When you begin advanced depression treatment before the New Year, you can expect an initial consultation and evaluation within one to two weeks, followed by a structured treatment protocol that often provides symptom improvement within days to weeks rather than the months required by traditional approaches. Starting in December positions you to enter the new year with therapeutic momentum and improved emotional stability.
The process of beginning treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), SPRAVATO® or IV ketamine therapy involves comprehensive medical evaluation, insurance verification, safety monitoring protocols, and individualized treatment planning that addresses your specific symptoms and treatment history. Understanding what to expect removes uncertainty and helps you prepare mentally and logistically for this important step toward improved mental health.
The Initial Consultation Process
Your first appointment focuses on comprehensive evaluation of your depression history, previous treatment attempts, current symptoms, and treatment goals. Lebanon Valley College Clinical Mental Health research emphasizes the importance of starting treatment before year-end to provide a foundation for new year mental health planning (Lebanon Valley College, 2024).
During this evaluation, our physicians review your medical history, current medications, and any conditions that might affect treatment safety or efficacy. This thorough assessment ensures that advanced treatments like TMS, SPRAVATO® or IV ketamine therapy are appropriate for your specific situation and health profile.
At Oasis Therapeutics, Dr. PK Suchdev, Dr. James Mirazita, and Dr. Santharam Yadati bring combined decades of experience in treating complex, treatment-resistant conditions. As New Hampshire Magazine’s 2025 Top Doctors, they understand how to customize advanced treatment approaches for individual patient needs and circumstances.
The consultation also addresses practical considerations like scheduling preferences, insurance coverage, transportation arrangements, and family support systems. These logistics matter significantly for treatment success, particularly during the busy holiday season when coordination becomes more complex.
Understanding the Treatment Timeline
IV ketamine therapy typically involves sessions scheduled 2 times per week for three weeks initially, with duration and dosing adjusted based on individual response patterns. Some patients experience significant improvement within the first few sessions, while others may require several treatments to achieve optimal benefits. Maintenance schedules are individualized and determined by patient progress after evaluation by the healthcare provider.
SPRAVATO® treatment follows FDA-approved protocols that begin with twice-weekly sessions during the first month, transitioning to weekly sessions, then potentially to bi-weekly maintenance dosing. This graduated approach allows careful monitoring of response and side effects while building sustainable improvement.
TMS therapy follows a structured treatment course that typically begins with daily weekday sessions over the first 4–6 weeks, followed by a gradual tapering phase as symptoms improve. This step-down approach is designed to strengthen neural pathways over time, allowing patients to build and sustain meaningful progress. Many individuals begin noticing improvement within the first two to three weeks, though response timelines vary based on individual neurobiology, symptom severity, and co-occurring conditions.
The National Institute of Mental Health distinguishes between seasonal affective disorder and holiday-related depression, noting different timing and treatment considerations for each condition (NIMH, 2024). This distinction helps guide treatment planning and sets appropriate expectations for symptom improvement timelines.
TMS, SPRAVATO® and IV ketamine require in-office administration with professional monitoring. SPRAVATO® and IV ketamine treatment sessions typically take 2-3 hours total, including preparation, administration, and required observation periods. TMS sessions, while more frequent, typically take approximately 30 minutes total. This time commitment represents an investment in your mental health that often yields rapid returns in terms of symptom relief.
What Happens During Your First Treatment Session
Your initial treatment session begins with vital sign monitoring, review of current symptoms, and final safety checks before medication administration. The clinical team ensures you’re comfortable and prepared for the treatment experience.
IV ketamine infusion involves placement of a small intravenous catheter and gradual administration of medication over 40-60 minutes. Patients often describe the experience as relaxing, with some reporting interesting sensory experiences or altered perceptions that resolve completely as the medication clears.
SPRAVATO® administration involves self-administration of nasal spray under direct medical supervision. The medication takes effect within minutes, and patients remain in comfortable recliners during the observation period. Some people experience mild dissociation or dizziness, which typically resolves within two hours.
TMS treatment sessions are noninvasive and require no medication administration. During your first visit, the clinician identifies the optimal stimulation location and determines your personalized motor threshold—the amount of magnetic energy needed to activate targeted brain regions. You’ll sit comfortably in a treatment chair while brief magnetic pulses are delivered through a small coil placed on your scalp. Most patients describe the sensation as tapping or light pressure, and they can resume normal activities immediately after the session.
Great Falls Clinic Psychiatry research indicates that professional evaluation and treatment timing considerations help distinguish between temporary holiday blues and clinical depression requiring medical intervention (Great Falls Clinic, 2025). This distinction influences treatment approaches and expected outcomes.
Managing Side Effects and Recovery
Common side effects during IV ketamine and SPRAVATO® treatment sessions include mild sedation, dizziness, nausea, or temporary dissociation. These effects occur during the treatment session and observation period, typically resolving completely before patients leave the clinic.
Some patients experience fatigue or mild cognitive changes for several hours after treatment, which is why driving is prohibited until the following day. Planning for transportation and a quiet evening following treatment sessions helps optimize recovery and minimize any discomfort.
