Innovative Depression Treatments That Saved My Life

Innovative Depression Treatments That Saved My Life

Matt Rodriguez • September 2, 2025

Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people across all walks of life. While many find relief through traditional methods, they don’t work for everyone. Some people can struggle with depression for nearly a lifetime, and in severe cases, may even consider taking their own lives. 

At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in innovative, evidence-based treatments that can help patients overcome depression, even when other therapies haven’t worked. In this article, we’ll discuss these treatments and how clinics such as our own are saving lives. 


When Traditional Therapies Aren’t Enough

For some people living with depression, the usual treatments–therapy, SSRIs, lifestyle changes—just don’t go far enough. Roughly 30% of people with major depressive disorder (MDD) experience treatment-resistant depression (TRD). 

TRD means that even after trying multiple recognized treatments, the symptoms don’t ease up. This emotional weight can become unbearable, as they feel like they’ve exhausted every option with no hope.

At its worst, TRD isn’t just a mental condition; it’s life-threatening. People can feel demoralized and may see suicide as the only way out. Studies show nearly one-third of those with TRD attempt suicide at some point. That’s why we provide innovative treatments at the Albany Clinic, helping prevent people from reaching this point.

IV Ketamine at The Albany Clinic 

One of our treatments includes intravenous (IV) ketamine therapy. Unlike standard therapies, which can take weeks to have an effect, ketamine can significantly reduce symptoms of depression within hours, as well as thoughts of suicide. This quick action is particularly valuable for individuals in acute mental health crises, providing a crucial window for stabilization and recovery.

In one clinical trial, 55% of individuals with treatment-resistant depression experienced at least a 50% reduction in symptoms after just three weeks of twice-weekly IV ketamine treatments. In another study, suicidal thoughts were resolved within just 230 minutes. 

Ketamine is used “off-label” to treat TRD and other types of depression, including bipolar depression and postpartum depression. It can also treat other mental health conditions, making it especially helpful for individuals with co-occurring disorders, such as depression with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). 

How Ketamine Changed Tammi’s Life

Tammi Pinski is one of the many patients who have regained quality of life after undergoing ketamine therapy at our clinic. Tammi left this review on Google:


When I thought there were no other options, The Albany clinic was my last hope. Chronic Depression, PTSD, and an Anxiety Disorder had returned after a several year reprieve.

I had been on medications, supported by other medication’s and was feeling defeated. I remember hearing a local physician mention the new “clinic” and with nothing to lose, I made the call.


From the moment I spoke with Sylvia - I knew I was in good hands. After my initial consultation with Dr. Garwin, meeting the nursing staff and receiving an IV infusion, I experienced IMMEDIATE relief.


Coupled with IV infusion therapy Dr. Garwin gave me expectations to meet outside of the clinic that included working with a medication specialist and a therapist — all have made an immense difference in my life.


Spravato: An FDA-Approved Medicine for TRD 

The Albany Clinic is a registered provider of Spravato (esketamine) - a nasal spray medication derived from ketamine. This medication is FDA-approved to treat treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and major depression with suicidal thoughts (MSDI). For patients who qualify, this approval often means that insurance can help cover the cost, making the treatment financially accessible.

Like IV ketamine, patients can experience relief from symptoms within hours. In real-world settings, over 60% of Spravato users reported significant relief according to an analysis. This rapid action also provides critical stabilization for those in crisis.

TMS: A Slower But Steady Solution

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to activate areas of the brain linked to mood. It’s also FDA-approved for depression and has shown strong results in people with TRD.

While it works more gradually than Spravato, the outcomes can be powerful. In one clinical study, 63% of patients saw significant improvement after a full course of TMS, and over 40% experienced complete remission, meaning their depression symptoms completely resolved.

What Patients Are Telling Us 

At the Albany Clinic, we offer life-changing care for people living with depression. Our team provides innovative treatments like IV ketamine, Spravato, and TMS to help patients take back control of their well-being. With a compassionate staff and a supportive, calming environment, we ensure safety, comfort, and the best possible outcome from these treatments.

Here’s what our patients have had to say about our services:


“Dr Garwin and his staff helped me when I didn’t think there was anything left to try. The Albany clinic has changed my life.”

  • Hunter Clark


“This place is literally working miracles. The doctors are the best in their field and the staff they employ and the environment they’ve created are absolute top tier quality. The best place for healing. They genuinely care about each and every one of their patients with kindness and compassion. Best bedside manner.”

  • Mini Yak


“Safe, professional, and individualized experience. Doctor and staff are very knowledgeable and responsive to your questions and concerns; making treatment experience exceptional. Highly recommend for those who have searched for options.”

  • Clautus Bierman



If you need healing and want to see how the Albany Clinic can help you, be sure to get in touch today.

Book Your Free Initial Consultation

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy

A Guide to IV Ketamine

By Matt Rodriguez • July 8, 2025
Intravenous (IV) ketamine has emerged as a promising option for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other hard-to-treat mental health conditions. Ketamine was originally developed as an anesthetic, but is now being used in controlled medical settings to deliver rapid relief when traditional therapies fall short. This guide explores the history, science, benefits, and practical considerations of IV ketamine therapy and what you can expect from treatment at The Albany Clinic.

Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) for Depression

By Kimberly Mercille • May 27, 2025
Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) is an emerging mental health treatment that targets key mechanisms linked to depression. In this article, we’ll discuss the science behind SGB and its potential benefits. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, this information can help you make an informed decision about whether SGB might be the right option. What is a Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)? What is the Stellate Ganglion? The stellate ganglion is a cluster of sympathetic nerves located on each side of the neck near the first rib. These nerves are part of the autonomic nervous system, which controls automatic body functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. The term "stellate" means "star-shaped" because the ganglion often looks like a star under a microscope. It helps regulate the body's stress response by controlling norepinephrine, a chemical that triggers the fight-or-flight reaction. When this system becomes overactive, it can cause various physical and psychological problems, including depression. Stellate ganglion block (SGB) therapy may help by reducing the activity of the stellate ganglion, calming the fight-or-flight response, and lessening the damaging effects of prolonged nervous system stress. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work? Stellate Ganglion block (SGB) is when a local anesthetic is injected near the stellate ganglion. These drugs inhibit transmission between nerve cells, dampening activity in the ganglion. They typically include lidocaine, bupivacaine, or mepivacaine, which are sometimes combined with a steroid medication. Patients may also receive another medication to relax them before treatment. SGB is typically performed using ultrasound guidance . The injection process lasts no more than 10 minutes, but patients will motinoted for another 30-45 minutes after treatment to ensure their safety. How Does Stellate Ganglion Block Work for Depression? Chronic stress is a major contributor to depression and is often linked to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. People with depression commonly show high levels of cortisol, a hormone that plays a key role in the body's stress response, in their blood stream. Cortisol is helpful in small doses, but when chronically elevated, it can disrupt neural circuits in the brain. Excessive cortisol can lead to: Neurotoxicity - Cortisol can be toxic to nerve cells, especially in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory and emotional regulation. Overinflammation - Cortisol increases the activity of the body’s natural defense system, resulting in the system causing damage to nerve cells. Impaired synaptic plasticity - Cortisol inhibits the capacity for the brain to “re-wire” itself. This makes it harder for people to adapt to stressful situations and learn new patterns of behaviour. Disrupted sleep - High cortisol can prevent people from sleeping well. During sleep, restorative biological processes occur in the brain, and excess cortisol can prevent these from happening. SGB decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, which can reduce cortisol levels. This can help restore function in brain areas and pathways associated with positive mood, emotional regulation, and stress resilience. Evidence Supporting SGB for Depression To date, there’s very limited evidence supporting the use of SGB for depression. One pilot study found that SGP significantly reduced depression symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and was well-tolerated. However, there was no significant difference to the placebo group and the sample size was very small. Nonetheless, multiple lines of research show that SGB can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which shares similarities with depression. In a trial of SGB for PTSD , participants reported significantly lower scores of depression following treatment. Who May Benefit from SGB for Depression? SGB is primarily utilized for treating PTSD, so individuals with PTSD who also experience depression may find SGB beneficial. Additionally, SGB has shown potential in alleviating anxiety symptoms, suggesting it may be advantageous for those dealing with both depression and anxiety. Because SGB isn’t approved by the FDA, it is typically only used when standard treatments like antidepressants and psychotherapy haven’t worked. SGB is an “off-label” treatment, much like ketamine therapy or brain stimulation therapies. Importantly, SGB may not be suitable for everyone because of medical reasons. Contraindications include: Recent myocardial infarction Coagulopathy or anticoagulant therapy Glaucoma Pre-existing contralateral phrenic nerve palsy Severe emphysema Cardiac conduction block Potential Risks and Side Effects of SGB Common Side Effects Most side effects of SGB are temporary and resolve as the anesthetic wears off. These may include: Hoarseness or Voice Changes: The proximity of the stellate ganglion to nerves controlling the voice box can lead to temporary hoarseness. Drooping Eyelid (Ptosis): Temporary drooping of the eyelid on the side of the injection may occur. Red or Bloodshot Eyes: Some individuals may notice redness in the eyes following the procedure. Watery Eyes and Nasal Congestion: Increased tearing and nasal stuffiness are possible but typically short-lived. Sensation of a Lump in the Throat and Difficulty Swallowing: Some individuals may experience a sensation of a lump in the throat and have difficulty swallowing after the procedure. Warmth or Tingling in the Arm or Hand: A warm or tingling sensation in the affected limb may be experienced temporarily. Although uncommon, some individuals may experience more serious complications, such as nerve damage, seizures, and allergic reactions. Given the potential risks, patients interested in SGB at the Albany Clinic will have an in-depth consultation with one of our qualified healthcare professionals before undergoing treatment. They can assess your medical history, current health status, and the potential benefits and risks of the procedure in your specific case. SGB for Depression in Illinois If you're in the Carbondale area and interested in the potential benefits of SGB for depression, the Albany Clinic is here to help. We specialize in innovative mental health treatments, including SGB, which has been shown to provide rapid relief from mental health symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks. Our experienced team offers personalized support, guiding you through every step—from determining if SGB is the right option for you to exploring alternative treatments and financial considerations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your mental health journey.