Comparing TMS, Spravato, Psychotherapy & Medication

Beginning therapy can be difficult enough without being overwhelmed by the variety of treatment options available in modern-day psychology and psychiatry. We prioritize creating a comfortable, safe environment to support your mental health journey. We are proud to offer treatment options using modern technology (TMS and Spravato) backed by empirical evidence in addition to traditional therapy (psychotherapy and medication) to cater to a variety of needs and personal preferences.

Find Your Treatment Fit →

Comparing TMS, Spravato, Psychotherapy & Medication

Beginning therapy can be difficult enough without being overwhelmed by the variety of treatment options available in modern-day psychology and psychiatry. We prioritize creating a comfortable, safe environment to support your mental health journey. We are proud to offer treatment options using modern technology (TMS and Spravato) backed by empirical evidence in addition to traditional therapy (psychotherapy and medication) to cater to a variety of needs and personal preferences.

Find Your Treatment Fit →

Our Guide to Helping You Choose Your Treatment

A man in a white shirt is smiling for the camera
A black and white icon of a stamp with a heart on it.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Thomas Knightly

In this article, we cover the differences between our services and critical factors to help you decide which mental health treatment you may want to pursue with us.

Medication Psychotherapy *Spravato (ie. Esketamine) *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Options Available Very large range of options based on symptom profile. For instance, there are many classes of antidepressants available on the market, including SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants. The same is true for many other mental health disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Each therapy session is customized to address the patient’s historical and current stressors, symptoms, and relevant coping skills to be developed. Fixed dosage of esketamine as per the Spravato product. Deep TMS or Accelerated Deep TMS, using BrainsWay technology.
Time Until Therapeutic Effect Occurs This is heavily dependent on the individual and specific medication. On average, antidepressants can take 4 to 8 weeks to take effect. If a patient is unresponsive to a medication, another medication may be trialed. This requires a wait period of approximately 2 to 5 days. This is a gradual experience and is also dependent on personal commitment. Frequency of sessions, psychotherapy approach (eg. CBT, DBT), dedication to practicing coping mechanisms, and ongoing stressors can influence how therapeutic effects manifest. For some, discussing their trauma or current stressors can provide immediate relief. For others, developing coping skills to effectively manage their symptoms may take weeks or several triggers occur to practice their coping skills. The most immediate effects can be felt several hours after administering Spravato. The full therapeutic effect is often reported to be 4 weeks following the full course of treatment. Some patients report experiencing benefits after the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment. For others, it can take up to 4 or 5 weeks to notice a reduction in symptoms.
Length of Treatment Often several months or until the psychiatrist and individual believes they have reached a point where they do not require medication; for instance when a stressor is no longer a factor in their mental health or symptoms dissipate. In these cases, the possibility of symptoms re-occurring is monitored carefully. Ultimately this decision is made by the patient, and they are free to consult with their psychiatrist. Psychotherapy sessions are recommended to be scheduled weekly or biweekly but may be amended to suit the patient’s schedule. The long-term treatment period may be dependent on the presence of an active stressor in their life or whether they feel they have achieved their therapy goals and competency in managing their mental health symptoms. Improvement in daily functioning or quality of life may also be determining factors in continuation of therapy. Ultimately, discontinuation of sessions is decided by the patient. 2 treatments weekly for the first 4 weeks, then once weekly for the next 4 weeks followed by treatment every 1-2 weeks. 29 to 36 sessions are involved in the first course of TMS, depending on whether it is focused on OCD or depressive symptoms, respectively. Maintenance sessions are available for patients who may not experience full remission. We offer flexible packages for ongoing maintenance TMS, allowing continued support after the initial course of treatment.
Side Effects Ideally, side effects of medication wear off as the body adjusts to the chemical changes. There is a large variety of possible side effects, dependent on the class of medication. Some may include: Dizziness, Change in weight, Headaches, Nausea, Drowsiness, Blurred vision, Loss of coordination, Changes in mood, and Suicidality Side effects of psychotherapy are different from our other treatments as it does not function via direct alteration of biological processes. Side effects may include emotional distress; for instance, when discussing trauma. Use of Spravato is monitored by medical professionals to ensure it is well tolerated due to the nature of the chemical, esketamine. Common side effects may include: Nasal discomfort, Sore throat, Dizziness, Nausea, Drowsiness, Increased blood pressure, Dissociation, and Change in sense of taste Mostly mild or temporary side effects are experienced. These include: Scalp discomfort, Headaches, Jaw or neck pain, and Fatigue. The most severe, however very rare, side effect is the occurrence of a seizure.
Insurance Covered by all major insurance companies. Covered by all major insurance companies. Covered by most major insurance companies Some coverage offered by major insurance companies

*TMS is best suited to those experiencing depressive and OCD symptoms. Spravato is specific to depressive symptoms. However, please contact us for further information on how we can tailor treatment to address your needs and symptom profile.

