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Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)

Overview

Modern electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a safe, effective brain stimulation technique done under general anesthesia, using electric currents to trigger changes in brain chemistry that may help to reverse symptoms of depression and other psychological conditions. Saint Clare’s Behavioral Health provides ECT for people with psychological conditions who have been unresponsive to trials of medication and other treatments.

ECT is a common treatment option for patients experiencing: depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, mania, or suicidal thoughts or behavior. Circumstances that call for rapid treatment response can also occur during pregnancy and when in a catatonic state.

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Our Approach

We understand the myths surrounding ECT may trigger feelings of uncertainty. This long-misunderstood technique has evolved since its early beginnings in the 1940s, and is now considered to be among the safest, most-effective options for a variety of common treatment-resistant psychological conditions and illnesses.

ECT is an evidence and research-based treatment option and benefits may include fewer side effects and a more rapid return to a sense of health and wellbeing.

We combine state-of-the-art equipment and technology that delivers an ultra-brief pulse to the brain, inducing a therapeutic seizure.

Depending upon individual needs, clients will typically experience between 9-12 treatments, twice a week over the course of 6 weeks. The sessions are approximately one hour, with the actual treatment lasting no more than five minutes and a wake-up and recovery time (from the effects of anesthesia) of 45 minutes.

Our psychiatric nurse navigator works closely with clients and families to educate and inform them on what to expect before, during, and after treatment. The consultation is provided at our Behavioral Health center in Boonton Township and treatment is provided at Saint Clare’s Denville Hospital. Maintenance programs are also available, depending upon post-treatment assessment.

Our Team

Our program is led by a multidisciplinary team of experts, including psychiatrists, a psychiatric nurse navigator, registered nurses, and anesthesiologists. We collaborate with primary care and referring physicians to ensure each client who comes through our program is supported through every step of the process.

Treatment is performed by board-certified and ECT-certified psychiatrists, who received training at New York’s prestigious Columbia University Medical Center, an academic medical center and one of New York-Presbyterian Hospital’s largest campuses.