The monitoring period following each session allows healthcare providers to assess your response, address any concerns, and ensure complete safety before discharge. This supervised recovery time also provides opportunity to discuss your experience and adjust future treatment protocols if needed.
Most patients find that side effects decrease with subsequent sessions as they become accustomed to the treatment. The temporary nature of side effects contrasts sharply with the often permanent benefits of successful treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
TMS generally has fewer systemic side effects, with the most common being mild scalp discomfort or a tapping sensation at the treatment site, which often diminishes after the first few sessions. Some patients may also experience a brief headache, typically relieved with over-the-counter medication. Because TMS is noninvasive and does not involve sedation, patients can drive themselves and resume normal activities immediately after each session.
Addressing Financial and Insurance Concerns
The cost of advanced depression treatment concerns many patients, particularly during expensive holiday seasons. SPRAVATO® has FDA approval for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation, making it covered by most major insurance plans for qualified patients.
IV ketamine therapy coverage varies by insurance provider and individual policy details. Our team works with patients to verify coverage, explore payment options, and identify resources that make treatment accessible. Many patients find that the rapid improvement in functioning and quality of life justifies the investment in their mental health.
TMS therapy is also widely covered by insurance when criteria for treatment-resistant depression are met, as it is an FDA-cleared, noninvasive neuromodulation treatment. Many plans require documentation of prior medication trials or psychotherapy, but once approved, patients often find TMS to be a cost-effective option because it does not involve medication costs, sedation, or recovery-related expenses. Our team assists with the authorization process to ensure patients understand their benefits and financial responsibilities before starting treatment.
Some insurance plans require pre-authorization or documentation of previous treatment failures before approving advanced therapies. Starting this process in December allows time to complete paperwork requirements and begin treatment before the new year when insurance benefits typically reset.
The financial investment in mental health treatment often yields returns in terms of improved work performance, better relationships, and enhanced overall life satisfaction. Results vary by individual, but many patients report that effective treatment pays for itself through improved functioning and reduced need for other medical interventions.
Overcoming Treatment Hesitation and Fear
Many patients feel nervous about beginning advanced mental health treatments, particularly those involving medications with rapid-acting effects. These concerns are completely normal and addressing them openly with your treatment team helps ensure optimal outcomes.
Some individuals worry about stigma associated with ketamine-based treatments or fear that seeking advanced care means they’ve “failed” at simpler approaches. In reality, treatment-resistant depression affects many people, and seeking appropriate care demonstrates strength and commitment to wellness.
The fear of experiencing altered consciousness during treatment concerns some patients. However, the supervised medical setting, professional monitoring, and temporary nature of any perceptual changes provide safety and reassurance throughout the treatment process.
Family members sometimes express concerns about advanced mental health treatments, particularly during holiday seasons when everyone wants things to feel “normal.” Educating loved ones about treatment benefits and safety protocols often transforms worry into support for your health care decisions.
Building Support Systems for Success
Starting treatment in December allows you to establish therapeutic relationships and treatment routines before facing the potential challenges of a new year. This foundation provides stability and momentum that carries into January and beyond.
Identifying family members or friends who can provide transportation, emotional support, and practical assistance during treatment periods enhances your chances of success. Treatment works best when patients have strong support networks that understand and encourage their commitment to mental health.
Some patients benefit from connecting with others who’ve undergone similar treatments, though this isn’t necessary for success. Online support groups, patient forums, or referrals from your treatment team can provide additional perspective and encouragement.
The holidays often provide natural opportunities to practice new coping skills and emotional regulation techniques learned through treatment. Family gatherings, while potentially stressful, can become opportunities to apply therapeutic insights in real-world situations.
Immediate Action Steps This Week
Contact Oasis Therapeutics today to schedule your initial consultation and begin the evaluation process. Early scheduling ensures you can complete assessments and begin treatment before year-end, positioning yourself for a stronger start to the new year.
Gather relevant medical records, medication lists, and insurance information to streamline your initial appointment. Having this documentation ready accelerates the evaluation process and helps your treatment team develop optimal care plans quickly.
Begin preparing your support network by discussing treatment plans with trusted family members or friends who can provide transportation and emotional support during the treatment process. Clear communication about your needs and timeline helps others understand how they can best support your mental health goals.
Starting advanced depression treatment before the New Year represents a powerful commitment to your mental health and future well-being. The combination of rapid-acting treatments, professional support, and strategic timing can transform your approach to mental health and set the stage for significant improvement in the months ahead.
Don’t let another year pass struggling with treatment-resistant depression. The advanced treatments available today offer genuine hope and proven results for individuals who haven’t found relief through conventional approaches. With proper medical supervision and realistic expectations, you can begin the new year with renewed hope and improved emotional stability.
References
Great Falls Clinic Psychiatry. (2025, August 28). Managing the holiday blues: How to promote mental health during the holiday season. https://gfclinic.com/managing-the-holiday-blues-how-to-promote-mental-health-during-the-holiday-season/
Lebanon Valley College Clinical Mental Health. (2024, November 21). Surviving the holiday season: A guide to navigating seasonal depression and holiday stress. https://www.lvc.edu/news/surviving-the-holiday-season-a-guide-to-navigating-seasonal-depression-and-holiday-stress/
National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Seasonal affective disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder