Esketamine for depression is an FDA-approved treatment option designed for adults diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) who have not responded to traditional antidepressant medications. At SNBCare, our licensed behavioral health professionals provide evidence-informed and clinically supervised esketamine therapy to support adults in their journey toward improved mental well-being.
Understanding Esketamine and How It Works
Esketamine, the active ingredient in Spravato®, is a nasal spray form of medication derived from ketamine. Unlike standard antidepressants that primarily act on serotonin or norepinephrine, esketamine influences the brain’s glutamate system, helping restore connections between nerve cells involved in mood regulation. When administered under clinical supervision, it can provide relief for some individuals whose depression symptoms have persisted despite trials of oral antidepressants.
At SNBCare, esketamine treatment is never a first-line option. It is recommended only after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation determines that it is clinically appropriate and safe for the individual.
Who Might Benefit from Esketamine Treatment
Esketamine may be considered for adults who meet criteria for treatment-resistant depression, meaning they have tried at least two different antidepressant medications without sufficient improvement. This therapy is intended for those experiencing persistent symptoms such as low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, or hopelessness that significantly interfere with daily functioning.
Our clinicians carefully evaluate each patient’s medical and psychiatric history, current medications, and treatment goals before determining eligibility. The decision to begin esketamine treatment is collaborative, between the provider and patient, to ensure informed, ethical, and safe care.
How Esketamine for Depression Is Administered
At SNBCare, esketamine is administered exclusively in our Natick, Massachusetts office under direct supervision by trained medical staff. The treatment follows a strict protocol approved under the REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program, as required by the FDA.
During each session, the patient self-administers the esketamine nasal spray while a provider monitors for comfort and safety throughout the visit. After administration, the patient remains on-site for a period of observation. Because of potential temporary side effects such as dizziness or dissociation, patients must arrange for transportation home after treatment.
Esketamine therapy is typically paired with an oral antidepressant to support ongoing symptom management and maximize the benefits of treatment.
What to Expect During Treatment
The course of esketamine therapy is individualized. Initial sessions are more frequent, usually twice weekly, and then gradually reduced as symptoms improve and stability increases. Many patients describe the environment at SNBCare as calm, professional, and supportive, allowing them to focus on their recovery with confidence.
Throughout treatment, SNBCare providers continuously monitor progress, side effects, and mood changes to adjust the care plan as needed. Every treatment decision is based on ongoing clinical assessment and the patient’s comfort level.
Why Choose SNBCare for Esketamine Treatment
SNBCare is an established outpatient behavioral health practice offering both in-person and telemedicine psychiatric care for adults. While esketamine treatment must be completed in person, our telehealth services support follow-up visits, medication management, and psychotherapy for ongoing care.
Our Natick office provides a safe and structured environment for esketamine administration under experienced supervision.
When you choose SNBCare, you receive:
• Access to clinicians trained and certified in REMS-compliant esketamine administration.
• A personalized, evidence-based treatment plan developed through comprehensive evaluation.
• A respectful, stigma-free setting focused on your overall mental wellness.
• Integration with therapy, medication management, and other supportive behavioral health services.
SNBCare’s approach is never generalized. Instead, each patient receives care that reflects their unique experience, medical history, and goals for recovery.
The Importance of Professional Oversight
Because esketamine is a controlled prescription medication, it can only be administered in certified clinical settings. SNBCare follows all federal and state regulations to ensure patient safety. The decision to begin or continue esketamine therapy is always made collaboratively and depends on clinical appropriateness, provider availability, and the individual’s treatment response.
Taking the First Step Toward Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, reaching out for professional help can be a turning point. The first step begins with a psychiatry appointment, where a licensed provider can assess your history and discuss whether esketamine might be suitable for your situation.
At SNBCare, we are committed to helping adults in Massachusetts and Rhode Island access ethical, compassionate, and evidence-informed care. Our goal is to guide each individual toward improved mood stability, emotional resilience, and renewed quality of life through clinically supported treatment options.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes and is sponsored by SNBCare, a licensed behavioral health provider serving adults physically located in Massachusetts or Rhode Island at the time of their appointment. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Esketamine (Spravato®) is a regulated, prescription-only medication available exclusively through REMS-certified programs and administered in person at SNBCare’s Natick, MA office under licensed provider supervision.