When Antidepressants Aren’t Enough
For many people, depression doesn’t respond fully to traditional antidepressants. This form—known as treatment-resistant depression—can leave individuals feeling hopeless even after trying multiple medications and therapy approaches.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there is hope. At Soma Therapy in Wichita, Kansas, we offer Spravato® (esketamine), a breakthrough treatment that works differently from standard antidepressants and can bring relief in a matter of hours to days rather than weeks.
What Is Spravato®?
Spravato® is an FDA-approved nasal spray form of esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Unlike SSRIs or SNRIs that target serotonin or norepinephrine, Spravato® acts on the glutamate system in the brain—helping to rapidly restore communication between brain cells and promote neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new, healthy connections.
This unique mechanism can help lift depression, ease suicidal thoughts, and offer renewed motivation and clarity—especially when other medications haven’t worked.
How Spravato® Works in the Brain
When taken under medical supervision, Spravato® activates NMDA receptors and increases the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This helps “rewire” the brain’s emotional circuits, often leading to:
- A reduction in depression symptoms within 24–72 hours
- Improved energy, motivation, and focus
- Greater openness to therapy and emotional processing
- A decrease in suicidal thoughts and emotional numbness
Many clients describe feeling like “the fog has lifted” or “a window finally opened” after years of limited progress.
What to Expect at Soma Therapy in Wichita
At Soma Therapy, we are one of Wichita’s REMS-certified Spravato® treatment centers. This means our medical and clinical teams are specifically trained and authorized to administer Spravato® safely and effectively.
Here’s what your experience typically looks like:
- Consultation and Screening
You’ll meet with one of our psychiatric providers to discuss your history, current medications, and overall wellness. If Spravato® is a good fit, we’ll handle all insurance coordination for you. - Treatment Sessions
Spravato® is self-administered under supervision in our calming, private treatment room. Sessions last about two hours, during which you’ll relax in a comfortable recliner while our team monitors your wellbeing. - Recovery and Integration
After each session, you’ll rest until it’s safe to leave. Many clients benefit from pairing Spravato® with therapy or integration sessions to process new insights and maintain gains. - Ongoing Support
Treatments are typically twice per week at first, then taper based on your progress. Our Wichita team will walk beside you every step of the way.
Is Spravato® Right for You?
Spravato® may be appropriate if you:
- Have tried two or more antidepressants without sufficient improvement
- Experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, or lack of motivation
- Struggle with treatment-resistant depression or suicidal thoughts
- Are seeking a safe, medically supervised option beyond traditional medications
Spravato® is approved for adults with major depressive disorder (MDD), including those with acute suicidal ideation or behavior. Your provider will evaluate your specific symptoms, medications, and history before recommending treatment.
Safety and Side Effects
Spravato® must be administered in a certified medical setting because it can cause short-term dissociation or dizziness. Most people describe these sensations as mild and temporary, and our team is present throughout your session to ensure your comfort and safety.
Common side effects can include:
- Mild sedation or feeling “floaty”
- Temporary increase in blood pressure
- Metallic taste or mild nausea
These typically subside within 60–90 minutes, and patients do not drive until the following day.
Insurance and Cost at Soma Therapy
Spravato® is covered by most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Optum, Cigna, and Medicare. Our intake team assists with all prior authorization and billing steps so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.
If you’re unsure about coverage or cost, call our office—we’ll help you navigate your options transparently and compassionately.
Why Wichita Chooses Soma Therapy
At Soma Therapy, we believe healing happens when science meets compassion. Our Spravato® program combines medical excellence, trauma-informed care, and warm, down-to-earth support so you can feel safe exploring new paths to wellness.
Our team of licensed therapists, psychiatric providers, and nurses work collaboratively to ensure you receive holistic care—body, mind, and spirit.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
If you or someone you love has struggled to find relief from depression, Spravato® may offer the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Call or text 316-201-6047 to schedule a consultation at our Wichita Spravato® Clinic.
You deserve to feel whole again—and we’re here to help you get there.