Intranasal Depression Treatment
When depression persists despite multiple treatment attempts.
Esketamine (Spravato TM) – Advanced Intranasal Depression Treatment
Esketamine offers a breakthrough approach for treatment-resistant depression.
The RANZCP guidelines note that approximately 60% of patients with depression achieve remission using one to two antidepressants combined with psychological interventions. 40% of those who don’t respond to two adequate antidepressant trials are classified as having Treatment-Resistant Depression.
This TGA-approved nasal spray treatment has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in severe depression cases where traditional antidepressants haven't provided relief.
As one of only a select few clinics authorised to offer this restricted medication, Ponti Health provides the unique advantage of integrated care – our specialist Psychiatrists work seamlessly alongside our on-site GP and Nursing teams.
Treatment can be supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs and approved Work Cover Cases.
Our psychiatrists bring extensive clinical expertise from public hospitals, with experience in advanced treatments, including Intranasal Esketamine Treatment.
*Esketamine is on the PBS for Treatment-Resistant Depression from
1 May 2025.
Eligibility
Patients who have trialled two or more oral antidepressants in their current episode of depression without a successful response may be eligible for this treatment.
You will need a referral from your Psychiatrist or General Practitioner to begin treatment. Please click on this link to send us your referral.
If you don't have a Psychiatrist, please click on this link for an Initial General Psychiatry appointment.
We will be in touch via SMS (0427 608 298), phone (02 7201 0015) or email (enquiries@pontihealth.com) within seven business days.
Please save these details for ease of contact under ‘Ponti Health’
Only our accredited specialists can prescribe Esketamine for administration at Ponti Health.
What does Treatment look like?
Patients who are eligible for Treatment will undergo the following treatment phases;
INITIAL APPOINTMENT: Psychiatrist (with referral)
Phase 1: Induction (Weeks 1-4): 2 sessions per week for 4 weeks
Phase 2: Transition (Weeks 5-8): 1 session per week for the next 4 weeks
Phase 3: Maintenance (Weeks 9 onwards/ Month 2 onwards): Weekly or fortnightly (your psychiatrist will advise)
This may vary, and your treating psychiatrist will discuss this with you.
Treatment may continue for at least 6 months.
Dosage: The dosage may vary during the course of Treatment. Sometimes you may receive two devices, and other times three. If you are over 65, you will start with one device.
5 Things to prepare, pre-treatment
Find a friend or family member who can pick you up after each treatment, or arrange transportation. Our team will help you get into a taxi/Uber/ride home with a loved one. (You matter; we want you to get home safely.)
We advise against taking public transport after your appointment
Allocate 1.5-3 hours for each treatment.
15-20 mins: Psychiatrist consultation
1-2 hours: In a recliner for treatment and post-treatment care with Nursing Support.
Our GP will also check in on you if required.
3. We will book you in at 9.30 AM with your treating Psychiatrist and the nursing team.
4. Understand the costs and the consent form (This will be sent to you via email)
5. Prep your tote bag (See list below)
Pack a small tote bag with:
Eye Mask.
Jumper, Shawl or something to keep you warm.
Headphones with calm music.
Wear comfortable clothes. Our chairs are very comfortable to settle into.
Please review the costs and complete the Consent form.
Inform your friend/family member who may be escorting you home.
How often do you offer this treatment?
Our Esketamine clinics run twice a week on Mondays and Thursdays.
We will also pre-book your appointments for the duration of the treatment to make things easier.
What is the booking process?
Step 1: Click on this link to send us your referral.
Step 2: You will hear from us in 7- 10 business days.
Step 3: You'll receive communication from us via text (0427608298), phone (02 7210 0015), or email. Please save these details, as appointments fill up quickly.
Step 4: To secure your initial psychiatry consultation, we require a $400 deposit at the time of booking. Your deposit will be applied towards your consultation fee on the day of your appointment.
Step 5: Your initial appointment will be scheduled within 4-9 weeks.
We are available on
Text (Only): 0427608298
Email: enquiries@pontihealth.com
Phone: 02 72010015
Please save our numbers
I have a referral for Intranasal Esketamine Treatment
I wish to explore options with a Ponti Health Psychiatrist
I wish to explore options with a Mental Health Specialist GP for a referral
Link to Consent Form
Important Information
Please read important information around your booking and services prior to attending your appointment. If you have any questions about your booking, please reach out to enquiries@pontihealth.com.
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Our Psychiatrist, Psychologist and Mental Health GPs work as a team and can step in and support you during business hours, even if your specific doctor is away.
However, should you or someone you know require urgent crisis assistance, pls call please call 000 and ask for immediate support. You can also present to your nearest Emergency or Accident and Emergency service at your local hospital for immediate intervention and support.
The 1800 011 511 Mental Health Line is NSW Health's 24/7 statewide phone service, linking people with NSW Health mental health services. It is a free service.
It is staffed by trained mental health professionals who:
Offer mental health advice
Complete a brief assessment
Make recommendations for appropriate care, including referral to NSW Health mental health services.
The mental health professional will ask you questions to understand your needs and recommend appropriate services.
There are also other mental health resources provided by the state government of NSW, accessible via
https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mentalhealth/services/Pages/default.aspx
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Medicare benefits are available and vary based on the type of consultation and eligible services provided. You will be required to pay the full cost of the consultation. At the time of payment, we’ll process the electronic Medicare claim for you, which will be credited directly to your debit card or the bank account that you've registered with Medicare.
If you are on a Mental Health Care Plan or an Enhanced Primary Care Plan, you will also be eligible for a benefit from Medicare.
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Once a patient reaches the Medicare Safety Net threshold, they can receive higher Medicare benefits for out-of-hospital services for the rest of the calendar year. This reduces their out-of-pocket costs for services listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS). It applies automatically for individuals, while families need to register. Ref. https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/medicare-safety-nets
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If you have Private Health Insurance you may be eligible to claim benefits through Extras cover for allied health services such as physiotherapy, psychology, and more. The amount you can claim will depend on your specific level of cover and the service provided.
For more details on your entitlements and how to claim, please check your policy or contact your Private Health Insurer directly.
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We understand that life happens.
If you are unable to attend your appointment time, we ask that you provide notice for any appointment changes or cancellations.
24 hours prior: No cancellation fees
Less than 24 hours or ‘No-Show’ - a $100 cancellation fee may apply and full fees for your next appointment will be payable at the time of booking.
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Our booking platform will request your payment details to secure your appointment.
Fees are paid in full at the conclusion of your appointment. All major credit and debit cards are accepted.
Surcharges are excluded from EFTPOS debit payments.