Spravato Treatment Specialist in Boynton Beach, FL

Spravato is the brand name for esketamine, which is a medication closely related to ketamine but developed specifically for controlled, clinical use. Rather than being taken in pill form like most antidepressants, it’s administered as a nasal spray in a medical setting under observation. What sets it apart from other treatments is how it targets glutamate, one of the brain’s key neurotransmitters, rather than serotonin or dopamine. That shift in approach is part of what allows it to work more rapidly for some individuals, especially those who’ve tried multiple antidepressants with little to no relief.

While the FDA originally approved Spravato for treatment-resistant depression, many patients dealing with intense anxiety or depression linked to trauma or chronic stress have also reported progress with the treatment. The medication can interrupt patterns of thought that have become stuck or distorted, giving the brain a window to form new, healthier pathways. That change, paired with therapy or follow-up care, often becomes the turning point for individuals who have not been able to achieve meaningful change with traditional treatments.

The specialists at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches generally reserve this treatment for patients whose symptoms have continued despite trying other approaches. It’s not a replacement for talk therapy or ongoing medication management, but it can be used in combination with both. Individuals receiving Spravato typically stay at the clinic for a period after each dose to be monitored. That kind of oversight allows care teams to track how the body responds, adjust as needed, and offer support if any side effects come up during or after treatment.

For those who have been cycling through antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications without lasting results, Spravato may be beneficial. Before a patient is considered a candidate, providers often look into how many medications have already been tried, whether therapy has been part of the plan, and how severe or disruptive the symptoms have become. It tends to be reserved for individuals whose depression or anxiety hasn’t responded to other treatments or has only improved slightly, despite sustained efforts.

There are also some practical considerations. Because of the way Spravato is administered, the patient needs to come into the clinic regularly and remain under observation after each dose. That structure isn’t always workable for everyone, and certain medical conditions or substance use concerns may disqualify someone from starting the protocol. A full evaluation, including medical history, mental health background, and previous medication trials, is usually the first step in deciding whether this route is a safe and appropriate option.

The specialists at Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches typically walk through the entire process with each patient first, outlining what to expect and answering any questions before treatment begins. If Spravato does seem like the right next step, the individual’s progress is closely monitored throughout care. Adjustments can be made depending on how well the patient tolerates the treatment and whether the expected relief is taking hold.

While results vary, many individuals who begin Spravato treatment after years of limited improvement have seen their symptoms improve. Some experience relief within the first few sessions, while others notice more gradual changes. The most promising results tend to occur when the treatment is paired with other ongoing supports, such as therapy or medication management.

Clinical studies have shown that Spravato can significantly reduce symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression, and in many cases, it helps prevent relapse when used as part of a longer-term strategy. Some studies have reported a success rate as high as 88%. However, like any mental health treatment, the results aren’t universal. Some individuals find that their symptoms improve dramatically, while others may see a more modest shift.

What helps guide that process is careful tracking from the clinical team and a willingness to adapt the approach based on how the patient is responding. If someone who was previously unable to work, socialize, or manage everyday stressors begins to function more consistently again, that often signals meaningful improvement.

The timeline for Spravato treatment usually begins with a more intensive first phase. Patients often come in twice per week for the first month, with each session involving monitoring and a set period of observation after the medication is administered. This phase is designed to build a base of relief and track how the body responds to the treatment early on. Depending on how well it’s tolerated and whether symptoms start to lift, the frequency of visits may decrease after the initial few weeks.

In the second phase, visits might be reduced to once per week and later spaced out even further if the patient remains stable. Some continue maintenance doses once every two to four weeks, while others complete the initial course and shift to another form of support. There’s no fixed timeline for everyone, and it often depends on how well the symptoms are controlled and whether other therapies are in place. The main goal is to find a pace that sustains progress without overreliance.

At the Spravato treatment clinic, the overall duration is guided by how each patient feels over time. Ongoing assessments help determine when to taper, when to maintain, or when to explore alternative routes. Because the treatment is always given under clinical supervision, any changes in symptoms or side effects are spotted early, and the approach is adjusted accordingly. For many, it becomes a flexible part of a larger plan to restore stability and function.

At Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches, we specialize in offering Spravato treatment for those with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Our team is here to provide personalized care and support throughout your treatment journey. For more information, contact us today or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 10301 Hagen Ranch Rd Suite D720, Boynton Beach, FL 33437. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Lake Worth Beach FL, Palm Beach FL, Ocean Ridge FL, and surrounding areas.