Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in Wichita

A proven option when other treatments haven’t worked.

For some individuals with severe depression or other mental health conditions, standard treatments may not provide enough relief. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a safe, effective medical treatment for certain mental health conditions that have not improved with other therapies or medications.

ECT uses carefully controlled electrical stimulation, delivered while you are under general anesthesia, to create a brief, controlled seizure in the brain. This process can help “reset” brain chemistry, leading to significant improvement in mood and thought patterns. At KU Wichita Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences clinics, ECT is provided by a skilled team of psychiatrists, anesthesiologists and nursing staff. Your safety, comfort and dignity are our top priorities throughout the process.

When is ECT recommended?

ECT is not a first-line treatment but can be life-changing when other options have not been effective.

ECT may be considered when:

  • Severe depression, especially with suicidal thoughts or psychotic features, does not respond to medications or therapy
  • Bipolar disorder involves treatment-resistant mood swings
  • Catatonia (a state of limited movement or responsiveness) occurs
  • Severe mania or psychosis interferes with functioning or safety
  • Rapid improvement is needed due to life-threatening symptoms

What to Expect with ECT

If you’re not familiar with ECT, it helps to understand what to expect:

Before Treatment

  • You will meet with a psychiatric specialist to review your medical and psychiatric history, discuss benefits and risks and determine if ECT is appropriate.
  • Pre-treatment lab work, EKG and physical exams may be ordered to ensure you are medically safe for anesthesia.

During Treatment

  • You’ll be given anesthesia and a muscle relaxant to ensure comfort and safety.
  • Electrodes are placed on your head, and a brief, controlled electrical pulse is delivered.
  • The entire procedure takes only a few minutes. You’ll be asleep and won’t feel the stimulation itself.

After Treatment

  • You’ll wake up in a recovery area, typically within 15-30 minutes.
  • You may experience mild confusion or headache for a short time.
  • Most patients can be discharged the same day, accompanied by a responsible adult.

Benefits and Side Effects of ECT

Your clinician will review risks and benefits with you and answer any questions before starting treatment.

Common Benefits

  • Rapid relief from severe depression or psychosis
  • High success rate for treatment-resistant conditions
  • Can reduce suicidal thinking quickly

Possible Side Effects

  • Temporary confusion immediately after a session
  • Short-term memory problems (usually improve after treatment ends)
  • Headache, muscle soreness, or nausea (typically mild and manageable)

Frequently Asked Questions

A referral from your primary doctor or psychiatrist can be very helpful, as it allows our team to review your case prior to your initial consultation. However, in many cases, you can self-refer. Some insurance plans may require a referral from a primary care provider, psychiatrist, neurologist, or other clinician.
A typical course involves 6-12 treatments, delivered over 2-6 weeks (2-3 times per week). Some patients may need additional monthly maintenance sessions after the initial series.
Yes. All aspects of your care are private and protected under HIPAA. Information is only shared with your consent or when legally required.
Possibly. Some patients improve with ECT alone, while others benefit most from a combination of ECT and ongoing medication or therapy. Your care plan will be individualized to your needs.
We accept most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Coverage varies, so we encourage you to contact your insurance provider directly or speak with our billing team for details about your benefits and out-of-pocket costs.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Call 316-293-2647 or use the appointment request button to schedule. We look forward to partnering with you on your path to health and wellness.

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