ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy)
ECT is a medical treatment used for severe depression and certain acute psychiatric situations; it can be life-saving when rapid relief is needed and other treatments haven’t helped.
There’s no single “right” therapy—many people benefit from a blend, or a sequence, over time. What matters most is a pace that feels steady and supportive.
Who typically provides this?
Provided in a medical setting by specialized psychiatric teams.
Training note
ECT is a medical procedure. Decisions should be made with a psychiatrist based on risk/benefit for your situation.
Learn about credentials & training →What sessions can look like
- Provided in a medical setting with anesthesia
- A series of treatments with careful monitoring
- Often followed by a maintenance plan (therapy/meds/support)
Often helpful for
- Severe depression
- Catatonia
- High-risk clinical presentations needing rapid response
Good fit if…
- A psychiatrist recommends it for severe symptoms
- Other treatments have not worked
If this feels hard right now, that’s okay
Sometimes the best next step is choosing the right pace and support level first—then building from there.
- You’re seeking a first-line outpatient therapy approach
If you want help choosing a steady starting point, the quiz can narrow the field fast.
Questions you can bring to a first session
You don’t have to ask all of these—pick the ones that would help you feel confident and supported.
- What does a typical session look like with you?
- How will we set goals—and how will we know if things are improving?
- If something feels too fast or too intense, how do you adjust pace and support?
- How do you tailor this approach to my needs, identity, and preferences?
- How do you weigh risks and benefits for my situation, and what monitoring is involved?
- What does aftercare/maintenance look like following ECT?
Safety notes+
- Decisions should be made with a psychiatrist based on individualized risk/benefit.
Educational only. Not medical advice. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911 or your local emergency number.