FAQs

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TMS is FDA-cleared for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and smoking cessation. It is most effective for individuals who:
Have not responded to medication or therapy
Experience side effects from antidepressants
Are looking for a non-invasive, drug-free alternative
Yes, Deep TMS is FDA-cleared and considered safe and well-tolerated. The most common side effects are mild headaches or scalp discomfort, which usually resolve with continued treatment. The risk of serious side effects, such as seizures, is extremely low (less than 0.1% in people without a seizure disorder)
If Deep TMS does not provide sufficient relief, other options include:
Additional TMS sessions (sometimes a second course enhances response)
Spravato (esketamine) can provide further relief
Medication adjustments or psychotherapy
Alternative neuromodulation therapies, such as ECT or neurofeedback
Patients typically experience a tapping or tingling sensation on the scalp during treatment, which usually fades as they get accustomed to it. Some may feel mild discomfort or pressure, but this typically improves after the first few treatments. Involuntary muscle twitching in the face or jaw due to magnetic stimulation may occur but stops once the session ends. The TMS device produces a repetitive clicking or tapping noise during treatment, and earplugs are provided to protect hearing and reduce any discomfort from the sound.
Deep TMS (dTMS):
Uses an H-coil (patented by BrainsWay) that generates a wider and deeper magnetic field.
Penetrates up to 4 cm into the brain, reaching deeper structures like the anterior cingulate cortex and insula, which play a role in mood and motivation.
Studies suggest higher efficacy in some cases of treatment-resistant depression and OCD.
Less precise coil positioning is needed due to the broader stimulation area.
FDA-approved for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), OCD, and smoking cessation.
Traditional TMS (rTMS):
Uses a Figure-8 coil that generates a focused magnetic field.
Penetrates approximately 1.5–2 cm into the brain.
Primarily targets the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which is involved in mood regulation.
More localized stimulation, requiring precise coil positioning.
FDA-approved for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), OCD, and smoking cessation.
TMS is covered by most insurance companies (BlueCross, Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare, Medicare, etc.), though individual costs may vary depending on each patient's specific plan. For those not using insurance—whether self-pay or seeking off-label treatments—flexible payment options, including treatment packages, are offered to make this therapy more accessible.
Standard Protocol: Each session lasts 20–30 minutes, typically 5 days per week for 4–6 weeks, followed by a tapering phase if needed.
Accelerated Protocol: Multiple sessions per day over a shorter period (e.g., 5–10 days) are offered, reducing overall treatment duration while maintaining effectiveness.
Patients can resume normal activities immediately after each session, as no sedation or recovery time is required.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS or dTMS) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medical treatment, it can have some side effects. Fortunately, most are mild and temporary.
Common Side Effects of Deep TMS: Mild headache (most common, usually subsides after a few sessions) Scalp discomfort or tingling at the treatment site Jaw or facial muscle twitch
Most patients feel completely fine and resume their normal activities right away. A mild headache or scalp tenderness may occur, especially after the first few sessions, but usually resolves quickly. Some patients experience a subtle mood boost after several sessions, though full therapeutic effects may take a few weeks. Overall, Deep TMS is well-tolerated, and any discomfort typically decreases over time as patients adjust to the treatment.
No, you do not need to stop taking medication or participating in psychotherapy while undergoing Deep TMS treatment.
Medication: Most patients continue their prescribed antidepressants or other medications during treatment. In some cases, a provider may adjust medications based on treatment response.
Psychotherapy: TMS can be complementary to therapy or other treatments like TMS, and many patients continue talk therapy alongside treatment for the best results.
The percentage of patients who successfully discontinue medication after TMS varies based on individual response, diagnosis, and treatment history. However, research suggests that: About 30–50% of patients achieve full remission and may no longer need antidepressants. About 65–85% experience significant symptom reduction, sometimes allowing for dose reduction or medication changes.
Some patients may still require maintenance medication, psychotherapy, or preservation / maintenance TMS sessions to sustain improvements.
Important disclaimer: Decisions about stopping medication should always be made in consultation with your healthcare provider to ensure continued stability and safety.