Struggling with depression that won’t lift? Get cutting-edge, insurance-covered treatment in Boulder, Denver & Westminster. Explore TMS, Ketamine (Spravato) & more. Start your recovery at Axis—book today.

Advanced Depression Treatments in Boulder, Denver, and Westminster: What Works When Nothing Else Has

When depression won’t lift despite therapy and antidepressants, it’s not your fault—and it’s not the end of the road. At Axis Integrated Mental Health, we specialize in helping people who’ve tried “everything” finally find relief. From Boulder to Denver and Westminster, we offer cutting-edge, insurance-covered treatments like Deep TMS and Ketamine treatments like Spravato – all treatments covered by nearly every insurance.

What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is when someone doesn’t get better after trying at least two different antidepressants. If you’ve felt stuck for months or years – numb, hopeless, or just “not yourself” – even while on medication, you’re not alone. An estimated 30% of people with depression fall into this category.

But today, science offers more answers than ever before.

Evidence-Based Options That Work When Meds Don’t

Axis Integrated Mental Health offers three of the most powerful, research-backed treatments for TRD – available in our clinics near Boulder, Denver, and Westminster.

TMS Therapy in Boulder, Denver, and Westminster

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions linked to depression.

• No medication required

• Covered by most insurance, including Medicaid

• Takes 20 minutes, with no downtime

We offer both traditional TMS and Deep TMS, with proven results in patients who haven’t improved with medication. Learn more about the differences between TMS and Deep TMS in our blog.

Spravato (Esketamine) for Fast Relief

Spravato or esketamine is a nasal spray derived from ketamine, FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression. Unlike traditional antidepressants, it works on the glutamate system to create rapid brain changes.

Available at our Boulder clinic, Spravato is monitored in a safe, medically supervised environment, and patients often feel relief immediately. It is also the only form of ketamine therapy covered by insurance for depression. You can learn more about how much Spravato costs and what the differences are between esketamine and ketamine on our website.

Ketamine Infusion Therapy

IV ketamine therapy is a powerful tool for TRD, however, it is not covered by insurance. Like all mental health treatments, sustained, consistent treatment is needed to achieve remission from symptoms. While ketamine and esketamine provides relief, it is not a “cure”. In the same way that you shouldn’t stop antidepressants because you’re feeling better, we’ve found that the sustainability of ketamine is directly impacted by its cost. For this reason, we have stopped our ketamine infusion practice and only offer Spravato in our clinics and only offer Spravato which can be as low as $10 per visit with $8,150 provided to patients through the Janssen Spravato WithMe Savings Card Program towards the cost of care.

Get our Treatment Guide to learn more about the treatments we offer including costs, contraindications and more patient testimonials.

Where to Get Treatment in Boulder, Denver, and Westminster

Axis serves the entire Front Range. Whether you’re in Boulder, working in Denver, or living in Westminster, our clinics offer:

• Same-week appointments

• Insurance-covered treatment options

• Seamless coordination with your existing therapist or doctor

• Full insurance support to navigate prior-authorizations and minimize total cost of treatment
• Referrals or in-house therapy services depending on your insurance and lived experience

You don’t have to switch providers to work with us—we’ll collaborate with your care team to get you access to advanced treatment.

Meet Our Providers: Experts Who Actually Listen

We’re not just another clinic. Our psychiatric team takes time to understand what you’ve already tried, what hasn’t worked, and what your goals are. You’ll get a tailored plan based on science—not guesswork. While people anywhere in Colorado can book with any of our providers via telehealth, our team can also meet with you in-person at our clinics.

Meet our Boulder-based psychiatric experts:

• Ben Egbers, PMHNP – Ben Egbers survived an avalanche, quit drinking and speaks German. He was also formerly an assistant clinical professor in the DNP program at Montana State University and previously served as a PMHNP at Shodair Children’s Hospital. Whether you’re a 5 year old who may have ADHD or someone who needs deprescribing help or climbing out of the avalanche you found yourself in, Ben can see you in person in our Louisville clinic or via telehealth.

• Sarah McLaughlin, PMHNP – Sarah has deep experience with eating recovery and common disorders including Bipolar disorders 1 and 2, panic disorder and borderline personality disorder. With a minor in theater studies, patients have commented on how warm and approachable she is.

Meet our Westminster-based psychiatric experts:

At our Westminster clinic, patients often arrive feeling dismissed, misdiagnosed, or like they’re just a list of symptoms. Providers Heather Markham and Elinor O’Buckley are here to change that.

