If you’ve been living with depression that hasn’t improved with traditional medications, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. At New Directions Mental Health, we offer innovative and effective treatments like Spravato® treatment (esketamine) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to help our clients find relief. Each of these approaches provides a different path forward, and understanding the difference between esketamine and TMS therapy can help you make a choice that feels right for your needs.

We provide individualized support and guidance for clients across Pennsylvania. Whether you’re exploring new treatments or pairing them with counseling for depression, our team will help you find what works best for you.

What to know about Spravato® treatment

Spravato® is an esketamine nasal spray used to treat adults with treatment-resistant depression. It’s FDA-approved and known for its fast-acting relief—some clients report improvement within hours of their first session. Unlike traditional medications that work slowly over time, Spravato® directly targets brain areas involved in mood regulation.

This treatment is administered in a clinic setting under close supervision from medical professionals. Because it can cause side effects like dizziness or fatigue, clients stay for a monitoring period after each session to prioritize their safety and comfort.

Spravato® treatment may be a good option if:

• You’ve tried two or more oral antidepressants without success
• You’re looking for a treatment that works quickly
• You’re comfortable with in-person treatment sessions

Innovative treatment options like Spravato® provide hope for people struggling with treatment-resistant depression. By targeting different receptors in the brain than traditional antidepressants, it offers a new approach to managing symptoms and improving overall mental health.

What to expect from TMS therapy

TMS therapy is a non-medication, non-invasive treatment for depression. New Directions Mental Health uses NeuroStar® TMS, which delivers gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain that are underactive in people experiencing depression. TMS is FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder and is also used to treat anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Clients are fully awake during each session and can return to their daily routines afterward. TMS therapy doesn’t involve medication or anesthesia and is often well tolerated. The most frequently reported side effects include mild discomfort and headaches at the treatment site.

TMS therapy may be the right fit if:

• You’re sensitive to medication or prefer not to use it
• You want a non-invasive treatment option
• You’re looking for long-lasting relief from depression symptoms

NeuroStar TMS therapy has been clinically proven as an effective treatment option for depression. According to NeuroStar, 83% of patients who completed NeuroStar treatment experienced significant relief from depression, with 62% achieving complete remission of their symptoms.

Comparing esketamine vs. TMS therapy

When it comes to esketamine vs. TMS therapy, both options are highly effective—but they work differently and fit different lifestyles and preferences.

Esketamine (Spravato®) is a fast-acting medication taken by nasal spray and requires staying in the clinic for observation after each session. It’s paired with an oral antidepressant and closely monitored by medical staff.

TMS therapy, on the other hand, doesn’t require medication and is often appealing to those who want to avoid potential side effects. It uses external stimulation to re-activate mood-regulating areas of the brain and involves more frequent sessions over several weeks.

At New Directions Mental Health, we offer NeuroStar TMS therapy as an effective addition to treatment plans for adolescents aged 15–21 struggling with treatment-resistant depression. This innovative therapy provides a valuable option for young people seeking relief and a path toward improved mental health. We understand that one solution doesn’t fit everyone. That’s why we offer both treatment options and counseling for depression, providing personalized and collaborative care to each client.

The value of counseling for depression and your treatment plan

Interventional treatments like Spravato® and TMS can help alleviate symptoms, but true emotional healing requires time, connection, and support. That’s why counseling for depression is an essential part of our whole-person care approach. Therapy gives you space to process your experiences, learn coping skills, and strengthen your mental well-being with the guidance of a trusted professional. Many clients benefit from combining therapy with either TMS or Spravato® treatment for a more complete approach to healing.

Explore your options for depression relief: Call New Directions Mental Health today

Deciding between esketamine vs. TMS therapy can feel like a big decision—but you don’t have to make it alone. Whether you’re just starting your mental health journey or looking to try something new, the New Directions Mental Health team is here to support you. We’ll help you explore your options, answer your questions, and find the care that aligns with your goals. New Directions Mental Health is here to help you manage your mental health. Give us a call today at 724.374.7414 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

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