Our Advanced Treatment Options

Welcome to the Interventional Psychiatry and Neuromodulation Program at Keck’s Department of Psychiatry, where cutting-edge treatments and compassionate care come together to provide hope and healing for patients with a range of psychiatric conditions. Our department is at the forefront of innovative therapeutic techniques, utilizing advanced neuromodulation methods to target and alleviate symptoms that are often resistant to traditional treatments.

  • TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This technique is particularly effective for patients with depression who have not responded to medications. By targeting specific areas of the brain, TMS can help improve mood and cognitive function with minimal side effects.

  • DBS involves the implantation of electrodes in specific areas of the brain to regulate abnormal activity. This treatment is primarily used for movement disorders like Parkinson’s disease but has shown promise in treating severe, treatment-resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

  • Spravato is a nasal spray form of esketamine, approved for treatment-resistant depression. When combined with an oral antidepressant, Spravato can provide fast-acting relief from depressive symptoms, making it a valuable addition to our therapeutic arsenal.

  • VNS is a medical procedure that uses electrical impulses to stimulate the vagus nerve. This technique is particularly effective for patients with epilepsy and depression who have not responded to other treatments. By modulating neural activity, VNS can help reduce seizure frequency and improve mood. The procedure involves implanting a small device under the skin, which is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.