Depression Treatment in Denver: Traditional & Alternative Options That Work

What Is the Best Depression Treatment in Denver?

If you're struggling with depression in Denver, you're not alone—and you're not without options. At Axis Integrated Mental Health, we understand that no two cases of depression are the same. Whether you've tried standard antidepressants without success or you're looking for something that works faster, we offer personalized care that includes both traditional and alternative treatments to help you reclaim your life.

Traditional Depression Treatments: How They Work & Where They Fall Short

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often the first-line treatment for depression. These medications increase serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood. While they work for many, they often take weeks to show results and can come with side effects like weight gain, fatigue, sexual dysfunction, and gastrointestinal issues.

In many cases, SSRIs are combined with mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, or psychotherapy. For patients who respond well, this can be enough. But for those with treatment-resistant depression, it's time to look beyond SSRIs.

Why More People Are Turning to Alternative Depression Treatments

If you've tried multiple antidepressants with little relief, you're not alone. Up to 60% of people with depression experience limited or no improvement with traditional medications. That’s where alternative treatments like ketamine, Spravato, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) come in.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy: Fast Relief When You Need It Most

Ketamine works differently from SSRIs. By targeting NMDA receptors and boosting glutamate in the brain, it creates new neural connections and often provides rapid relief, sometimes within hours. However, infusions are expensive and many patients find it difficult to stay on treatment when every infusion costs between $400-$650 out of pocket. Most studies on efficacy have not been done in real-world scenarios and only in clinics where patients aren't paying for treatment. In our experience, when treatment is covered by insurance, it's much easier to stay on a regular schedule, which is why we have switched all ketamine therapy to Spravato.

Spravato (Esketamine): Insurance-Friendly and Effective

Spravato is a nasal spray version of esketamine that offers similar benefits to ketamine infusions. It's FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and typically covered by insurance, sometimes costing as little as $10 per visit for eligible patients.

Spravato treatments occur under supervision in our clinic and last about two hours. Side effects are similar to ketamine infusions, including nausea and temporary dissociation.

TMS for Depression: A Non-Invasive, Covered Treatment

TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It doesn’t require medication or sedation, and sessions are short—around 30 minutes. TMS is covered by most insurance plans and typically costs $300–$500 per session.

While TMS takes several weeks to work, it has virtually no systemic side effects, making it an excellent option for people seeking a non-pharmacological treatment.

Integrative Psychiatry: We Treat the Whole Person

At Axis, we believe mental health is more than just medication. Our holistic approach includes psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and lifestyle coaching. It also means being cognizant of gender biases that can sometimes lead to false diagnoses like depression, when undiagnosed ADHD can easily mimic depression symptoms. 

We help our patients develop sustainable habits like exercise, journaling, mindfulness, and improved nutrition—all of which play a vital role in managing depression.

What Makes Axis Different: Inclusive, Empathetic Mental Health Care

As one of Denver’s few BIPOC-owned and operated psychiatric clinics, Axis Integrated Mental Health offers culturally responsive, empathetic care. We meet patients where they are—whether they’re just starting treatment or looking for new options after years of struggle.

Medication Isn't Magic—It's One Piece of the Puzzle

Too often, people view medication as a "cure" for depression. At Axis, we see it as one tool in a comprehensive, long-term strategy. We coach you in behavioral change, self-awareness, and resilience—so that even after the treatment ends, your progress doesn’t.

Get Personalized Depression Treatment in Denver Today

If you're ready to explore traditional and alternative treatment options for depression in Denver, we’re here to help. Book a telehealth intake or call us at (720) 400-7025 to schedule an in-person visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most effective treatment for depression in Denver?
The best treatment depends on your unique needs. Some people respond well to SSRIs and therapy, while others benefit more from alternative treatments like TMS or Spravato. At Axis Integrated Mental Health, we tailor your care based on your history, goals, and how your body responds, not just standard protocols.

2. What are the alternatives if antidepressants don’t work?
If traditional medications haven’t helped, options like Spravato (esketamine), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and integrative psychiatry can offer relief. These treatments work differently than SSRIs and are often effective for treatment-resistant depression, especially when combined with therapy and lifestyle changes.

3. Is Spravato covered by insurance in Colorado?
Yes, Spravato is FDA-approved and covered by many insurance plans in Colorado. Eligible patients often pay as little as $10 per visit. At Axis Integrated Mental Health, we work with your insurance provider to make this treatment as accessible and affordable as possible.

4. How does TMS compare to medication for treating depression?
TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate mood-related areas of the brain. Unlike medication, it has no systemic side effects and doesn’t involve daily pills. It’s a great option for those who prefer a drug-free approach or haven’t found success with medication alone.

5. What makes Axis Integrated Mental Health different from other depression clinics in Denver?
Axis Integrated Mental Health has earned multiple honors for its innovative and compassionate approach to mental health care. Named a Colorado Company to Watch 2024, and winner of the Best of Mile High™ Mental Wellness award in both 2024 and 2025, Axis has been widely recognized for its clinical excellence and community impact. Additional accolades include the ColoradoBiz Top Startup 2024, Top 100 Woman-Owned Business, and Top Family-Owned Companies. Beyond the awards, Axis patient testimonials are proof about treatment results found at Axis and the compassion and empathy this clinic demonstrates. Axis provides comprehensive outpatient psychiatric care and therapy for adults and children over 5 at its offices near Boulder, Denver, and Westminster, as well as via telehealth across Colorado. The clinic is also known for its philanthropic commitment, having donated more than $400,000 in pro bono care to underserved communities and its commitment to preventing suicide in Colorado by establishing the 266K Project.