• Heather Markham, PMHNP – An endurance athlete and a deeply thoughtful clinician with a background in emergency nursing and psychiatry, Heather is known for her clear communication, diagnostic accuracy, and fierce patient advocacy. She specializes in working with patients who’ve been misdiagnosed or misunderstood—and brings both clinical rigor and genuine warmth to every visit.

• Elinor O’Buckley, PMHNP – With a diverse background growing up both in Mexico and Romania, Elinor doesn’t just bring clinical precision to her patients, but also lived experience having navigated bipolar disorder and treatment resistant depression herself. She easily creates a safe, non-judgmental space for her patients where people feel heard and understood.

• Madison Walter, PMHNP – Madison Walter earned her PMHNP from Maryville University. She completed her postgraduate residency at the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care system where she trained in outpatient psychiatry for complex conditions for veterans, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, substance abuse disorders, and primary care mental health integration. She also has 4 years of American Sign Language and non-verbal communication classes and communicate with deaf patients.
• Andrew Wenner, PMHNP – Andrew Wenner is a CU Boulder alum with training both in psychopharmacology and a strong foundation in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). He combines lived experience with overcoming his own anxiety with clinical skills with eating recovery, treatment resistant depression, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other complex behavioral health conditions.

The Westminster team offers more than medication—they offer clarity, partnership, and a safe space to rebuild trust in your mental health care.

Meet our Denver-based psychiatric experts:

In the Denver suburbs of Aurora, you’ll find a team of psychiatric providers who blend clinical excellence with a human touch. Whether you’re starting your journey or have tried everything before, they’ll meet you with curiosity, respect, and a commitment to helping you heal.

• Kayla Sharpe, PMHNP – An empathetic listener who has lived experience with OCD and neurodivergence, Kayla empowers patients through personalized treatment plans and unwavering support every step of the way. She also specializes in post-partum and perinatal mental health.

• Frances Rhodes, MSN, WHNP, PMHNP– Known for her warm, grounded approach and deep knowledge of women’s health as a former women’s health practitioner, Frances helps patients feel seen while exploring evidence-based paths to relief. She has deep knowledge of PMDD, perinatal mental health and using TMS to help women who are undergoing post-partum depression and still nursing.

• Ross Van Allen, DNP – Ross is a DNP from Iowa with a deep understanding of workplace burnout and depression. He relocated his career to work at Axis and is known for his laid-back but deeply holistic approach to helping patients achieve their mental health goals.

• Tiffany Lawrence, PMHNP – Tiffany is a PMHNP from Texas who now works at Axis in Denver. From psychiatric emergency rooms to adolescent detox units, she has supported patients with complex psychiatric needs including treatment resistant depression. She is calm in any crisis and provides exceptional treatment results for those suffering from depression or anxiety.

Our Denver team doesn’t believe in quick fixes. They believe in lasting transformation—delivered through partnership, precision, and purpose.

What Makes Our Approach Different?

Axis integrates psychiatry, therapy, and interventional treatments all under one roof. We manage your prior authorizations, coordinate with your therapist or doctor, and proactively guide you through care. You don’t have to switch doctors or therapists to work with us. As these advanced treatments are difficult to provide in a traditional setting, doctors and therapists refer to us to be an extension of their team.

You’re not just getting Spravato or TMS—you’re getting a collaborative team dedicated to helping you get your life back.

Real Patients. Real Recovery.

“From the intake process to the soothing waiting room on arrival, I suspected Axis might be the place for me. I met with Jamie for a second opinion and felt instantly at ease by her demeanor and empathy. After carefully listening to my background, prior medications and testing, she was quickly able to develop a treatment plan which she communicated to me effectively, answering all my questions. Finding mental health support backed by the latest research – and so close to home! – is such a blessing.”

– Public Google Review from a Patient in Louisville

These aren’t miracle cures, but they are breakthroughs that help real people heal. You can see more real patient testimonials on our YouTube Channel!

