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Programs & Services


Electro-convulsive Therapy Program

Provides Electro-convulsive Therapy treatments to treat several psychiatric conditions, particularly treatment-resistant depression, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, and catatonia where medication is not working or where they are too acute to wait for medication to have effect. The desired effect is the improvement in condition by applying physical and/or chemical stimulation.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) Program

Our ECT program provides specialized care for children, adults, and older adults who are experiencing serious mental health challenges. The goal is to help improve mood, thinking, and daily functioning.

How It Works

ECT uses a small amount of electrical stimulation to safely cause a short seizure in the brain. This can lead to changes in brain chemistry that help reduce symptoms. The treatment is done while the person is asleep under anesthesia and feels no pain.

We offer ECT in both hospital (inpatient) and clinic (outpatient) settings, depending on what each person needs.

Who can Benefit

  • ECT is often used for people who have not improved with medications or therapy
  • Need quick relief because their symptoms are very severe

Conditions We Treat

While depression is the most common reason for ECT, we also treat people with:

  • Schizophrenia
  • Catatonia
  • Bipolar disorder and mania
  • Other serious mental health conditions

 

Contact Details

Northern Lights Regional Health Centre

Address
7 Hospital Street
Fort McMurray, Alberta
T9H 1P2
Telephone
780-791-6071
Fax
780-788-1516
Getting There

Parking map

Hours of Operation
Days of the Week

Monday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Wednesday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Friday
8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Access
Service Providers May Include
anesthesiologists, psychiatrists, registered nurses (RNs), registered psychiatric nurses (RNPs)
Eligibility

Medically cleared to receive treatment

Service Access

Healthcare providers should consult the Alberta Referral Directory for service referral information.


Partners

Partners/affiliations

Recovery Alberta

Also Known As
Acronym
ECT