Let Us Help You Decide

These evaluation points are only starter points for you to make an informed decision on your treatment path. We welcome any questions or interest in singular or combined therapy with us in our mission to offer you the autonomy to take control of your mental health. Reach out today!

Not Sure Which Treatment Is Right?



Take our quick quiz to get personalized recommendations based on your needs.

Take The Quiz →
A hand is holding a cell phone that says find your treatment fit

Why Choose Us?

We are committed to providing evidence-based treatments that offer real, lasting results.

A doctor with a stethoscope around his neck.

Expert Care

Board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in mental health therapies.

A pen and a piece of paper with a shield on it.

Insurance Accepted

We accept all major insurance providers, including Medicare.

An icon of a clock with arrows around it.

Accelerated Recovery

Our 5-day accelerated TMS program helps you get better, faster.

A pink and blue brain with a gear in the middle.

Individualized

Tailored treatment plans designed just for you.

A blue and white capsule on a white background.

Holistic Approach

We offer TMS and Esketamine to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy.

A certificate with a blue ribbon on it.

FDA-Approved

Our treatments meet the highest safety and efficacy standards.

Read Our Patient Reviews

Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"I highly recommend Evolve Brain Health if you are considering TMS. My experience was extremely positive. Dr. Knightly is very bright, compassionate and patient. He took time to answer all of my questions without ever making me feel rushed. It’s very easy to schedule appointments and always runs right on time. The treatment is very easy-in and out in less than 15 minutes with no side effects!"

Gerrianne D.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr. Knightly was without a doubt, one of the most professional, knowledgeable and experienced Psychiatrists I have ever seen. Honestly, it was an appointment I would look forward to, rather than just any generic Doctor visit, which we all definitely know is not where we want to be. His follow up and true commitment to his patients is hard to find these days. 5 Stars is not enough. He is better than any rating scale and I know will humbly continue to help as many people as he can."

Michael.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr Knightly is empathetic, professional & informative. He’s walked me through the process & has answered all my questions without hesitation, even the questions I’ve repeatedly asked. During my first session I was overwhelmed with emotion (I’ve tried many things to try to treat my depression) & he validated my experience & made me feel comfortable. I recommend anyone who is interested in TMS to visit his office, you‘re in good hands."

Jade C.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
A close up of a white and blue object on a white background.

Will My Insurance Cover TMS Therapy?



We can help verify your benefits and provide transparent pricing options so you can plan your treatment confidently.

Pricing Guide →

Featured Resources


Interested in learning about various mental health treatments? Visit our Learning Center for clear, easy-to-understand explanations of procedures, protocols, comparisons, and the conditions they address.

A man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a pamphlet.

What to Expect In Each Treatment


Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience. By informing you what one might expect from each treatment, we aim to ease this process and minimize the stress around seeking support for your mental health.


Continue Reading →

A chair is sitting in front of a machine in a room.

Is TMS Therapy Right For Me?


As TMS is a novel approach to mental health treatment, you may not have heard about it. This quiz can help you learn whether you are interested in TMS based on your symptoms, but it is not a comprehensive decision tool.


Continue Reading →

A man in a white shirt is sitting in a chair reading a book.

TMS Therapy Pros and Cons


TMS is a novel approach that continues to receive more recognition as a valuable therapy option as we see promising outcomes from both research and clinical findings.


Continue Reading →

Book Your Consultation


Take the first step towards better mental health and well-being. Call us at (203) 504-9758 or complete the form below.

Contact Us

A man is sitting in front of a computer talking to a doctor.

What Happens In My Consultation?

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

To create a personalized plan, we assess your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

You'll have an open conversation with your psychiatrist to discuss options and next steps.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

A tailored approach is developed based on your unique needs, ensuring the best outcomes for you.

A black silhouette of a telephone on a white background.

