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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

A Non-Invasive Relief from Mental Health Conditions

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers a path to healing for individuals struggling with depression, OCD, and other mental health conditions. This non-invasive, evidence-based therapy utilizes magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions involved in mood regulation, thereby improving symptoms. We provide both the standard 4-6 week TMS protocol and an innovative Accelerated TMS treatment, both designed to transform lives.
 
*TMS is not recommended for people with poorly controlled seizures, a metallic implant close to the head, a brain tumor or disease, or a substance abuse disorder.
 
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FAQ

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved procedure that has been proven to help treat depression, OCD, PTSD, chronic pain, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. TMS uses a magnetic field similar to that used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to stimulate the brain’s dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which plays a key role in mood.

TMS converts electricity into a magnetic field via a magnetic head which is placed against the scalp. Only a small portion of the brain is affected; the targeted region relates to the condition being treated. TMS increases connectivity between nerves in the brain, neural activity, and the number of neurotransmitters like serotonin. The increased activity of neurons in this area of the brain lessens depression. Having your brain stimulated by a magnetic field may sound scary, but the experience isn’t painful or uncomfortable. Some people become more positive and sociable after a course of TMS, a difference you don’t see with antidepressants. When used to treat depression, the effects are gradual, and while it can be effective for many individuals, it may not work for everyone.
 

While initially found to be beneficial for those who didn’t respond to multiple trials of medication, or who have experienced intolerable side effects, TMS can be also be viewed as a natural, holistic approach to treating depression. TMS offers hope to the estimated 30 percent of people who suffer from depression but can’t find adequate relief. It has been shown to help those who have been diagnosed with:

  • Treatment-resistant depression
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Chronic Pain
  • Bipolar disorders

TMS is typically given daily, from 10 to 30 sessions total. Sessions take about 3-4 minutes, during which you are fully awake and sitting in a comfortable chair. After treatment, daily activities may be resumed immediately and without restrictions. For those desiring quick and effective sessions, Accelerated TMS treatment is available. You’ll likely receive 30 treatments. The doctor will place a TMS coil on the top left side of your head The coil will deliver stimulation for about 4 seconds, stop for about 15 seconds, then start again This cycle repeats about 75 times per session, shorter for 3-minute sessions. During stimulation, you’ll experience a tapping sound and feeling on your scalp Research shows that regular TMS helps prevent recurrence and reduces symptoms should depression reoccur. After the initial phase of about 30 treatments, your doctor will tailor the frequency to meet your needs, gradually decreasing them. You may get treatments every other week, monthly, or every two months.

TMS has few side effects, the most frequent being a mild headache. Even this is uncommon and can be treated with Advil® or Tylenol®. A more severe side effect is the increased risk of seizures. Therefore, those with a seizure disorder are not good candidates for TMS.

Which TMS is Right For You?

Accelerated TMS (aTMS)

  • Rapid clinical improvement
  • 4 minute sessions
  • 30 sessions total
  • 2-10 sessions in a day
  • 1-5 days to 2 weeks
  • Tapping sensation and feeling in the scalp, possible discomfort
  • Pulse count may be similar or higher per day

Standard TMS

  • Gradual symptom reduction
  • 3 minute or 30-40 minute sessions
  • 10-30 sessions total
  • 1 session in a day
  • 4-6 weeks
  • Tapping sensation and feeling in the scalp
  • Typically 3,000-3,600 pulses per session