Interventional Psychiatry
Interventional psychiatry refers to a specialized branch of psychiatry that focuses on using medical procedures and interventions, in addition to traditional therapies, to treat mental health conditions. These interventions often involve techniques that directly target the brain’s functioning or utilize medical procedures to alleviate symptoms of mental disorders.
Interventional psychiatry is typically considered when more conventional treatments, such as medication and psychotherapy, have not provided the desired results. It employs a variety of methods to provide more immediate relief and potentially faster results for individuals struggling with severe or treatment-resistant mental health issues.
Some common techniques and procedures used in interventional psychiatry include:
- Brain Stimulation Therapies: These therapies involve using controlled electrical currents or magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Examples include Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). These techniques can help regulate brain activity and alleviate symptoms of conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, and certain types of anxiety disorders.
- Ketamine Infusion Therapy: Ketamine, an anesthetic medication, has shown promise in rapidly relieving symptoms of severe depression, especially when other treatments have not been effective. It is administered through controlled infusions under medical supervision.
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS): This involves implanting a device that stimulates the vagus nerve, which is connected to various parts of the brain. VNS can be used to treat depression and epilepsy.
- Intravenous Medication Infusions: In some cases, medications that are effective for treating mental health conditions may be administered intravenously to provide quick relief from symptoms.
- Neurofeedback: This technique involves monitoring brain activity and providing real-time feedback to help individuals learn how to regulate their brain function. It can be used to treat conditions like ADHD and anxiety.
As the field of psychiatry continues to evolve, interventional techniques offer new avenues for individuals to find relief from their mental health challenges and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health condition that is not responding to treatment, contact Avance Psychiatry and Pain Management to learn more about our Interventional Psychiatry services.
Avance Psychiatry practices are located in Raleigh, Chapel Hill, and Charlotte North Carolina with virtual care options available. Your mental health and well-being are our top priority.
We accept most major insurance plans and self-pay patients.
Meet the Team
Avance Psychiatry and Pain Management
Robert A. Millet, MD, DLFAPA