(203) 504-9758

A black map pin with a white circle in the middle on a white background.

Comparing TMS, Spravato, Medication & Psychotherapy

Beginning therapy can be difficult enough without being overwhelmed by the variety of treatment options available in modern-day psychology and psychiatry. We prioritize creating a comfortable, safe environment to support your mental health journey. We are proud to offer treatment options using modern technology (TMS and Spravato) backed by empirical evidence in addition to traditional therapy (psychotherapy and medication) to cater to a variety of needs and personal preferences.

Find Your Treatment Fit →

Our Guide to Helping You Choose Your Treatment

A man in a white shirt is smiling for the camera
A black and white icon of a stamp with a heart on it.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Thomas Knightly

In this article, we cover the differences between our services and critical factors to help you decide which mental health treatment you may want to pursue with us.

Medication Psychotherapy *Spravato (ie. Esketamine) *Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Options Available Very large range of options based on symptom profile. For instance, there are many classes of antidepressants available on the market, including SSRIs, SNRIs, MAO inhibitors, and tricyclic antidepressants. The same is true for many other mental health disorders. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Each therapy session is customized to address the patient’s historical and current stressors, symptoms, and relevant coping skills to be developed. Fixed dosage of esketamine as per the Spravato product. Deep TMS or Accelerated Deep TMS, using BrainsWay technology.
Time Until Therapeutic Effect Occurs This is heavily dependent on the individual and specific medication. On average, antidepressants can take 4 to 8 weeks to take effect. If a patient is unresponsive to a medication, another medication may be trialed. This requires a wait period of approximately 2 to 5 days. This is a gradual experience and is also dependent on personal commitment. Frequency of sessions, psychotherapy approach (eg. CBT, DBT), dedication to practicing coping mechanisms, and ongoing stressors can influence how therapeutic effects manifest. For some, discussing their trauma or current stressors can provide immediate relief. For others, developing coping skills to effectively manage their symptoms may take weeks or several triggers occur to practice their coping skills. The most immediate effects can be felt several hours after administering Spravato. The full therapeutic effect is often reported to be 4 weeks following the full course of treatment. Some patients report experiencing benefits after the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment. For others, it can take up to 4 or 5 weeks to notice a reduction in symptoms.
Length of Treatment Often several months or until the psychiatrist and individual believes they have reached a point where they do not require medication; for instance when a stressor is no longer a factor in their mental health or symptoms dissipate. In these cases, the possibility of symptoms re-occurring is monitored carefully. Ultimately this decision is made by the patient, and they are free to consult with their psychiatrist. Psychotherapy sessions are recommended to be scheduled weekly or biweekly but may be amended to suit the patient’s schedule. The long-term treatment period may be dependent on the presence of an active stressor in their life or whether they feel they have achieved their therapy goals and competency in managing their mental health symptoms. Improvement in daily functioning or quality of life may also be determining factors in continuation of therapy. Ultimately, discontinuation of sessions is decided by the patient. 2 treatments weekly for the first 4 weeks, then once weekly for the next 4 weeks followed by treatment every 1-2 weeks. 29 to 36 sessions are involved in the first course of TMS, depending on whether it is focused on OCD or depressive symptoms, respectively. Maintenance sessions are available for patients who may not experience full remission. We offer flexible packages for ongoing maintenance TMS, allowing continued support after the initial course of treatment.
Side Effects Ideally, side effects of medication wear off as the body adjusts to the chemical changes. There is a large variety of possible side effects, dependent on the class of medication. Some may include: Dizziness, Change in weight, Headaches, Nausea, Drowsiness, Blurred vision, Loss of coordination, Changes in mood, and Suicidality Side effects of psychotherapy are different from our other treatments as it does not function via direct alteration of biological processes. Side effects may include emotional distress; for instance, when discussing trauma. Use of Spravato is monitored by medical professionals to ensure it is well tolerated due to the nature of the chemical, esketamine. Common side effects may include: Nasal discomfort, Sore throat, Dizziness, Nausea, Drowsiness, Increased blood pressure, Dissociation, and Change in sense of taste Mostly mild or temporary side effects are experienced. These include: Scalp discomfort, Headaches, Jaw or neck pain, and Fatigue. The most severe, however very rare, side effect is the occurrence of a seizure.
Insurance Covered by all major insurance companies. Covered by all major insurance companies. Covered by most major insurance companies Some coverage offered by major insurance companies

*TMS is best suited to those experiencing depressive and OCD symptoms. Spravato is specific to depressive symptoms. However, please contact us for further information on how we can tailor treatment to address your needs and symptom profile.

