Interventional Psychiatry · Gilbert, AZ

Spravato (Esketamine) Treatment

REMS-Certified Spravato ProviderFDA Risk Evaluation & Mitigation Strategy program

A different approach to treating depression — FDA-approved esketamine nasal spray for patients who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressants. Covered by most major insurance plans.

Check If You Qualify
What makes it different

Relief in hours, not weeks

Unlike traditional antidepressants that take 4–6 weeks, Spravato targets the NMDA receptor for rapid symptom relief.

2-hour monitored sessionIn-office with REMS supervision
Insurance coveredWe handle prior authorization in-house
Self-administered nasal sprayUnder clinical supervision
2019
FDA Approved
Hours
To First Relief
2 hrs
Monitored Observation
REMS
Certified Clinic
A different approach

Why Spravato is a breakthrough for treatment-resistant depression

Conventional antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs) work on the serotonin system and typically require 4–6 weeks to show any effect. Spravato works through a completely different mechanism — the NMDA receptor — which allows it to provide relief within hours to days.

This is why so many patients notice a difference after their very first session. It represents a genuine breakthrough for patients who have spent years cycling through medications without meaningful relief.

How it works

Esketamine rapidly increases glutamate activity, which helps restore the neural connections that depression has weakened. Where SSRIs slowly adjust serotonin over weeks, esketamine reopens plasticity in the brain circuits most affected by depression.

Our role is to deliver this treatment in the safest possible setting — REMS-certified, physician-supervised, with full 2-hour post-dose monitoring in a calm, private environment.

What to Expect During a Spravato Session

Every session follows the same 4-step rhythm — no surprises, and our clinical team is with you throughout.

01

Arrive at Our Office

Check in at our Gilbert clinic. Our team confirms your vitals and ensures you’re ready. Arrange a ride home in advance.

02

Self-Administer Nasal Spray

Under clinical supervision, you self-administer the Spravato nasal spray. The process takes just a few minutes.

03

2-Hour Monitored Observation

Relax in a comfortable, private setting while our team monitors you for the required 2-hour observation period.

04

Head Home with Your Ride

Once cleared by our team, you leave with your pre-arranged ride. Do not drive or operate machinery for the rest of the day.

Who Is Spravato For?

Spravato is specifically designed for patients who meet certain clinical criteria. You may be a candidate if you identify with any of the following.

Failed 2+ Antidepressants

You’ve tried at least two different antidepressant medications at adequate doses without sufficient improvement.

Treatment-Resistant Depression

Your depression has not responded adequately to standard treatment approaches and you need a different mechanism of action.

MDD with Suicidal Ideation

Spravato is also approved for major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts, where rapid symptom relief is critical.

Seeking FDA-Approved Options

You want a rigorously tested, FDA-approved treatment rather than off-label alternatives — with the assurance of insurance coverage.

Insurance & coverage

Spravato Is Covered by Most Insurance Plans

Because Spravato is FDA-approved, it is covered by most major commercial insurance plans and Medicare when medical criteria are met. This sets it apart from many other advanced treatment options that require cash-pay.

Our team handles the entire prior authorization process in-house so you can focus on your treatment, not paperwork. We verify your benefits and let you know your coverage details before your first session.

Aetna
Cigna
Medicare
BCBS
Tricare
Triwest
United Health Care
& more — we verify before scheduling

Spravato vs. IV Ketamine

Both treatments target similar pathways, but they differ in important ways. Here’s how they compare.

 
Spravato (Esketamine)
IV Ketamine
FDA Status
FDA-approved (2019)
Off-label use
Delivery
Nasal spray, self-administered
Intravenous infusion
Setting
REMS-certified clinic (in-office)
Physician-supervised clinic
Monitoring
Required 2 hours post-dose
45–60 minute session
Coverage
Insurance covered (most plans)
Typically self-pay
Indication
Treatment-resistant MDD; MDD with SI
Depression, anxiety, PTSD
Learn about IV Ketamine →

Frequently Asked Questions About Spravato

Common questions from patients starting or considering Spravato.

Is Spravato covered by insurance?
Yes. Spravato is FDA-approved and covered by most major commercial insurance plans and Medicare when you meet the clinical criteria, which typically means you’ve tried at least two antidepressants without adequate response. We handle all prior authorizations in-house.
What are the common side effects?
The most common side effects during and shortly after treatment include dissociation (feeling disconnected), dizziness, nausea, sedation, and increased blood pressure. These effects are temporary and monitored by our clinical team throughout the 2-hour observation period.
How quickly will I feel results?
Many patients notice improvement within hours to days after their first session, though individual responses vary. This is a significant advantage over traditional antidepressants, which typically take 4–6 weeks to show benefit.
Can I drive home after a session?
No. You must not drive or operate heavy machinery for the rest of the day after your Spravato session. Please arrange a ride home before your appointment. This is a REMS requirement and essential for safety.
What is the treatment schedule?
The standard Spravato treatment schedule begins with twice-weekly sessions for the first month, then transitions to weekly sessions, and eventually moves to every 1–2 weeks for maintenance. Your provider will tailor the schedule to your response.
Spravato vs regular ketamine — what’s the difference?
Spravato (esketamine) is a specific form of ketamine that has been FDA-approved as a nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine is used off-label and administered intravenously. The key distinction is FDA approval and insurance coverage.
Do I need a referral to start?
A referral is not always required, but you will need an evaluation to determine if you meet the clinical criteria for Spravato. This includes a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with acute suicidal ideation.

Administered by REMS-Certified Providers

Every Spravato session is administered in-office by our REMS-certified clinical team, with the full 2-hour post-dose monitoring required by FDA. Our providers handle all prior authorizations and coordinate your care from first visit to treatment completion.

REMS Certified Clinic
Full 2-Hour Monitoring
Prior Auth Handled In-House

Find Out If Spravato Is Right for You

Our team will verify your insurance, handle prior authorizations, and guide you through every step. Schedule a consultation today.

Request a Consultation (480) 536-9473