Inpatient Electroconvulsive Therapy

Electroconvulsive Therapy

We are very pleased to provide an inpatient Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) suite located within our facility at the main location. Most of the time ECT patients will receive treatments during their inpatient treatment stay at our facility, though our suite also accommodates appropriate candidates attending our outpatient services as well as those who may require maintenance treatments.

What is ECT?

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a well‑established, medically supervised treatment recognized for its exceptional effectiveness in cases of severe, treatment‑resistant depression. Administered in an inpatient and outpatient setting under general anesthesia, ECT works by targeting specific brain regions to rebalance neurochemical activity.

• High effectiveness: Clinical studies consistently report response rates of 70–90% in patients with treatment‑resistant depression, with remission rates also falling in a similar range.
• Faster relief: ECT often yields rapid improvements in mood, energy, and daily functioning—typically within weeks—making it especially valuable when swift intervention is needed.

Is ECT right for you?

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a powerful and proven treatment option for individuals facing severe, treatment-resistant mental health conditions. It offers rapid and meaningful improvement for those struggling with major depression, schizophrenia, or other complex psychiatric disorders—especially when traditional treatments like medication or psychotherapy have not been successful. In some cases, ECT has also shown promise in alleviating symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and treatment-resistant schizophrenia, providing renewed hope and quality of life for patients and families.

What to expect during ECT treatment?

ECT is a short, carefully controlled procedure typically performed under general anesthesia. It can be administered while the patient is hospitalized or as part of an outpatient treatment plan. Each session is brief, with some additional time allotted for preparation and recovery. Treatment is usually scheduled three times per week over the course of two to four weeks, depending on individual needs and clinical response. Throughout the process, patients are closely monitored by a team of medical professionals to ensure safety, comfort, and optimal outcomes.

There are risks associated with any treatment procedure and individual results may vary. Please consult the dedicated professionals within the ECT program at El Paso Behavioral Health System to assess if you are a candidate for ECT treatment. Our medical staff will also consult with you on the risks and benefits of ECT treatment if you are a suitable candidate.

Help is Only a Call Away

El Paso Behavioral Health is a psychiatric hospital specializing in mental health and chemical dependency treatment, as well as specialized military mental health treatment. If you or a loved one is struggling with behavioral health or substance use issues help is here.

We cannot offer a diagnosis, counseling or recommendations online, however, our professional staff offer 24/7 assessments at no cost. Don’t wait. Begin a healthier future with us today. Call 915-544-4000 for a no-cost, confidential assessment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Se habla español.