For people living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the constant pull of unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors can make everyday life feel overwhelming. Many feel discouraged after trying therapy or medication without the results they hoped for. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is a non-medication treatment option that has helped people reduce symptoms when other approaches haven’t been enough. New Directions Mental Health delivers personalized, evidence-based care for individuals managing repetitive OCD symptoms. As part of this commitment, we offer TMS therapy, providing an innovative and effective treatment option tailored to your needs.

What is TMS therapy?

TMS therapy is a non-medication treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain involved in mood and behavior. TMS is performed in a clinic and doesn’t require surgery, anesthesia, or recovery time. Many people can return to their normal activities right after treatment.

TMS therapy has been used for years to treat depression, and now it is also approved by the FDA to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, including those with repetitive OCD symptoms. For people who feel stuck in cycles of unwanted thoughts and compulsions, TMS may offer a new path forward.

A closer look at what is repetitive OCD

OCD is a mental health condition that includes obsessions (unwanted thoughts, images, or urges) and compulsions (repetitive actions done to reduce anxiety caused by those thoughts). For example, someone with repetitive OCD might wash their hands many times a day, check locks over and over, or repeat words silently to prevent something bad from happening.

Repetitive OCD can interfere with work, school, relationships, and daily routines. These symptoms are not just habits—they are driven by intense fear or distress that can be difficult to manage without support. When traditional treatments like therapy or medication don’t work well enough, adding TMS therapy to your treatment plan may help reduce the intensity and frequency of symptoms.

How does TMS therapy for OCD work?

TMS therapy targets a specific area of the brain known as the anterior cingulate cortex, which plays a role in obsessive thinking and compulsive behaviors. During treatment, a magnetic coil is placed gently on the head. It sends focused magnetic pulses to the brain to help regulate overactive brain activity linked to obsessive thoughts and compulsions.

Each session usually lasts between 19 and 37 minutes. A full course of TMS therapy for OCD often includes multiple sessions over several weeks. Most clients remain awake and alert during the procedure, and side effects—like mild headaches or scalp discomfort—are typically short-term.

This treatment may be beneficial for those who have tried medications or therapy in the past but still struggle with repetitive OCD symptoms.

Who might benefit from TMS therapy?

TMS therapy isn’t suitable for everyone, but it can be an effective option for adults and teens who:

• Have been diagnosed with OCD
• Continue to experience symptoms despite trying other treatments
• Are seeking a non-medication alternative
• Prefer a treatment with fewer side effects compared to medication

At New Directions Mental Health, our team evaluates each client carefully to decide if TMS therapy for OCD is a good fit. We also offer other treatment options, including therapy and psychiatric medication management, to make sure each person gets a care plan that works for them.

Contact New Directions Mental Health for compassionate support with OCD symptoms

Each person’s experience with OCD is different, and so is their path to feeling better. Our approach is based on listening to your goals, understanding your symptoms, and creating a plan that supports long-term progress. Whether you’re exploring TMS therapy for the first time or looking for support with repetitive OCD, we’re here to help.

We believe that everyone deserves access to effective, respectful mental health care. With clinics across southwestern Pennsylvania and convenient telehealth options, getting support has never been easier. Call us today at 724.374.7414 to learn more or see if TMS is right for you.

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