Medically reviewed by [Name], MD, board-certified psychiatrist · Last reviewed October 2026
Depression is more than feeling sad. It can drain your energy, change how you sleep and eat, and make work, family, and everyday tasks feel heavy. It is also one of the most treatable mental health conditions.
At Ally Psychiatry, our psychiatrists and nurse practitioners evaluate your symptoms, then build a treatment plan with you. That plan can include medication, therapy and, for depression that has not responded to other treatments, Spravato.
Ready to talk to someone? Call 1-833-269-2559 (1-833-B-MY-ALLY) or request an appointment online. Request an Appointment
Signs and symptoms of depression
You may be dealing with depression if several of these last most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more:
- Persistent sad, empty or hopeless mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Fatigue or low energy
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Moving or speaking more slowly, or feeling restless
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Having some of these does not mean you have a diagnosis. A psychiatric evaluation is the best way to understand what is going on and what will help.
How we treat depression
Depression treatment is personal. Your plan may include:
- Medication management. Antidepressants and other medications, with follow-ups to check how well they work and adjust as needed.
- Therapy. Evidence-based talk therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, to change patterns that keep depression going.
- Spravato (esketamine). An FDA-approved nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, given in our clinic under medical supervision. Available at our Attalla (Gadsden), Montgomery, Pelham and Valleydale, Alabama clinics; Bowling Green, Kentucky; and Franklin, Jackson and Nashville, Tennessee.
- TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation). A non-medication option for depression that has not responded to antidepressants. Available at our Pelham, Alabama clinic.
Treatment-resistant depression
If you have tried two or more antidepressants without enough relief, you may have treatment-resistant depression. It is common, and it does not mean nothing will work. Our team offers Spravato and other options for patients who need more than standard treatment.
What to expect at your first visit
- Call or request an appointment. Our team completes a short intake call to gather your history and insurance.
- Meet your provider. Your first visit covers your symptoms, health history, current medications, and goals. Plan for about 60 minutes.
- Leave with a plan. You and your provider agree on the next steps, which may include medication, therapy, lab work, or further evaluation.
- Follow up. Regular follow-ups track how you are doing and adjust treatment as needed.
Why patients choose Ally Psychiatry
- Appointments in days, not months. Our scheduling team moves new patients in quickly.
- In person or telehealth. Visit one of our clinics in Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama or South Carolina, or meet with secure video.
- A full care team. Psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, and therapists working from one plan.
- Most insurance is accepted. We are in-network with most major plans.
Frequently asked questions
What can depression look like in everyday life?
Depression can affect how you feel, think, and move through your day. Sometimes, the first thing you notice is that you don’t quite feel like yourself.
Do any of these sound familiar?
- “Getting out of bed feels like an accomplishment.” Starting your day takes more energy than you seem to have.
- “I used to look forward to this.” Your favorite activities, meals, or time with loved ones no longer bring the same enjoyment.
- “I keep putting off simple things.” Laundry piles up, messages go unanswered, and everyday responsibilities feel overwhelming.
- “I’m tired, even after resting.” You feel drained or slowed down throughout the day.
- “I feel sad, empty, or disconnected.” That feeling stays with you, even when there isn’t an obvious reason.
- “I’m pulling away from people.” You cancel plans or avoid calls because connecting feels like too much effort.
- “I can’t seem to focus.” Following a conversation, finishing work, or making small decisions becomes difficult.
- “My sleep or appetite has changed.” You sleep or eat much more—or much less—than usual.
- “I’m harder on myself lately.” You dwell on mistakes, feel guilty, or struggle to see your own worth.
- “I’m getting through the day, but I’m struggling inside.” You keep meeting responsibilities, yet feel little enjoyment or hope.
You deserve support, even if you’re still getting things done.
Do these experiences mean I have depression?
These experiences can have several causes. If they persist, especially most days for two weeks or longer, or affect your daily life, an evaluation can help. You can reach out sooner, too.
At Ally Psychiatry, we listen to what you’re experiencing and work with you to find a path forward.
Let’s talk about how you’ve been feeling.
What treatments do you offer for depression?
Most plans combine medication management and therapy. For depression that has not improved after two or more antidepressants, we also offer Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray at clinics in Alabama, Kentucky and Tennessee, and TMS at our Pelham, Alabama clinic.
How long do antidepressants take to work?
Many people notice some improvement within 2 to 4 weeks, and full benefit often takes 6 to 8 weeks. Your provider will check in at follow-ups and adjust the dose or medication if needed.
What if I am having thoughts of suicide?
If you are in danger right now, call or text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. We are not an emergency service, but we can schedule follow-up care once you are safe.
Do I need a referral to schedule?
No referral is needed to schedule. Some insurance plans require one for specialist visits, so check your plan or call 1-833-269-2559 and our team will help you find out.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Ally Psychiatry is in-network with most major health insurance plans. Call 1-833-269-2559 to verify your coverage before your first visit.
How soon can I be seen?
Most new patients are scheduled within days, not months. Your first step is a short intake call where our team gathers your history and matches you with the right provider.
Can I be seen by telehealth?
Yes. Many follow-up visits can be done by secure video from home in Alabama, Kentucky, South Carolina and Tennessee. Some visits must be in person, including initial appointments, annual visits, follow-ups after a hospital stay, and specialized treatments such as Spravato and TMS.
Related conditions we treat
Take the first step. Call 1-833-269-2559 (1-833-B-MY-ALLY) to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment. Most new patients are seen within a day. Request an Appointment
In crisis? If you are thinking about harming yourself or are in immediate danger, call or text 988 or go to the nearest emergency room. Ally Psychiatry is not an emergency service.
Sources
- National Institute of Mental Health: Depression (nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression)
- American Psychiatric Association: What Is Depression? (psychiatry.org)