Alternative Depression and Pain
Rockville, Maryland
Conditions Treated
Ketamine is FDA-approved as an anesthetic and, in the form of Spravato (esketamine), for treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation. It is also widely used off-label for anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, bipolar depression, and certain chronic-pain conditions including CRPS and fibromyalgia. Eligibility depends on a clinical intake evaluation with the prescribing provider.
Treatment Offered at Alternative Depression and Pain
Spravato (Esketamine)
Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray derived from ketamine, administered in a certified healthcare setting. Patients self-administer the spray under clinical supervision and then rest on-site for two hours while staff monitor blood pressure and mental status. Treatment typically starts twice weekly, then tapers to weekly and eventually bi-weekly maintenance. Because Spravato is dispensed through a REMS-certified program, it must be given in-office — patients cannot take it home.
Ketamine Therapy in Rockville, Maryland
Rockville is served by 3 ketamine providers including Alternative Depression and Pain. Across Maryland there are 88 listed ketamine clinics in the Ketamine Atlas directory, offering a range of treatment options including IV infusion, Spravato, sublingual programs, and telehealth. Rockville is also part of the Washington DC metro area with additional providers nearby. If cost or distance is a barrier, telehealth options may allow treatment from home.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
Before your first Spravato appointment, the clinic's team will review your psychiatric history, current medications, and confirm that you meet the FDA criteria (treatment-resistant depression or MDD with suicidal ideation). A prescriber must certify enrollment in the REMS program, so expect some administrative paperwork at the initial consultation.
On treatment days, the clinical staff will guide you through self-administering the nasal spray. You'll then remain in the office for a mandatory two-hour observation window while staff monitor blood pressure, alertness, and mental status. Bring something relaxing — music, an eye mask — and arrange a ride home, as driving is not permitted on treatment days.
Frequently Asked Questions about Alternative Depression and Pain
How long does a session at Alternative Depression and Pain last?
A typical Spravato (Esketamine) session lasts roughly two and a half hours per visit — this includes self-administering the nasal spray plus a mandatory two-hour on-site observation period required by the FDA REMS program.
Does Alternative Depression and Pain accept insurance?
Most ketamine clinics, including Alternative Depression and Pain, operate primarily on a cash-pay basis, as ketamine infusion therapy (IV, IM, sublingual) is not covered by most health plans. Spravato (esketamine) is an exception and has broader insurance coverage. Contact the clinic directly to confirm current options.
What conditions does Alternative Depression and Pain treat?
Alternative Depression and Pain offers ketamine therapy, which is FDA-approved for anesthesia and — as Spravato — for treatment-resistant depression. Off-label applications commonly addressed at ketamine clinics include anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar depression, and chronic-pain conditions. Contact Alternative Depression and Pain directly to discuss your specific situation.
How do I book an appointment at Alternative Depression and Pain?
You can reach Alternative Depression and Pain by calling 855-646-8963 or visiting their website. Most clinics require a brief intake screening before scheduling the first treatment session.
Where is Alternative Depression and Pain located?
Alternative Depression and Pain is located at 6000 Executive Blvd, SUITE 315, Rockville, MD, 20852.