Depression often involves low activity in certain areas of the brain.  TMS activates targeted regions by using a series of magnetic pulses that cause neurons to fire. When applied to areas of the brain associated with mood regulation, this magnetic energy results in symptom improvement in patients who suffer from depression, allowing them to feel more engaged in their life and relationships, and more optimistic about the future. 

TMS treatment requires a time commitment of 5 sessions per week for 4 to 6 weeks. During a TMS treatment session, a small electromagnetic coil is placed lightly on the patient’s head. The magnetic pulses are transferred into the brain through the coils, passing easily through the skin and the skull, and stimulating the brain painlessly. The magnetic energy is administered by way of a computer program that allows the practitioner to target specific areas of the brain and stimulate the nerve cells there. Each session takes 20-40 minutes. Most patients relax or listen to music during the course of treatment.

The best way to determine whether you’re a good candidate for transcranial magnetic stimulation is to consult your mental health practitioner. Most candidates for TMS therapy have been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression, meaning they have found other forms of therapy to be ineffective in treating their symptoms. Patients who may not qualify for TMS include those with implanted medical devices or other metals inside their bodies, those with a history of seizures, and those with brain damage. Not all who qualify for transcranial magnetic stimulation will find the treatment successful, but many are able to achieve complete remission from their symptoms of depression. 

Most patients who complete TMS treatment experience no side effects, but some do report mild headaches or tingling sensations in the jaw, face, or scalp. Those who do experience side effects typically find them mild and tolerable enough to complete their treatment without interruption. If there are side effects, they generally subside within a couple of weeks of treatment completion. 

It’s important to discuss this matter with a qualified and experienced mental health practitioner because there is no single answer to this question. Some patients find that TMS therapy relieves their symptoms so that they no longer need medication while others find that TMS aids in the effectiveness of their medications. 

Yes, TMS is covered by most major insurances for those who have been diagnosed with Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD), meaning that they have tried 2-4 antidepressants and continue to have symptoms.

The Psycle care team helps individuals get placed in the right care and works with your insurance to ensure treatment is as effective & easy as possible.