Interventional Treatment Options

The UTHealth Houston Center for Interventional Psychiatry offers a comprehensive range of interventional and neuromodulation-based treatments for individuals with severe, complex, and treatment-resistant psychiatric illness. These treatments are used when standard pharmacologic and psychotherapeutic approaches have been ineffective, poorly tolerated, or when rapid symptom relief is clinically indicated.

Interventional psychiatry focuses on direct modulation of brain circuits implicated in mood, thought, and behavior, using evidence-based techniques delivered within a carefully structured clinical framework. At the Center, interventional treatments are not provided in isolation, but are integrated with comprehensive evaluation, medication management, psychotherapy, and matched levels of care.

When Interventional Treatments Are Considered

Interventional treatment options may be appropriate for patients who:

  • Have not responded adequately to multiple evidence-based treatments
  • Experience severe or persistent symptoms causing significant functional impairment
  • Require rapid symptom improvement due to safety concerns or illness severity
  • Are unable to tolerate standard medication regimens
  • Have conditions for which neuromodulation has demonstrated effectiveness

All patients considered for interventional treatments undergo a thorough clinical evaluation to confirm diagnosis, assess appropriateness, and determine the safest and most effective treatment plan.

Available Interventional Treatments

The Center provides access to a full spectrum of interventional therapies, including:

  • Intranasal Esketamine Therapy (SPRAVATO®)
  • Intravenous Ketamine Therapy
  • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
  • Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST)
  • Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS)
  • Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

Each modality is offered within clearly defined clinical pathways and supported by experienced clinicians with expertise in interventional psychiatry.

Individualized, Evidence-Based Care

Selection of interventional treatments is guided by:

  • Diagnosis and symptom profile
  • Illness severity and urgency
  • Prior treatment history and response
  • Medical comorbidities and safety considerations
  • Patient preferences and goals

Potential benefits, risks, and alternatives are reviewed carefully with patients as part of shared decision-making. Treatment response is monitored using measurement-based approaches, and care plans are adjusted as clinical needs evolve.

Through this integrated and patient-centered approach, the Center aims to expand access to effective, scientifically grounded interventional treatments while maintaining the highest standards of safety, clinical rigor, and continuity of care.