Electroconvulsive therapy

The term "electroconvulsive therapy" may sound scary, but ECT has been confirmed safe and effective by the American Psychiatric Association, the American Medical Association, the National Institute of Mental Health and other international medical institutions. The procedure is quick, noninvasive and often brings rapid relief from the incredibly challenging symptoms you may be facing.

During ECT, you will be in the care of a team of experts who will keep you safe and comfortable from start to finish. During the procedure, electrodes are carefully placed on precise locations on your scalp and forehead. These electrodes apply a mild pulse of electricity, which creates a controlled seizure only within the brain. This lasts no more than a minute and is under the control of a doctor at all times. You will be asleep for the whole procedure, which lasts only 5 to 10 minutes.

There may be some mild side effects from ECT. The most common side effects include nausea, headache, fatigue, confusion and slight memory loss, which typically occur only on the day of treatment. However, if at any time you feel concerned or uncomfortable, our team is there to answer your questions and give you the support you need and deserve.

The goal of ECT is to provide rapid relief from mental illness symptoms, but you may undergo multiple procedures to make sure you receive the best possible outcome. ECT may also be provided alongside other treatments, which will be customized to you specifically by our clinicians. The primary goal is to find relief from your symptoms, so we will work with you to give you a treatment plan that works best for you.