Expanding Depression Care at Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness with Spravato®
- Veronica Doran
- 1 hour ago
- 3 min read
Living with depression can feel overwhelming, especially when traditional treatments don’t bring the relief you hoped for. For individuals experiencing treatment-resistant depression, the cycle of trying medication after medication can be discouraging and emotionally exhausting. At Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, expanding access to innovative, evidence-based care is a priority, which is why Spravato® (esketamine) is now offered as part of a comprehensive approach to depression treatment.
Spravato represents a significant advancement in mental health care, providing a new option for adults whose depression has not improved with standard antidepressants. Administered safely in-clinic under medical supervision, this FDA-approved nasal spray offers renewed hope for patients seeking meaningful change.
What Is Spravato®?
Spravato® is the only FDA-approved nasal spray specifically indicated for adults with treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants that primarily target serotonin or norepinephrine, Spravato works differently, allowing some patients to experience symptom improvement more quickly. It may be used with or without an oral antidepressant, depending on a patient’s individualized treatment plan.
Because Spravato contains esketamine, it is only available through certified clinics like Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, where treatment can be carefully monitored to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
Personalized, Supervised Care at Every Step
At Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness, Spravato treatment is never a one-size-fits-all solution. Each patient begins with a comprehensive consultation to determine eligibility, review medical history, and discuss expectations. This personalized evaluation ensures Spravato is an appropriate and safe option before treatment begins.
Treatment sessions take place in the clinic, where patients self-administer the nasal spray under direct provider supervision. Following administration, patients remain on site for at least two hours of observation to monitor side effects and overall response. Due to temporary changes in alertness, patients must arrange for a trusted adult to drive them home after each visit.
This structured, guided approach allows patients to feel supported and informed throughout every phase of care.
A Thoughtful, Ongoing Treatment Plan
Spravato treatment typically begins with an induction phase of twice-weekly visits for four weeks. After that, frequency usually shifts to weekly sessions and later to once every one or two weeks, depending on how the patient responds. Providers continuously assess progress and adjust the plan to maintain safety and long-term effectiveness.
Some patients notice improvements within the first 24 hours, while others may require several weeks to fully evaluate results. Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness emphasizes realistic expectations, transparency, and open communication throughout the process.
Comprehensive Mental Health Care Beyond Medication
While Spravato is an important addition to available treatment options, Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness remains committed to a holistic approach to mental health care. Medication management is only one component of treatment. The practice focuses on building strong support systems, offering compassionate guidance, and integrating care into the broader context of each patient’s mental wellness journey.
Patients also benefit from streamlined scheduling, simplified prescription refills, and clear communication at every step. From discussing potential side effects to reviewing outcomes and dosage, the team prioritizes total transparency so patients can make confident, informed decisions about their care.
Addressing Common Questions and Concerns
Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness understands that starting a new treatment can raise important questions. Many insurance plans do provide coverage for Spravato, and the team assists patients with benefit verification and payment options. Common side effects such as dizziness, dissociation, nausea, or sleepiness typically occur shortly after treatment and resolve the same day. Careful in-clinic monitoring ensures these effects are managed safely.
Spravato is not appropriate for everyone. Certain medical conditions, including uncontrolled high blood pressure or a history of brain bleeding, may prevent eligibility. That’s why thorough screening and ongoing assessment are central to the program.
A New Path Forward
Depression can make it hard to feel like yourself but innovative treatments like Spravato are opening new doors for those who haven’t found relief through traditional methods. By expanding depression care with Spravato, Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness continues its mission to provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment tailored to each individual’s needs.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to standard therapies, now may be the time to explore new options. Reach out to Fairfax Mental Health & Wellness to speak with an expert, learn more about Spravato, and take the next step toward feeling more like yourself again.
Get started today, support is here when you’re ready.