If you’re looking into mental health treatment options in Massachusetts, especially for severe or treatment-resistant depression (TRD), you might have heard about transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy or Spravato® treatment. Both of these advanced interventions offer hope when traditional methods like talk therapy or antidepressants aren’t enough. But how do you know which option might be right for you?
At Northeast Health Services, we specialize in whole-person, customized care. We offer both of these leading treatments at multiple clinics rooted in your local community. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, we can help you find the right approach. Call us at 508.794.8711 today—our friendly team is here to help and happy to answer your questions or book an appointment.
TMS vs Spravato: what to know
Before diving into the differences between these treatments, it helps to understand why they’re becoming more common. More than 21 million adults in the United States experienced a major depressive episode in 2021—and over 30% of those people didn’t respond well to traditional antidepressant medications.1 Treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato® are changing that by offering new hope when other methods don’t work.
Both are evidence-based and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment-resistant depression. However, they differ significantly in how they work, how they are administered, and what to expect during the process.
What is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The goal of TMS is to help improve communication in the parts of the brain that affect mood. It’s an excellent option for people who want to avoid medications or have trouble tolerating them since it doesn’t involve medication, anesthesia, or downtime for recovery.
At Northeast Health Services, we use NeuroStar® TMS, an FDA-approved treatment designed to be effective while minimizing side effects. Sessions typically occur five days a week over several weeks, and clients can return to normal activities immediately after each visit.
What is Spravato?
Spravato® is a nasal spray form of ketamine, a medication derived from ketamine. Spravato® is a pharmacological treatment clinicians must administer under medical supervision in a clinical setting. This is due to its fast-acting nature and potential side effects like dissociation or increased blood pressure.
Doctors typically recommend Spravato® for adults with TRD or those experiencing depressive symptoms accompanied by suicidal thoughts. Usually paired with an oral antidepressant for best results, it quickly relieves symptoms—often within hours of administration.
Northeast Health Services is dedicated to supporting your mental health. If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, we encourage you to reach out for immediate support through your local crisis services by dialing 988, contacting your local emergency services, or visiting your local emergency room.
What are the differences between TMS and Spravato®?
Both options can help people struggling with severe depression, but they are different in many ways:
- How they work: TMS uses a device to gently stimulate the brain from the outside, while Spravato® is a medication given as a nasal spray.
- How quickly they work: Spravato® might bring relief within a few hours or days, while TMS usually takes a few weeks of regular sessions to see the full effects.
- Treatment setting: TMS sessions typically last about 20–40 minutes in a quiet room. Spravato® sessions last at least two hours due to the required monitoring period.
- Side effects: TMS is generally well-tolerated, with possible mild discomfort at the treatment site. Spravato® may cause dizziness, nausea, or dissociation during or after treatment.
- Insurance coverage: Many insurance plans cover both for clients with treatment-resistant depression, but eligibility requirements can vary.
Do you need TMS therapy or Spravato ® treatment?
Every person’s mental health journey is unique. Some clients find that they respond well to one method over another based on their body, their experience with depression, and their comfort level with certain treatment types. TMS could be a good option if you prefer a non-medication approach, have tried antidepressants with little success, or are concerned about the side effects of new medications. Spravato® might be better suited if you need fast-acting relief from severe symptoms or have already tried multiple antidepressants without seeing results.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. Northeast Health Services is dedicated to expanding access to high-quality mental health care in our communities. We’ll work together to figure out the best next steps for you based on your background, needs, and what matters most to you.
How innovative mental health care can help
Whether you’re seeking treatment for severe depression or exploring your options after traditional methods haven’t worked, modern interventional treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation and Spravato® can be life-changing.
As part of the Transformations Care Network (TCN), Northeast Health Services is proud to be involved in local communities. We offer accessible care with the latest tools and technology to transform lives for the better. We proudly provide these innovative services at multiple locations throughout Massachusetts—including Attleboro, Hyannis, Pembroke, Taunton, and Woburn—and more NEHS locations will soon offer them. Highly trained psychiatric providers staff each clinic, collaborating with your entire care team to provide whole-person support. We believe in treating your emotional and physical well-being with empathy and understanding.
Connect with Northeast Health Services and get the proper health care for your needs
Navigating your mental health journey can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to go it alone. Northeast Health Services is here to walk with you. If you’re considering transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy or Spravato® treatment, we’re here to discuss your options and find a plan that works for you.
At NEHS, our priority is helping you take care of your mental health in a way that fits your life. Call today at 508.794.8711 to learn more or schedule an appointment. If you’re ready to take the next step in your mental health journey, click here to reach out to our team of empathetic mental health care experts. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
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