Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is an effective evidence based medical treatment that involves a brief electrical stimulation to the brain. It is typically used for patients with severe major depression or bipolar disorder who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication and/or psychotherapy. ECT is also used for those who require a rapid treatment response, such as high risk for suicide or states of catatonia in which a person may not be eating or drinking.
ECT has extensive evidence to support its use with seven decades of research since its first use in the 1930s. Studies have shown that up to 70% of treatment resistant patients (those who have not responded to medications) may respond positively to ECT. No one is certain as to the reason for its effectiveness. ECT may work by altering brain chemicals, including neurotransmitters such as serotonin, natural pain relievers called endorphins, and catecholamines such as adrenaline.
ECT had been offered to patients at the old site at Providence Care Mental Health Services (PCMHS) since before the 1980s. For the past 30+ years the service has been running continually 3 times a week. The service had been providing just over 300 treatments in 1990 to over 1000 treatments in 2016. April 19, 2017 marked the last day ECT was offered at PCMHS in preparation for the transition to Providence Care Hospital where ECT 
treatments started on April 24 2017.
how can I make an appointment for a client who has failed many courses of antidepressant treatments over the years
Hi Katherine, reach out to Dr. Hassan. He should know!
I am in need of treatment and my GP has tried all courses of medicine,,I need a new therapyand cannot”wait”,God bless
343-998-7518-text please
Hi Christina,
Are you able to email us at info@providencecare.ca? We can then forward your question/request to a more appropriate person.
Kind regards
My name is Enrico Urbani. I live I Gatineau q.c. I’m seeking a psychiatrist in my area who performs electro compulsive therapy..i can be reached at (819) 968-1574.
Hi Enrico,
We are located in Kingston, Ontario. Unfortunately I am unaware of services in Quebec; however, I would suggest contacting either your family physician, or getting in contact with a facility in the Gatineau area to see if they can better answer your question and direct you appropriately.
Kind regards
Do I need a referral from my doctor and is the treatment
Covered by ohip
Hi Correy,
If you visit our Services & Referrals page (https://providencecare.ca/services-referrals/) there is a description about the service and a referral form.