Pittsburg, Kansas — Crawford County Mental Health Center (CCMHC) proudly announces the launch of SPRAVATO® treatment in Pittsburg, Kansas, as part of its comprehensive mental health services. SPRAVATO (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for adults with treatment-resistant depression and major depressive disorder (MDD) with suicidal thoughts or actions.

As a REMS-certified SPRAVATO Treatment Center, CCMHC now offers this innovative treatment to eligible patients in the region. SPRAVATO treatment helps individuals who haven’t found relief through traditional antidepressants and may provide rapid symptom improvement. Healthcare professionals administer SPRAVATO in a safe, supportive environment, following FDA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) guidelines.

“Adding SPRAVATO gives our patients and local treatment providers a much-needed alternative for those facing severe and persistent depressive symptoms,” said Eric Thomason, PMHNP. “Our goal is to ensure individuals have access to the most innovative, and effective treatments available right here in Crawford County.”

Referrals and Additional Information

Patients can access treatment through a provider referral and clinical evaluation to confirm eligibility. Each session includes on-site monitoring to ensure comfort and safety throughout the process.

To refer a patient, providers should complete the SPRAVATO Referral Form and fax it securely to 620-231-1152. The form and additional details are available here. For more information or to speak with someone about SPRAVATO, call 620-231-5130 or contact us. To learn more about the medication itself, visit www.spravato.com.

A Spravato medication box resting on an end table, with a cozy upholstered chair in the background, suggesting a calm, therapeutic setting.

What is SPRAVATO?

SPRAVATO (esketamine) is a nasal spray that works differently from traditional antidepressants. It targets the brain’s NMDA receptors and enhances neural plasticity—the brain’s ability to form new connections. Providers typically prescribe it alongside an oral antidepressant, and medical staff supervise each session.

The FDA approved SPRAVATO in 2019. Clinical studies show patients using SPRAVATO with an oral antidepressant experienced greater symptom reduction than those using oral medication alone.

Who is SPRAVATO right for?

Individuals may be a candidate for SPRAVATO treatment if they:

  • Have tried two or more antidepressants without adequate relief
  • Have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Are experiencing suicidal thoughts or ideation

Because SPRAVATO requires careful monitoring, it is only available at REMS-certified treatment centers, like CCMHC, and must be administered in a clinical setting under the supervision of qualified healthcare professionals. Each session includes a two-hour observation period following administration to ensure safety and support.

Crawford County Mental Health Center has been serving the mental health needs of Crawford County and the surrounding area since 1961, offering adult, children, crisis, medication, veteran, and substance use services. For more information on the services provided, please call 620-231-5130 or visit www.crawfordmentalhealth.org.