What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?

TMS is a treatment that uses a magnet, similar in strength to those in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machines, to activate nerve cells in the part of your brain that regulates your mood. TMS specifically targets the underactive parts of your brain that may contribute to depression.

The magnetic impulses are believed to have a beneficial effect on the brain chemicals (neurotransmitters) involved in mood, leading to relief of burdensome mental health symptoms.

Because TMS can have a long-term effect on neurotransmitter levels, this treatment may make lasting remission possible, particularly when combined with psychotherapy or telepsychiatry.

Wholesome Psychiatry LLC uses the cutting-edge TMS system from NeuroStar, giving you access to the latest state-of-the-art innovation in the world of non-medication psychiatric treatment.

What conditions does transcranial magnetic stimulation treat?

TMS can be a good treatment option for people with major depressive disorder who haven’t responded to antidepressant medications. It’s also helpful for people with depression who experience comorbid (co-occurring) anxiety.

The treatment can also be part of a larger treatment plan for patients who are suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Patients who suffer serious side effects from antidepressant medications, such as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and dry mouth, may also find TMS a good treatment option.

What happens during transcranial magnetic stimulation?

TMS sessions take place in the Wholesome Psychiatry LLC office, and you’re awake for the whole treatment. Before treatment, your provider places a cushioned coil against your head. The coil delivers magnetic pulses during the therapy.

You may experience tapping, tingling, or warmth around the area of the coil, but it’s not painful, and any of those sensations decrease with future treatments. Treatments occur daily, taking around 19-37 minutes per session, with an average treatment course of 4-6 weeks. After TMS, you can go back to your normal activities right away. The treatment doesn’t affect your sleep or memory.

Does insurance cover transcranial magnetic stimulation?

Yes, and most major insurers, including Medicare, now recognize the benefits of TMS as a powerful treatment for depression.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is helping many people find a new way to leave depression and anxiety behind. To learn more about this exciting new treatment option, call Wholesome Psychiatry LLC or click on the online appointment maker today to set up a consultation with us, so that together we can achieve full remission and restore balance in your life.