Mental health treatment has evolved significantly in recent years, offering new hope and new treatment options for patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other psychiatric disorders. Traditional treatments like medication and therapy remain essential, but for those who do not respond to these methods, innovative solutions such as Ketamine therapy, psychedelics, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are providing promising alternatives and additions.
Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O. specializes in understanding these cutting-edge psychiatric treatments, offering patient-centered approaches and recommendations to mental wellness. In this blog, we’ll explore these groundbreaking therapies, their benefits, and if they might be the right choice for you.
Ketamine Therapy: A Breakthrough in Treating Depression and PTSD
Ketamine, originally an anesthetic use in surgery, has emerged as a powerful treatment for severe depression, PTSD, and suicidal ideation. Unlike traditional antidepressants, which can take weeks or months to work, ketamine often delivers rapid relief within hours or days.
How Does Ketamine Work?
Ketamine acts on the glutamate system in the brain, promoting neural plasticity and repairing damaged synaptic connections. This is different from traditional antidepressants, which traditionally target serotonin and dopamine pathways.
Who Can Benefit from Ketamine Therapy?
- Patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD)
- Individuals struggling with PTSD
- Those experiencing suicidal ideation
- Patients with severe anxiety disorders
Ketamine is administered either intravenously (IV) or via nasal spray (esketamine/Spravato), depending on the patient’s needs. Under professional supervision, this treatment has shown remarkable success rates, particularly for those who have not found relief through conventional medications.
Psychedelics in Psychiatry: A New Era of Mental Health Treatment
Recent research has highlighted the potential of psychedelics like psilocybin (magic mushrooms) and MDMA (Ecstasy) in mental health treatment. Although still undergoing regulatory approvals, these substances are showing promise for conditions such as:
- Depression
- PTSD
- Anxiety disorders
- Addiction
How Do Psychedelics Work?
Psychedelics influence the serotonin system, altering perception, emotions, and cognition. For example, when utilized in guided therapy settings, they can help some patients better process past traumas, overcome rigid thought patterns, and develop a healthier mindset.
Current Status of Psychedelic Therapy
- MDMA-assisted therapy is in Phase 3 clinical trials for PTSD treatment.
- Psilocybin therapy is being researched for major depressive disorder and addiction treatment.
- Legalization and decriminalization efforts are expanding, with certain states and cities allowing therapeutic use under controlled conditions.
While still not widely available outside of clinical trials, Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O. stays at the forefront of this evolving field, ensuring that patients are well-informed about emerging treatment options.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): A Non-Invasive Alternative for Depression
For individuals seeking a drug/medication-free treatment for depression and/or anxiety, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
Benefits of TMS Therapy:
✅ Non-invasive and drug-free
✅ Painless with minimal side effects
✅ Effective for treatment-resistant depression
✅ Short treatment sessions (20-40 minutes)
TMS is particularly beneficial for patients who:
- Have not responded to antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications
- Experience significant side effects from psychiatric drugs
- Prefer a non-pharmacological approach to treatment
The therapy is performed in-office, allowing patients to resume daily activities immediately after each session. With continued research and advancements, TMS is becoming a leading alternative and addition to conventional treatments.
Q&A: Understanding Your Treatment Options
Q: How is ketamine therapy different from traditional antidepressants?
A: Unlike traditional antidepressants that take weeks to show effects, ketamine works rapidly, often within hours. It targets the brain’s glutamate system, helping to form new neural connections and alleviate symptoms quickly.
Q: Are psychedelics legal for mental health treatment?
A: Currently, psychedelics like psilocybin and MDMA are being studied in clinical trials. While not yet widely available, they are showing promising results for conditions like PTSD and depression. Certain locations have begun decriminalization efforts, and FDA approval may be on the horizon.
Q: Who is a good candidate for TMS therapy?
A: TMS is best suited for individuals with treatment-resistant depression who have not found relief with medication. It’s a non-invasive option with minimal side effects, making it an appealing choice for many patients.
Q: Are these treatments covered by insurance?
A: Many insurance providers cover TMS therapy, while ketamine and psychedelic therapies are still considered experimental in most cases. Our office can help you navigate coverage options and financing plans.
Q: How do I know which treatment is right for me?
A: The best way to determine the right treatment is through a consultation with Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.. We assess your medical history, symptoms, and goals to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with treatment-resistant depression, PTSD, or other mental health challenges, don’t lose hope. Innovative treatments like ketamine therapy, psychedelics, and TMS are opening new doors to recovery.
📍 Dr. Matthew Goldenberg, D.O.
Dr. Goldenberg is licensed to see patients in California, Hawaii and Alaska.
📞 Phone: (424) 276-0777
🕒 Business Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore the future of mental health treatment!