TMS and Ketamine (Spravato): Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Ashley Keays • December 12, 2025

What Is TMS Therapy?


Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.



How TMS works:


  • Targets underactive regions of the brain linked to depression
  • Uses magnetic stimulation (no medication involved)
  • Helps “retrain” neural pathways associated with mood



What to expect:


  • Sessions last about 20–30 minutes
  • Performed 5 days per week over several weeks
  • You remain awake and can return to daily activities immediately



Who TMS may help:


TMS is commonly recommended for people who:


  • Have treatment-resistant depression
  • Have not responded to antidepressants
  • Prefer a non-medication-based option
  • Want minimal systemic side effects

What Is Ketamine Therapy (Spravato)?


Spravato is an FDA-approved, prescription nasal spray derived from ketamine. It is used in combination with an oral antidepressant for adults with treatment-resistant depression.

How Spravato works:



  • Acts on glutamate, a different brain chemical than traditional antidepressants
  • Can help rapidly improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms
  • Often produces results faster than standard medications



What to expect:



  • Administered in-office under medical supervision
  • Sessions typically last 2+ hours for monitoring
  • Treatment frequency is higher at first, then tapers over time



Who Spravato may help:


Spravato may be a good option for people who:



  • Need faster symptom relief
  • Have not responded to multiple antidepressants
  • Experience severe or persistent depression
  • May benefit from medication-based treatment with close supervision

Interested in learning more?


Schedule a consultation to see if TMS could be right for you.

Visit our contact page or call 253-900-1605 to speak with our team.

Request Appointment

TMS vs. Spravato: Key Differences

Feature TMS Therapy Spravato (Ketamine)
Treatment type Magnetic brain stimulation Medication (nasal spray)
Invasiveness Non-invasive Medication-based
Onset of results Gradual, over weeks Often faster
Session time ~20–30 minutes ~2 hours (monitoring required)
Side effects Mild scalp discomfort, headache Dissociation, dizziness, nausea
Daily activity Can resume immediately Must arrange a ride home
Long-term plan Defined treatment course Ongoing maintenance may be needed

Can TMS and Spravato Be Used Together?


Yes - in some cases, TMS and Spravato can be complementary.


Some patients may:


  • Start with Spravato for faster symptom relief
  • Transition to TMS for longer-term brain regulation
  • Use one option after a limited response to the other


At Creative Wellness TMS, our providers carefully evaluate each patient to determine the most suitable treatment path.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best option depends on:



  • Your treatment history
  • Symptom severity
  • Personal preferences
  • Medical considerations
  • Lifestyle and scheduling needs

That’s why a personalized consultation is essential.

Get Personalized Guidance at Creative Wellness TMS

At Creative Wellness TMS, we offer:



  • TMS therapy
  • Spravato (esketamine) treatment
  • Comprehensive evaluations
  • Insurance support and guidance
  • Care at multiple convenient locations



If you’re unsure which option is right for you, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation today to explore whether TMS, Spravato, or a combination approach may be the next step in your healing journey.

Not Sure Where to Start? We Can Help

With so many treatment options, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Let’s make it easier. Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll help you discover what might work best for you

Take the Quiz →

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