Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Depression can affect how you feel, think, and function in daily life. While many people find relief with medication or therapy, others continue to experience symptoms or have difficulty tolerating side effects. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an option if you need additional support.

What is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), also called repetitive TMS (rTMS), is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in your mood.

In people with depression, certain areas of the brain may be underactive. TMS works by delivering repeated stimulation to these areas, which can help improve symptoms over time.

Who May Benefit from TMS

TMS may be considered for adults who:

Have been diagnosed with depression
Have not experienced sufficient improvement with antidepressant medications
Have difficulty tolerating medication side effects
Are looking for a non-invasive treatment option

One of our psychiatrists will review your medical history, current symptoms, and previous treatments to determine if TMS is appropriate for you.

What to Expect During Treatment

TMS treatments are performed in our Behavioral & Mental Health department in a comfortable, clinic setting. During each session, you will sit in a chair while a small device is placed gently against your head to deliver targeted magnetic pulses. You may hear a clicking sound and feel a light tapping sensation during treatment.

Sessions typically last between a few minutes and about 30 minutes, depending on your individual treatment plan. Treatment is usually scheduled for five days a week for several weeks to achieve the best results. There is no recovery time, so you can return to your normal daily activities right after each session.

Patient being set up for TMS therapy

Benefits of TMS

TMS is well-tolerated by many patients and offers several advantages:

Non-invasive, with no anesthesia required
Does not affect memory or cognitive function
Minimal systemic side effects compared to medications
Ability to return to normal activities immediately after treatment

Some patients may experience mild side effects, such as headache or nausea, which are typically temporary.

Next Steps

If you are experiencing ongoing depression and have not found relief with traditional treatments, TMS may be an option for you. To learn more or to schedule an evaluation, contact the Behavioral & Mental Health Department.