TMS therapy is a safe and effective, non-invasive treatment. What Is TMS Therapy? It applies magnetic fields to target regions of the brain associated with mood regulation. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is becoming increasingly popular for its advanced and effective level of treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
TMS therapy is targeted, providing effective symptomatic relief and is generally well-tolerated with very few side effects. At The Healthy Minds, TMS therapy is FDA-approved, safe, non-invasive, and does not require anesthesia. You will be able to return to daily living after your session is complete.
What Is TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive procedure. It employs magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is primarily used to treat depression, anxiety, and specific neurological conditions.
A device that is positioned above your head delivers taps to the prefrontal cortex; the section of the brain involved with regulating mood. TMS therapy can help with mood regulation, promote concentration, and relieve symptoms of depression without any of the side effects that come from medications.
How Does TMS Therapy Work?
It’s similar to changing the wiring in the brain’s emotional circuits.
The brain can be stimulated safely with electrical pulses delivered through coils and creating small electrical currents. The electrical currents stimulate and activate those neurons that are “sleeping” or inactive due to depression.
Overtime, repeated stimulation can strengthen the neural network of the brain circuits, and in turn, allow the brain to function more efficiently while regulating mood in a more natural way.
TMS Therapy Side Effects
- Mild headache
- Scalp discomfort during stimulation
- Temporary tingling or twitching of facial muscle
- Lightheadedness
Rare side effects include seizures.
But the risk is extremely low when the therapy is administered by trained professionals.
For example, TMS therapy local side effects headache is among the most common, but it’s temporary and manageable with over-the-counter medication.
TMS vs Medication for Depression
Medications:
- Work chemically throughout the entire body.
- May cause side effects like nausea, fatigue, or weight gain.
- Often take weeks to show results.
TMS Therapy:
- Works directly on brain regions involved in mood regulation.
- Non-systemic, meaning fewer side effects.
- Results often appear after 10–15 sessions.
Many patients prefer TMS therapy after trying multiple antidepressants without success.
How Long Does TMS Therapy Take?
TMS treatment time varies by individual. The average TMS session lasts 20–40 minutes. You can go back to work or resume your normal daily activities after the session.
TMS Therapy for Anxiety
TMS therapy for anxiety was originally designed for depression, however, it has produced positive results. It targets overactive brain areas related to anxiety and helps to calm too much neural activity while promoting relaxation.
Benefits of the TMS treatment can include:
- A reduction in the intensity of anxiety
- Some improvements in sleep
- An improved focus and regulation of mood
What to Expect During a TMS Session?
Here’s a breakdown of what happens during your first visit:
Initial Assessment
Your provider reviews your symptoms and history.
Mapping
The coil is positioned over the correct brain area.
Stimulation
Magnetic pulses are delivered while you relax.
Post-session Feedback
You can share how you feel before scheduling your next session.
Conclusion
TMS therapy is a life-changing treatment bringing new hope after years of experiencing depression or anxiety. The procedure itself is safe and non-invasive and has been shown to work in multiple studies, even when medications have not been effective for the patient.
TMS therapy restores some balance to brain area through stimulation to improve overall well-being. The TMS therapy cost can depend on multiple elements, for instance, clinic location, sessions completed, and if insurance will cover it.
If you ever considered TMS therapy for yourself or your loved one this could be the time to discover your healthiest and happiest self. Reach out to The Healthy Minds for diagnosis to personalized care.
FAQs: What Is TMS Therapy?
Are there any side effects of TMS therapy?
Some mild headaches or discomfort of the scalp might occur but are temporary.
How long does TMS therapy take to work?
Most notice improvement after 10–15 sessions.
How will TMS therapy be covered by insurance?
Many insurance carriers do, but it may vary by plan.