Lone Peak Psychiatry FAQs

Frequently Ask Questions

Q: What is Lone Peak Psychiatry?
A: Lone Peak Psychiatry is a small outpatient psychiatry
clinic dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based mental health care. Our services
include a range of treatments and therapies tailored to meet the unique needs of our patients.

Q: What is ketamine treatment?
A: Ketamine is an anesthetic that has been found to have rapid-acting antidepressant effects, particularly for treatment-resistant depression. It is administered in low doses and can provide relief from symptoms within hours to days.

Q: How does ketamine work for depression?
A: Ketamine works by modulating glutamate, a neurotransmitter in the brain. This can lead to increased synaptic connections and improved brain function, helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.

Q: What conditions can ketamine treat?
A: Ketamine is primarily used for treatment-resistant depression, but it may also be effective for bipolar depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD.

Q: What can I expect during a ketamine treatment session?
A: During a ketamine session, you will be in a comfortable setting with medical supervision. The medication is typically administered intravenously, and the session lasts about 40 minutes to an hour. You may experience mild dissociation or altered perceptions, but these effects are temporary.

Q: Are there any side effects of ketamine treatment?
A: Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, and mild dissociation. These effects usually subside shortly after the treatment session. Our team closely monitors patients to ensure safety and comfort.

Q: What is Spravato?
A: Spravato (esketamine) is an FDA-approved nasal spray for treatmentresistant depression. It is a form of ketamine specifically designed for use in a controlled clinical setting.

Q: How is Spravato administered?
A: Spravato is administered as a nasal spray under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Each session involves monitoring for at least two hours to ensure safety.

Q: What is the treatment schedule for Spravato?
A: Spravato treatment typically begins with two sessions per week for the first four weeks, followed by one session per week for four weeks, and then maintenance sessions as needed.

Q: What are the benefits of Spravato?
A: Spravato can provide rapid relief from depressive symptoms, often within hours of the first dose. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who have not responded to other antidepressant treatments.

Q: Are there any side effects of Spravato?
A: Common side effects include dizziness, nausea, increased blood pressure, and dissociation. These effects are generally mild and temporary, and patients are monitored during and after each session.

Q: What other treatments does Lone Peak Psychiatry offer?
A: In addition to ketamine and Spravato treatments, Lone Peak Psychiatry offers a variety of services, including medication management, individual therapy, group therapy, and treatment for a range of mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and more.

Q: How can I schedule an appointment?
A: You can schedule an appointment by calling our office or visiting our website. Our team will guide you through the process and help you determine the best treatment plan for your needs.

Q: Do you accept insurance?
A: Yes, we accept a variety of insurance plans. Please contact our office for specific details about your insurance coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

Q: What should I expect during my first visit?
A: During your first visit, you will meet with one of our experienced providers to discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This initial assessment will help us create a personalized treatment plan for you.

Q: How do I know if ketamine or Spravato is right for me?
A: Our providers will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if ketamine or Spravato is appropriate for your condition. Factors considered include your medical history, current symptoms, and previous treatment responses.

Q: Is there any preparation required before starting ketamine or Spravato treatments?
A: Before starting treatment, you will receive detailed instructions from our team. It is important to follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Q: Can I continue my current medications while undergoing ketamine or Spravato treatment?
A: In many cases, patients can continue their current medications. However, our providers will review your medication regimen to ensure there are no contraindications or necessary adjustments.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Lone Peak Psychiatry. Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to better mental health.

Q: What is general psychiatry?
A: General psychiatry is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and are trained to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological conditions.

Q: What mental health conditions do you treat at Lone Peak Psychiatry?
A: At Lone Peak Psychiatry, we treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including but not limited to depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and personality disorders. Our approach is individualized, evidence-based, and holistic, aiming to address each patient’s unique needs.

Q: What is medication management?
A: Medication management involves the careful selection, administration, and monitoring of psychiatric medications to ensure their effectiveness and minimize side effects. Our providers work closely with patients to find the most appropriate medications and dosages.

Q: How do you determine the right medication for a patient?
A: The process of determining the right medication involves a comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, previous treatment responses, and overall health. We use evidence-based guidelines while staying up to date with the most recent advances and consider the patient’s preferences and lifestyle when making recommendations.

Q: Can medication alone treat mental health conditions?
A: While medication can be a critical component of treatment for many mental health conditions, it is often most effective when combined with therapy and other supportive measures. Our integrated approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their needs. In fact research shows

Q: What are some common side effects of psychiatric medications?
A: Side effects vary depending on the medication, but common ones include weight gain, drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, and changes in appetite. Our providers monitor patients closely and make adjustments as needed to manage side effects and ensure the best outcomes.

Q: How are mental health conditions diagnosed?
A: Mental health conditions are diagnosed through a thorough evaluation that includes a clinical interview, patient history, and sometimes standardized questionnaires or assessments. Our providers use the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition) as a guide to identify and classify conditions. We also adopt the treatment guidelines from and American Psychiatric Association.

Q: Why is an accurate diagnosis important?
A: An accurate diagnosis is crucial because it guides the treatment plan and helps ensure that patients receive the most effective interventions. Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments and prolonged suffering, so we take great care in our diagnostic process.

Q: Are mental health diagnoses permanent?
A: Mental health diagnoses can evolve over time as symptoms change or new information becomes available. Some conditions may be chronic, while many can be temporary or situational. Regular follow-ups and reassessments are important to ensure that the treatment plan remains appropriate.

Q: What does it mean to use evidence-based practices in mental health care?
A: Evidencebased practices involve using treatments and interventions that have been scientifically tested and proven effective through rigorous research. This approach ensures that patients receive the most current and reliable care. Just because something is evidence based does not meant it will work for everyone. It is important to choose the best treatment for a patient that accounts for their history, biology and personal preferences.

Q: How does Lone Peak Psychiatry stay up-to-date with the latest research and
treatments?
A: Our providers regularly participate in weekly consultation and continuing education, attend professional conferences, and review the latest scientific literature. This commitment to ongoing learning allows us to incorporate new findings and best practices into our patient care.

Q: Can you provide examples of evidence-based treatments?
A: Examples of evidence-based treatments include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for borderline personality disorder, and medication management using SSRIs and SNRIs for depression and anxiety disorders. These treatments have been extensively studied and shown to be effective in clinical trials. Emerging therapies like ketamine, SAINT TMS, and psychedelic assisted therapies are changing the landscape of psychiatry and improving patient outcomes significantly compared to just a few years ago giving hope for those frustrated with the status quo.

Q: How do you incorporate patient preferences into treatment plans
A: We believe in a collaborative approach to care. During the initial assessment and ongoing treatment, we discuss options, considering your preferences and concerns, and involve you in decision-making. No treatment will ever be initiated without your full support. We aren’t here to sell you on any particular treatment; we are here to educate and support your growth within a safe structure so that you can make the decision that is most appropriate for you. This partnership helps ensure that all treatments are tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact Lone Peak Psychiatry. Our dedicated team is here to support you on your journey to better mental health