If you’ve been struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to standard medications, you may be wondering if Spravato (esketamine) could be the right treatment for you.
Approved by the FDA in 2019, Spravato is the first nasal spray medication for treatment-resistant depression (TRD). It is only available under the supervision of a certified provider in a clinical setting.
At Being Health in New York City, we specialize in interventional treatments for depression, including Spravato Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering whether it might be a fit for you.
What is Spravato?
Spravato (esketamine) is a prescription nasal spray derived from ketamine, a medicine long studied for its rapid antidepressant effects. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks to work, Spravato has been shown in clinical studies to provide rapid improvement in depressive symptoms for some patients—often within the first few treatments.
Where You Can (and Can’t) Get Spravato
Because of its potential for dissociation and other side effects, Spravato can only be administered in a certified clinic like Being Health.
At Being Health, Spravato® treatments are always provided in a safe, supportive environment. Patients are monitored by trained providers throughout each session—typically for at least two hours—to ensure comfort and safety before leaving the clinic.
Who is Spravato For?
Spravato is approved for adults who meet either of the following criteria:
- Treatment-resistant depression (TRD): Patients who haven’t found relief after trying at least two different antidepressants.
- Major depressive disorder with acute suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
At Being Health, an interventional psychiatry consultation is the first step for anyone considering Spravato (esketamine) treatments for depression. A Being Health psychiatrist will assess your symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, as well as your past mental health treatments, including medication and therapy to determine whether Spravato is appropriate.
What to Expect During Spravato Treatment
Spravato treatment at Being Health is structured and guided by a clinical team to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
- Check-in: Patients arrive at our downtown NYC clinic and are guided to a comfortable treatment room.
- Dosing: Spravato is self-administered under clinical supervision using a nasal spray.
- Personalized Comfort: To support relaxation, patients may use a blanket, eye mask, or an immersive Wavepaths audio experience during their session.
- Monitoring: For about two hours, patients rest in the treatment room while our clinicians monitor vitals and overall wellbeing.
- Recovery: After the session, patients leave with a designated driver (you cannot drive the rest of the day).
Spravato Treatment Schedule
A typical Spravato treatment plan looks like this:
- Weeks 1–4 | Induction: Two visits per week
- Weeks 5–8 | Optimization: One visit per week
- Week 9 and beyond | Ongoing Maintenance: Once every 1–2 weeks for maintenance, depending on individual needs
This protocol ensures that patients receive enough exposure to achieve symptom relief and then shift into a sustainable maintenance plan.
Side Effects and Safety
The most common side effects of Spravato include:
- Dissociation (feeling “disconnected” or dreamy)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Sleepiness
These typically resolve within hours, and the controlled clinic setting ensures that patients remain safe and supported throughout their session. See important safety information here.
At Being Health, we emphasize gold-standard safety protocols including continuous monitoring, a highly trained clinical team, and a calm environment designed for healing.
Insurance and Cost
Many insurance plans including Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare, cover Spravato treatment in NYC, though prior authorization is often required. Our care team works directly with patients and insurers to streamline approvals and minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Some patients may qualify for the Spravato® withMe program, which provides rebates to help lower eligible out-of-pocket costs. Depending on your insurance coverage and deductible, this support can make treatment more affordable—bringing relief within closer reach.
Why Choose Being Health for Spravato in NYC?
- Expertise: Board-certified psychiatrists and clinicians with deep experience in interventional psychiatry.
- Comprehensive Care: In addition to Spravato, we offer psychiatry, psychotherapy, ketamine therapy, functional medicine, acupuncture, and nutrition services.
- Patient-Centered Environment: A supportive, calming setting that prioritizes safety and comfort.
Being Health is dedicated to setting the gold standard for Spravato treatment in New York City.
How can I get started with Spravato Treatment?
- Book an Interventional Psychiatry Consultation: Schedule a consultation with a Being Health psychiatrist and complete our digital intake forms.
- Meet with a Being Health psychiatrist: Meet with one of our licensed psychiatrists for a 60-minute evaluation to understand your history and see if Spravato could be a fit for you.
- Begin your healing journey: If it is determined that Spravato is a safe and appropriate option for you, we will develop your treatment plan.
For more personalized answers and to learn if Spravato is right for you, schedule a consultation with Being Health today or give us a call at 888-668-7600.