What Makes Axis Different

Axis Integrated Mental Health isn’t just another clinic—we’re a locally owned and operated team that’s redefining what mental health care should feel like. With award-winning service recognized by ColoradoBiz Magazine as a Top 100 Woman-Owned Company and Top Startup of the Year, we bring nationally recognized excellence to our own Colorado communities. From Boulder to Denver to Westminster, we combine psychiatry, therapy, and advanced treatments like TMS and Spravato under one roof—with full insurance support and real human guidance. We’ve donated over $400K in pro bono care which earned us recognition from Denver Business Journal Partners in Philanthropy program and collaborate with musicians to reach underserved patients because we believe better mental health care should be available to everyone. We unite mental health clinics to deliver pro bono care to first responders and to enable more people to find help when they need it, even if it’s not with us. When you choose Axis, you’re choosing a clinic that shows up for you, and for the community.

How to Get Started

• Book an appointment  (no referral needed)

• Get a personalized care plan

• Let us handle insurance and paperwork

• Start your recovery journey

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is treatment-resistant depression?

Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a term used to describe a form of major depressive disorder that does not respond adequately to standard treatments. While there is no single, universally accepted definition, it is generally defined as a lack of significant improvement in symptoms after trying at least two different antidepressant medications at an adequate dose and for a sufficient duration. It’s not a formal diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but it is a widely recognized clinical issue.

2. How is treatment-resistant depression diagnosed?

A diagnosis of TRD is made after a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional. This process typically involves:

• Reviewing your treatment history: The clinician will assess the types, doses, and durations of any previous antidepressant medications you have tried to ensure they were given a fair chance to work.
• Checking for medication adherence: They will confirm that you were taking the medications as prescribed.
• Ruling out other conditions: The provider will look for other medical or psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder, substance use, or an underlying physical illness, that might be causing or worsening your depression symptoms and require different treatment.
• Evaluating psychosocial factors: They will also consider lifestyle factors, social support, and chronic stressors that may be contributing to your persistent symptoms.

 

3. What are the main causes of treatment-resistant depression (TRD)?

The causes of TRD are complex and often involve a combination of factors. Potential contributors include:

• Neurobiological factors: This can include an individual’s unique brain chemistry, with some people’s neurochemical imbalances being more difficult to correct with standard antidepressants.
• Genetic predisposition: A family history of TRD can increase the likelihood of experiencing it yourself.
• Misdiagnosis: In some cases, a person may be misdiagnosed with major depression when they actually have another condition, like bipolar disorder, that requires a different treatment approach.
• Co-occurring conditions: The presence of other mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety disorders, personality disorders, PTSD) or chronic physical illnesses (e.g., heart disease, chronic pain) can make depression harder to treat.
• Inadequate treatment: This can include not taking a medication for a long enough time or at a high enough dose.
• Gut Dysbiosis: When an imbalance of bacteria living in the gut microbiome occur which can impact mood, digestion, and neurotransmission.

 

4. What is the best treatment for treatment-resistant depression?

While there is no single “best” treatment, Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) is a highly effective, non-invasive option for individuals with TRD. Unlike conventional antidepressants or first generation rTMS, Deep TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions associated with mood regulation. A typical course of treatment involves daily sessions for about four to six weeks or an accelerated protocol in 6 days.

When considering efficacy, it’s important to look at both response (significant reduction in symptoms) and remission (the absence of symptoms). Efficacy rates vary, but clinical studies have shown the following:

• • Deep TMS: Studies show a response rate of over 82% and a remission rate of around 65% for individuals with TRD. When combined with psychotherapy, these rates can be even higher.
  • IV Ketamine: Used off-label for depression, IV ketamine has shown rapid antidepressant effects, with studies indicating a response rate of about 70-80% and a remission rate of approximately 30-50% in patients who have failed multiple antidepressants. However, its effects may be short-lived and require ongoing “booster” treatments.
  • Spravato (esketamine): This FDA-approved nasal spray for TRD has shown a response rate of around 60-70% and a remission rate of 40-50% and is covered by  nearly every insurance including Medicaid.
  • Antidepressants: For individuals with TRD, the efficacy of additional or different antidepressant medication trials is often lower, with response rates typically around 40% over 4 different antidepressant trials of 6-8 weeks each.

5. Where can I find treatment-resistant depression care near me?

If you live in Colorado, Axis Integrated Mental Health can provide care across the state via telehealth, or you can visit one of their offices in Denver, Boulder, or Westminster for advanced treatments like Deep TMS or Spravato. Not only have they won the Best of Mile High Award and the Best of Boulder Gold Awards for mental wellness, they are known for their philanthropy having given way more than $400K in pro bono care and named by the Denver Business Journal as a Partner in Philanthropy.