Let Us Help You Decide

These evaluation points are only starter points for you to make an informed decision on your treatment path. We welcome any questions or interest in singular or combined therapy with us in our mission to offer you the autonomy to take control of your mental health. Reach out today!

A hand is holding a cell phone that says find your treatment fit

Not Sure Which Treatment Is Right?

Take our quick quiz to get personalized recommendations based on your needs.

Take The Quiz →
A hand is holding a cell phone that says find your treatment fit

Not Sure Which Treatment Is Right?

Take our quick quiz to get personalized recommendations based on your needs.

Take The Quiz →

Why Choose Us?

We are committed to providing evidence-based treatments that offer real, lasting results.

A doctor with a stethoscope around his neck.

Expert Care

Board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in mental health therapies.

A pen and a piece of paper with a shield on it.

Insurance Accepted

We accept all major insurance providers, including Medicare.

An icon of a clock with arrows around it.

Accelerated Recovery

Our 5-day accelerated TMS program helps you get better, faster.

A pink and blue brain with a gear in the middle.

Individualized

Tailored treatment plans designed just for you.

A blue and white capsule on a white background.

Holistic Approach

We offer TMS and Esketamine to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy.

A certificate with a blue ribbon on it.

FDA-Approved

Our treatments meet the highest safety and efficacy standards.

Read Our Patient Reviews

Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"I highly recommend Evolve Brain Health if you are considering TMS. My experience was extremely positive. Dr. Knightly is very bright, compassionate and patient. He took time to answer all of my questions without ever making me feel rushed. It’s very easy to schedule appointments and always runs right on time. The treatment is very easy-in and out in less than 15 minutes with no side effects!"

Gerrianne D.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr. Knightly was without a doubt, one of the most professional, knowledgeable and experienced Psychiatrists I have ever seen. Honestly, it was an appointment I would look forward to, rather than just any generic Doctor visit, which we all definitely know is not where we want to be. His follow up and true commitment to his patients is hard to find these days. 5 Stars is not enough. He is better than any rating scale and I know will humbly continue to help as many people as he can."

Michael.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr Knightly is empathetic, professional & informative. He’s walked me through the process & has answered all my questions without hesitation, even the questions I’ve repeatedly asked. During my first session I was overwhelmed with emotion (I’ve tried many things to try to treat my depression) & he validated my experience & made me feel comfortable. I recommend anyone who is interested in TMS to visit his office, you‘re in good hands."

Jade C.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
A close up of a white and blue object on a white background.

Will My Insurance Cover TMS Therapy?



We can help verify your benefits and provide transparent pricing options so you can plan your treatment confidently.

Pricing Guide →

Featured Resources


Interested in learning about various mental health treatments? Visit our Learning Center for clear, easy-to-understand explanations of procedures, protocols, comparisons, and the conditions they address.

A man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a pamphlet.

What to Expect In Each Treatment


Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience. By informing you what one might expect from each treatment, we aim to ease this process and minimize the stress around seeking support for your mental health.


Continue Reading →

A chair is sitting in front of a machine in a room.

Is TMS Therapy Right For Me?


As TMS is a novel approach to mental health treatment, you may not have heard about it. This quiz can help you learn whether you are interested in TMS based on your symptoms, but it is not a comprehensive decision tool.


Continue Reading →

A man in a white shirt is sitting in a chair reading a book.

TMS Therapy Pros and Cons


TMS is a novel approach that continues to receive more recognition as a valuable therapy option as we see promising outcomes from both research and clinical findings.


Continue Reading →

A man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a pamphlet.

What to Expect In Each Treatment


Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience. By informing you what one might expect from each treatment, we aim to ease this process and minimize the stress around seeking support for your mental health.


Continue Reading →

A chair is sitting in front of a machine in a room.

Is TMS Therapy Right For Me?


As TMS is a novel approach to mental health treatment, you may not have heard about it. This quiz can help you learn whether you are interested in TMS based on your symptoms, but it is not a comprehensive decision tool.


Continue Reading →

A man in a white shirt is sitting in a chair reading a book.

Our Guide to Help You Choose Your Treatment


Beginning therapy can be difficult enough without being overwhelmed by the variety of treatment options. In this article, we cover the differences between our services to help you decide which treatment you may want to pursue with us.


