Feel like you’ve tried everything to treat your depression? Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved alternative to therapy, medication, and other traditional approaches that can positively impact clients. A TMS therapy program could be what you’ve been needing, but you didn’t know it. Contact us at 724.374.7414 to learn more about TMS therapy or our other mental health treatment services.
What Is a TMS Therapy Program?
You’re not alone if you’re wondering what transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is. While widely celebrated in the medical community, TMS is lesser-known to the general public. TMS is a safe, painless, and FDA-approved alternative depression treatment that helps people like you overcome severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, and other mental health issues.
A TMS therapy program works by using magnetic pulses (similar to an MRI) to stimulate the parts of your brain that regulate mood, creating new neural connections and alleviating mental health symptoms. While TMS can bring relief in as little as four weeks, it requires a series of treatments to be effective. Treatments are typically done in a provider’s office five times a week for four to six weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMS
TMS is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require any kind of surgery or taking medications. The process is simple and painless—clients only need to sit in a comfortable chair while the magnetic field is administered through a coil placed against their forehead. Most clients report feeling relaxed during the procedure, with no feelings of discomfort or pain.
A TMS therapy program is a safe and effective alternative to medications, but it’s important to speak with your doctor about all the treatment options available to you. With TMS, you may be able to finally find the relief you’ve been seeking.
If you’ve exhausted traditional treatment options on your journey to healing, we can help you consider if TMS is right for you. No matter what treatment you undergo with your provider, your comfort, control, and well-being is our top priority. We’re here to answer your questions and give you the information you need to find the right solution for you.
Yes, TMS is a safe and FDA-approved depression treatment. TMS treats your depression without drugs, so it doesn’t have the long list of systemic side effects associated with traditional antidepressant medications. It also is NOT ECT (electroconvulsive therapy), and it does not have memory loss, confusion, and other side effects associated with ECT.
We administer NeuroStar TMS through a coil positioned gently on your head. You’ll feel a light tapping throughout your treatment session while wearing the coil. TMS treatment does not affect your alertness or memory, and you’re free to go about your day after our session.
Age five and up. Clients under 18 are evaluated on a case by case basis and may be referred for further specialty care from another provider if necessary.
Usually, no. Some specific insurance plans may require a referral to be seen by a specialist; however, this is not necessary for most plans. Please contact your insurance provider with any questions.
Many TMS patients start to see improvement within 2 to 3 weeks of treatment. That can include changes in mood, fewer days of depression, and increased desire to engage with other people more often. In fact, your friends and family may notice your results before you do! Completing the full TMS treatment course gives the best chance for delivering long-lasting relief from depression. As with any therapy, completion is key. Completing the full 6-week course of TMS treatment gives the best chance for delivering long lasting relief from depression.
TMS therapy for depression is covered by most insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare, usually after medication options have proven ineffective in your major depression treatment. Contact us to learn more about insurance coverage options and see if your insurance provider covers TMS treatment.
Is TMS right for me?
If you suffer from depression, anxiety symptoms associated with depression, or OCD but have not benefitted from your current medications—or are not happy with their side effects—TMS may be right for you. TMS may also be a good choice if you have tried switching medications for depression but have still not found remission from your symptoms. TMS is not a drug. It is not another form of shock therapy or surgery. And it has none of the side effects associated with medications. TMS is an in-office treatment lasting as little as 19 minutes per daily session over the course of 6 weeks.
Real world outcomes mean depression relief
A study of real-world outcomes reported an 83% response rate which means patients experienced notable relief, and a 62% remission rate which means their depression effectively went away. The STAR*D study, the largest clinical trial of MDD ever conducted, showed that the rate of remission goes down with each new medication needed. If you’ve tried 3 or more medications, the chance of remission was just 7%.
Get the Help You Need Today with a TMS Therapy Program in Pennsylvania
Overall, TMS is an effective and safe alternative to medications, with very few side effects. It’s important to speak with your doctor about all the available treatment options. With TMS, you may be able to finally find the relief you’ve been seeking.
At New Directions Mental Health, our team of experienced psychiatrists, psychologists and counselors are here to help you find the right depression treatment for your needs. We offer comprehensive assessments and a variety of therapeutic options, including TMS therapy. Contact us today at 724.374.7414 to get started on your journey toward improved mental health.