Our treatment
A different approach to depression care.
Learn how transcranial magnetic stimulation works, who may benefit, and what a treatment course can involve.
Our treatment
What is TMS?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared, noninvasive treatment for major depressive disorder. It uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation.
TMS is performed while you are awake, does not require anesthesia, and generally allows you to return to your usual activities afterward. A typical course involves weekday treatments over several weeks, depending on the protocol recommended.
- Noninvasive, outpatient treatment
- No sedation or anesthesia during standard TMS sessions
- Options may include conventional 10 Hz stimulation and intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS)
- Careful screening for contraindications and discussion of potential side effects
Comfort during treatment
Does TMS hurt?
Most people describe TMS as a tapping or knocking sensation against the scalp. It may feel unusual at first, and some people experience discomfort or a headache, particularly during the first few sessions.
For many patients, the sensation becomes easier to tolerate over time. Our team checks in throughout treatment and can evaluate adjustments to coil positioning or stimulation settings when appropriate to help improve comfort.
You remain awake and alert. TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation, and patients can generally resume their usual activities afterward.
Safety and tolerability
A treatment without common antidepressant side effects.
TMS does not typically cause the weight gain, sexual side effects, nausea, or sedation sometimes associated with antidepressant medications. Because it is not a medication, TMS may be an appealing option for patients who have struggled with these effects.
No anesthesia
TMS is noninvasive. You remain awake during your appointment, without sedation or a recovery period from anesthesia.
Minimal downtime
Most patients can return to work, drive, and continue their usual daily activities after a standard TMS session.
Thoughtful safety screening
Before treatment, we review medical history, relevant implants or metal near the head, seizure risk, and other factors that may affect safety.
Sources: National Institute of Mental Health · Mayo Clinic
Getting started
What to expect.
Reach out
Contact our office with a general inquiry about TMS treatment or a clinician referral. Please do not include detailed medical information in ordinary email.
Clinical evaluation
We review your symptoms, treatment history, medical considerations, and insurance requirements to determine whether TMS may be appropriate.
A treatment plan
When TMS is recommended, we discuss the protocol, visit schedule, possible benefits and risks, and how response will be assessed.
Begin a conversation
Let’s consider what comes next, together.
If depression has remained difficult to treat, our team is here to help you explore whether TMS may be a good fit.
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