At Principium Psychiatry, we deliver specialized, evidence-based care for a wide range of conditions. Our Santa Monica team is committed to helping you overcome:
Understanding that depression stems from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, we conduct comprehensive assessments for each patient. Our evaluation process examines not just your symptoms, but also your complete health background, personal circumstances, and specific triggers to develop a customized treatment approach.
Our experienced, board-certified specialists utilize:
Seeking evaluation and treatment early can help you improve outcomes. Our personalized treatments include:
We begin with a thorough evaluation to understand your symptoms, daily routine and treatment goals. Our experts also perform pharmacogenetic testing to understand how your unique genetic profile may influence your response to certain medications.
Based on this information, we tailor a medication plan that may include bupropion, mirtazapine, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine or sertraline, or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine and duloxetine.
For patients with treatment-resistant or particularly intense depression symptoms, our practice provides specialized interventional approaches not typically found outside of institutional settings.
For treatment‑resistant depression, we offer ketamine infusions or SPRAVATO™ on‑site with medical monitoring. Many eligible adults experience rapid relief, often within hours to days, under careful supervision. This treatment works through different mechanisms than traditional antidepressants, making it valuable when other approaches haven’t provided adequate relief.
Our board-certified psychiatrists, who specialize in the effective use of ketamine infusions, oversee the entire treatment to ensure your safety.
For conditions that require more extensive treatment, we offer an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Our IOP program is a comprehensive 8-week treatment option for individuals who need more support than traditional therapy but don’t require 24-hour hospitalization.
Patients have the option to continue with their existing outside providers or allow the IOP team to manage both medications and psychotherapy independently. This flexible, integrated approach provides cost-effective, evidence-based treatment that reduces hospitalization rates while fostering community support and peer connection.
Principium Psychiatry serves as your psychiatrist for depression in Santa Monica. We offer expert care for complex depression and a comprehensive range of evidence-based options under one practice. We build collaborative, personalized treatment plans that respect your history, goals and lifestyle, with easy access through both our Santa Monica office and virtual care.
With real-time outcome tracking and integrated, team-based care, we continuously optimize your treatment and address every aspect of your mental health to help you achieve full remission and sustained well-being. We also offer telepsychiatry services in California, allowing you to access treatment from your home or workplace.
Results vary by person. Most patients notice improvements within weeks with medication and therapy, while eligible treatments like SPRAVATO™ (esketamine) can offer faster relief. Your care plan is individualized to your symptoms and goals, and we monitor progress with brief scales at regular visits.
Yes. SPRAVATO™ (esketamine) is available for eligible adults with treatment-resistant depression. Access requires a thorough evaluation to determine fit and safety, and all treatments follow Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS)-based safeguards.
Treatment selection depends on your symptom severity, treatment history, and personal preferences. Our specialists will conduct a comprehensive assessment during your initial consultation to determine the best approach. Options range from traditional psychotherapy and medication to advanced interventional treatments such as ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant cases. Many patients benefit from a combination approach. We’ll work collaboratively with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Your initial consultation typically lasts 60-90 minutes and begins with paperwork covering your medical history and current symptoms. A board-certified physician will then conduct a thorough evaluation, discuss your depression experience, and assess symptom severity. We’ll explain appropriate treatment options, answer your questions, and collaborate on developing an initial plan. Most patients begin their treatment journey shortly after this appointment, with our team providing ongoing support throughout the process.
To reach our Santa Monica office, book an appointment online or call 310-564-0110 and dial extension 1. Insurance verification is available to streamline the process. You can also visit us at 2222 Santa Monica Blvd #105, Santa Monica, CA 90404.
