Spravato (esketamine nasal spray) is the only FDA-approved ketamine nasal spray in Los Angeles for depression and suicidal ideation that’s covered by most major insurance plans.
Relief can begin within hours or days.
Administered in a serene, private Spravato clinic.
Overseen by licensed, experienced clinicians.
Proven safety profile with strict monitoring standards.
Co-Founder and President, Board Certified Anesthesiologist
Steven L. Mandel, MD
Co-Founder and President
Steven L. Mandel, MD, Co-founder and President, is an internationally recognized expert and pioneer in the use of Ketamine Infusion Therapy to treat mental health disorders and chronic pain conditions. Dr. Mandel has more than 40 years of experience utilizing ketamine as a board-certified anesthesiologist. He also earned his master’s degree in psychology. Dr. Mandel was the original founder and first president of the American Society of Ketamine Physicians, Psychotherapists, and Practitioners (ASKP3.) Dr. Mandel frequently speaks at a variety of scientific and health conferences and is regularly quoted in the media regarding common misconceptions about ketamine, recent studies and clinical trials, best practices, innovations in the field, the latest advances in treating mental health disorders, and how Ketamine Infusion Therapy compares with traditional medications and treatments. He is known for being wholly dedicated to the health and well-being of his patients.
Dr. Mandel earned his medical degree from the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine and completed his residency in anesthesiology at Massachusetts General Hospital and the University of California Los Angeles Center for the Health Sciences. He received a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Cincinnati and a bachelor’s degree from New York University.
Dr. Mandel lives in Los Angeles with his wife, with whom he has four grown children, and their golden retriever, Magellan. When he isn’t caring for patients, Dr. Mandel enjoys traveling, sailing, skiing, and spending time with his family.
Kathleen Lopez, MD
Double-Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Kathleen Lopez, MD
Double-Board-Certified Psychiatrist
Kathleen Lopez, MD, is a double-board-certified Psychiatrist specializing in both adult and child and adolescent psychiatry. Originally from the San Fernando Valley in California, she completed her B.S. in Psychology with a pre-med focus at Pacific Union College. She earned her medical degree from Loma Linda University School of Medicine, followed by an adult psychiatry residency at the University of California, Riverside, and a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry at UCLA, where she also served as Administrative Chief.
Kathleen brings a deep passion to KCLA for increasing access to high-quality mental health care, particularly for neurodiverse youth and adults. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she is committed to providing inclusive, empathetic care that supports individuals and their families in meaningful ways.
She was drawn to Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles because of the team's shared commitment to enhancing individual mental health and fostering stronger, more resilient communities. She values the collaborative environment, where all voices are heard and respected, and where patient care is prioritized in every detail—from the tranquil clinic atmosphere to the attentive, professional staff.
When not at work, Kathleen enjoys crocheting, weight lifting, camping, and expanding her ever-growing home library. A fun fact about Kathleen: she originally entered college as a vocal music major and still has a deep love for music.
Jeffrey Cantrell, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified
Jeffrey Cantrell, PMHNP-BC
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Jeffrey, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), earned his undergraduate and advanced degrees at the University of Texas at Arlington. As an Army veteran, he brings first-hand experience and an understanding of the challenges faced by those who have served. Jeff specializes in providing compassionate and inclusive care for individuals navigating various mental health challenges. His practice is rooted in a client-centered approach, recognizing each person’s unique journey. He is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and committed to providing inclusive, supportive, and affirming care to individuals of all genders and sexual orientations. His holistic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. Jeff understands that seeking mental health support is a personal and courageous step, and he prioritizes building a therapeutic alliance based on trust and collaboration. He involves his clients in decision-making, tailoring treatment plans to align with individual goals and preferences.
Pascal Stirnimann, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified
Pascal Stirnimann, DNP, PMHNP-BC
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Pascal Stirnimann, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, has a BA in Psychology from the University of Miami, a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Columbia University. Pascal specializes in the treatment of mood disorders, trauma-related disorders, and impulse control disorders across the lifespan. He has experience in inpatient and outpatient settings, including training at a women’s shelter in New York City. He takes a holistic approach to treatment, considering the whole individual and family system to create a personalized treatment plan. Using a shared decision-making model, he collaborates closely with clients to provide interventions that improve the key areas of life necessary for overall health and wellness. Outside of work, Pascal loves discovering and immersing himself in the cultures of new hobbies. He is fascinated with each hobby and culture’s unique slang, ideals, and custodians. Additionally, he enjoys many forms of exercise, including cycling, swimming, and hiking, and loves cooking and reading.
Spravato treatment refers to a nasal spray formulation of esketamine, the S-enantiomer of ketamine. While traditional ketamine is used off-label for mood disorders, Spravato is FDA-approved specifically for depression, which allows for insurance reimbursement in most cases.
This in-clinic, self-administered therapy is monitored closely by trained staff. Patients remain onsite for at least two hours after dosing, and care is coordinated with psychiatric prescribers for continuity and better outcomes.
How Does Spravato Work?
Unlike SSRIs that affect serotonin over weeks, Spravato targets NMDA receptors and increases glutamate, which can promote neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new, mood-regulating neural pathways.
Most patients feel better after 3–4 sessions, with some noticing improvements in as little as 24 hours. At KCLA, we often combine Spravato with oral antidepressants and supportive psychotherapy for a more comprehensive mental health plan. Our services also include IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy, TMS, Holistic Psychiatry, and guided preparation and integration support.
What Does Spravato Treat?
Spravato is FDA-approved for:
Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD).