Continue Reading →

Book Consultation


Take the first step towards better mental health and well-being. Call us at (203) 504-9758 or complete the form below.

Contact Us

A man is sitting in front of a computer talking to a doctor.

What Happens In My Consultation?

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

To create a personalized plan, we assess your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

You'll have an open conversation with your psychiatrist to discuss options and next steps.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

A tailored approach is developed based on your unique needs, ensuring the best outcomes for you.

A black silhouette of a telephone on a white background.

(203) 504-9758

A black map pin with a white circle in the middle on a white background.

Why Choose Us?

We are committed to providing evidence-based treatments that offer real, lasting results.

A doctor with a stethoscope around his neck.

Expert Care

Board-certified psychiatrist with extensive experience in mental health therapies.

A pen and a piece of paper with a shield on it.

Insurance Accepted

We accept all major insurance providers, including Medicare.

An icon of a clock with arrows around it.

Accelerated Recovery

Our 5-day accelerated TMS program helps you get better, faster.

A pink and blue brain with a gear in the middle.

Individualized

Tailored treatment plans designed just for you.

A blue and white capsule on a white background.

Holistic Approach

We offer TMS and Esketamine to enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy.

A certificate with a blue ribbon on it.

FDA-Approved

Our treatments meet the highest safety and efficacy standards.

Read Our Patient Reviews

Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"I highly recommend Evolve Brain Health if you are considering TMS. My experience was extremely positive. Dr. Knightly is very bright, compassionate and patient. He took time to answer all of my questions without ever making me feel rushed. It’s very easy to schedule appointments and always runs right on time. The treatment is very easy-in and out in less than 15 minutes with no side effects!"

Gerrianne D.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr. Knightly was without a doubt, one of the most professional, knowledgeable and experienced Psychiatrists I have ever seen. Honestly, it was an appointment I would look forward to, rather than just any generic Doctor visit, which we all definitely know is not where we want to be. His follow up and true commitment to his patients is hard to find these days. 5 Stars is not enough. He is better than any rating scale and I know will humbly continue to help as many people as he can."

Michael.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
Five blue stars are lined up in a row on a white background.

"Dr Knightly is empathetic, professional & informative. He’s walked me through the process & has answered all my questions without hesitation, even the questions I’ve repeatedly asked. During my first session I was overwhelmed with emotion (I’ve tried many things to try to treat my depression) & he validated my experience & made me feel comfortable. I recommend anyone who is interested in TMS to visit his office, you‘re in good hands."

Jade C.

The letter g is in a blue circle on a white background.
A close up of a white and blue object on a white background.

Will My Insurance Cover TMS Therapy?

We can help verify your benefits and provide transparent pricing options so you can plan your treatment confidently.

Pricing Guide →

Featured Resources


Interested in learning about various mental health treatments? Visit our Learning Center for clear, easy-to-understand explanations of procedures, protocols, comparisons, and the conditions they address.

A man and a woman are sitting on a couch looking at a pamphlet.

What to Expect In Each Treatment


Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience. By informing you what one might expect from each treatment, we aim to ease this process and minimize the stress around seeking support for your mental health.


Continue Reading →

A chair is sitting in front of a machine in a room.

TMS Therapy Pros and Cons


TMS is a novel approach that continues to receive more recognition as a valuable therapy option as we see promising outcomes from both research and clinical findings.


Continue Reading →

A man in a white shirt is sitting in a chair reading a book.

Is TMS Therapy Right For Me?


As TMS is a novel approach to mental health treatment, you may not have heard about it. This quiz can help you learn whether you are interested in TMS based on your symptoms, but it is not a comprehensive decision tool.


Continue Reading →

Book Consultation


Take the first step towards better mental health and well-being. Call us at (203) 504-9758 or complete the form below.

Contact Us

A man is sitting in front of a computer talking to a doctor.

What Happens In My Consultation?

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

To create a personalized plan, we assess your medical history, symptoms, and treatment goals.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

You'll have an open conversation with your psychiatrist to discuss options and next steps.

A blue swirl in the shape of a brain on a white background.

A tailored approach is developed based on your unique needs, ensuring the best outcomes for you.

A black silhouette of a telephone on a white background.

(203) 504-9758

A black map pin with a white circle in the middle on a white background.
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