Across Maryland, residents are looking for better ways to manage hard-to-treat depression, and Spravato® is emerging as a promising option available in clinics like ours near Bowie. For many people, depression is not just a passing sadness. It lingers, affects relationships and work, and resists improvement even after trying multiple medications. This is called difficult-to-treat depression, and it is more common than you might think. In Prince George’s County, community health leaders identify behavioral health as one of the county’s top priorities, with depression and anxiety among the most pressing concerns.¹
If you have been wondering about new options, understanding what Spravato® is, how it works, and where to access treatment locally can help you decide if it is the right step for you.
Understanding Spravato® treatment
Spravato® is an FDA-approved nasal spray made from esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Unlike traditional antidepressants that work on serotonin or norepinephrine, Spravato® acts on the brain’s glutamate system, which may help restore healthier communication between brain cells. It is designed for adults with difficult-to-treat depression or those with major depressive disorder and suicidal thoughts.
Spravato® is always given in a clinic under the supervision of trained professionals. You self-administer the spray, then remain in the office for about two hours while providers monitor your blood pressure, mood, and safety. This is why it is not available at retail pharmacies for take-home use.
Where can I get Spravato®?
In Prince George’s County, access to specialized mental health services is improving but still limited. The 2025 Community Health Assessment notes that residents often face barriers such as provider shortages, insurance gaps, and waitlists.¹ Clinics that offer Spravato® must be REMS-certified, meaning they meet federal requirements for safe use and monitoring.
Columbia Mental Health provides Spravato® as part of our personalized mental health services available to residents in and around Bowie. Our team combines therapy, medication management, and interventional treatments like Spravato® to create care plans tailored to each client’s needs.
Is it hard to get prescribed Spravato®?
Spravato® is not a first-line treatment. To qualify, you typically must have tried at least two antidepressant medications without significant improvement. Your provider will review your history, current symptoms, and overall health before recommending Spravato®. While insurance approval can sometimes add steps, our team works with clients to handle prior authorizations and coordinate benefits.
Can you get Spravato® at a pharmacy?
Because of safety requirements, Spravato® is not dispensed through regular pharmacies. It must be given in a clinic by certified staff who monitor you during each session. This is part of making sure the treatment is both safe and effective.
Is Spravato® covered by insurance?
Most major insurance plans, including many in Maryland, do cover Spravato® for people who meet criteria for difficult-to-treat depression. Coverage often requires documentation of prior treatment attempts. Our staff helps clients navigate the insurance process, confirm benefits, and explore financial assistance programs if needed.
What to expect during Spravato® treatment
A typical Spravato® session includes:
- Preparation: Review of symptoms, blood pressure check, and discussion with your provider.
- Administration: You self-administer the nasal spray under supervision.
- Observation: You remain in the clinic for about two hours while providers monitor for side effects such as dizziness or dissociation.
- Transportation: Because of temporary sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
Many people begin to notice improvement in mood within the first few sessions, though results vary. Treatment usually starts twice per week for the first month, then tapers to weekly or biweekly sessions.
Why Spravato® is relevant for Bowie residents
Mental health is a growing concern across Prince George’s County. The Community Health Assessment highlights that more than one in ten residents report being uninsured, creating barriers to care, while emergency department visits for mental health needs continue to rise.¹ Having access to mental health care close to home reduces travel burdens and helps people remain consistent with treatment.
For many residents, combining Spravato® with therapy and medication management creates a stronger foundation for recovery. Having a local clinic means you do not have to travel far to receive innovative care.
Is Spravato® right for you?
Deciding whether Spravato® is a good fit is a conversation best had with your provider. It may be right for you if:
- You have tried at least two antidepressants without lasting relief.
- You live with difficult-to-treat depression or major depression with suicidal thoughts.
- You are open to combining Spravato® with therapy and ongoing medication management.
- You can attend regular visits at a certified clinic where Spravato® is available.
- If these apply, Spravato® could be an important step toward recovery.
Taking the next step with Columbia Mental Health
Depression can make life feel heavy and unmanageable, but innovative treatments like Spravato® offer new hope. Residents in Bowie and the surrounding region have access to personalized mental health services that combine therapy, psychiatry, and interventional care in one place.
Columbia Mental Health is here to guide you. Our team provides Spravato® treatment alongside counseling and medication management, helping you find relief and stability.
For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.
Source:
1. Prince George’s County Health Department. Community Health Assessment 2025. Accessed 08.25.2025.