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) with suicidal ideation.
Spravato may also help patients who:
Have not found relief with two or more traditional antidepressants.
Want to avoid the side effects of traditional medications.
Require rapid symptom relief, especially in crises.
Safe, Structured Care with REMS-Certified Treatment
Spravato is delivered through a carefully controlled, FDA-required program called REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy). Only certified providers like KCLA can offer this Spravato treatment in compliance with strict safety protocols.
What to Expect in the First Month
The Induction Phase typically involves two sessions per week. Most patients begin at 56mg, with the option to increase to 84mg. We check in before every session to make sure you’re comfortable and supported.
Tapering (Month 2): Weekly or biweekly sessions based on symptom improvement
Maintenance: Custom schedule, typically every 1 to 4 weeks
Patients frequently ask us, "Can Spravato Be Taken at Home?" and the answer is no. Due to REMS guidelines, Spravato must be administered in a certified Spravato clinic, with patients monitored onsite for at least two hours post-dose.
Spravato is FDA-approved and carefully monitored for safety:
Administered only in certified medical settings
Supervised by licensed providers throughout each session
We monitor all significant vital signs during treatment
Common, short-lived side effects
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Floating sensations
Mild dissociation or perceptual changes
Nausea
Most patients find these effects manageable and short-lasting. Patients must have someone drive them home after sessions and should refrain from driving for the remainder of the day. Unlike many traditional antidepressants, Spravato does not typically cause weight gain or sexual dysfunction.
Why Choose Ketamine Clinics Los Angeles for Spravato?
Experience You Can Count On
Since 2014, we’ve helped over 6,000 patients and performed more than 35,000 ketamine treatments in Los Angeles.
A Thoughtful, Personalized Approach
We understand that everyone’s journey is unique, which is why we invest in truly understanding you—your history, what you’ve tried before, and how you’re feeling now. If you’re already working with other providers, we’ll collaborate with them to make sure your care is seamless and well-coordinated.
And because we offer comprehensive psychiatric services, you’ll have easy access to the latest, most effective treatments—all in one supportive place.
A Private, Calming Setting Designed for You
Your session takes place in a private room with curated music, noise-canceling headphones, premium recliners, and warm blankets. Our compassionate staff supports you every step of the way.
Certified for the Highest Standards of Safety
We’re fully certified to administer Spravato under the FDA’s REMS program, which ensures the highest standards in safety and quality. As the first and only Ketamine Clinic accredited by Quad A, we meet rigorous benchmarks for training, staffing, equipment, and protocols, giving you complete peace of mind.
Insurance-Friendly and Hassle-Free
Most major insurers typically cover Spravato for eligible patients, and we’re in-network with most of them. Our experienced team will help verify your benefits, clearly explain your costs, and handle the paperwork, so you can focus on what matters most: feeling better.
Integrated, Ongoing Support
We believe effective care doesn’t end with the treatment session. We partner with your psychiatric and therapy providers for smooth, coordinated care. And if you don’t already have providers, we can help connect you with comprehensive, wraparound mental health support. Our preparation and integration program ensures you’re ready for your Spravato experience and can carry its benefits into your daily life.
KCLA offers up to 24 months of interest-free financing for self-pay patients. We are in network with most health insurance for TMS Therapy and Holistic Psychiatry. Some plans may also cover Ketamine Therapy, inquire for details.
Spravato is FDA-approved for adults with Treatment-Resistant Depression and Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideation who haven't found relief with at least two other antidepressants. Our team will carefully evaluate your history and overall health to ensure it's the right choice for you.
How is Spravato Different from Ketamine Infusions?
Spravato is a fixed-dose, FDA-approved esketamine nasal spray administered under REMS guidelines, often covered by insurance. IV ketamine combines both S- and R-ketamine, offers flexible dosing, and can lead to deeper therapeutic effects. Both are safe, fast-acting, and supervised in-clinic. KCLA offers both to match your needs and coverage.
What Happens During a Spravato Session?
You'll self-administer the nasal spray in a private room while supervised by our trained staff. Sessions last at least two hours, during which you can relax with an eye mask, noise-canceling headphones, and curated music. Your KCLA Care Team will monitor your vital signs continuously throughout your treatment session, ensuring your comfort and safety.
How Quickly Does Spravato Work?
Some patients notice improvements within 24 hours, while others see gradual relief over the first few weeks of treatment. Most patients report significant improvements after completing the induction phase (8 sessions).
Is Spravato Safe? What Are the Side Effects?
Spravato is FDA-approved with a well-studied safety profile. Common, short-lived side effects include dizziness, mild dissociation, and nausea. Licensed medical providers always supervise sessions, and patients must remain on-site for the duration of the session and their recovery for monitoring purposes.
Is Spravato Covered by Insurance?
Most major insurance plans cover Spravato for patients who meet criteria for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). Different payers have different definitions of TRD. Typically, TRD falls within the range of 2-4 conventional medications that did not work. Your KCLA Care Team will verify your coverage and explain all costs up front.
How Much Does Spravato Cost?
Costs vary depending on insurance coverage and copays, which can be as low as $20 per session. Our pricing is transparent, and our interest-free financing options make treatment easily accessible. Your KCLA Care Team will ensure that you are aware of all your out-of-pocket costs before you begin Spravato treatment.
How Do I Get Started with Spravato at KCLA?
Call us now to schedule a free consultation. We'll review your medical history, coordinate with your psychiatric provider, if needed, and help you navigate insurance coverage so you can begin treatment quickly and confidently.
