person to person. Some patients begin noticing improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment, while others may require adjustments to their treatment plan or additional therapies. Regular follow-up appointments allow your provider to monitor your progress, assess your response, and make recommendations to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Your first appointment is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation designed to understand your symptoms, establish an accurate diagnosis, and develop a personalized treatment plan. During your visit, your provider will discuss your current concerns, psychiatric and medical history, previous treatments, medications, family history, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals. Standardized screening questionnaires may also be completed when appropriate to better evaluate depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, or other mental health conditions.

At the end of your evaluation, your provider will review your diagnosis, answer your questions, discuss treatment recommendations, and, when appropriate, begin medication management or recommend additional treatment options such as psychotherapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Spravato®, or IV ketamine therapy.

Treatment-resistant depression generally refers to depression that has not improved after appropriate trials of at least two antidepressant medications. If traditional treatments have not provided adequate relief, additional evidence-based options such as Spravato®, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), or IV ketamine therapy may be considered following a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

Most commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and Ohio Medicaid cover comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and many evidence-based mental health services. Coverage for advanced treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Spravato® may require prior authorization and medical necessity criteria. IV ketamine therapy for psychiatric conditions is typically a self-pay service. Before treatment begins, our team will verify your benefits, explain your expected coverage and out-of-pocket costs, and assist with the prior authorization process whenever required.

Some individuals continue to experience symptoms despite trying multiple antidepressant medications. This is sometimes referred to as treatment-resistant depression. A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation can help determine whether advanced treatment options may be appropriate.

If depression is interfering with your work, relationships, school, or daily activities—or if you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide—it's important to seek professional help as soon as possible. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. You can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Most patients do not need a referral to schedule an appointment, although some insurance plans may require one. Our office can help verify your insurance benefits before your first visit.