TMS is an FDA-approved treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is most commonly used for Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), but is also approved for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and smoking cessation. TMS is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia or sedation, and typically produces no lasting side effects making it a safe and effective option for many patients.

During each session, the patient relaxes in a chair while a device delivers electromagnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain—often the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in the treatment of depression. This gentle stimulation helps regulate brain activity and can lead to lasting improvements in mood and cognitive function. The process, called neuromodulation, is safe and well-tolerated. Many patients begin noticing improvements after just a few sessions, with advanced protocols like SAINT delivering even faster results.

TMS is often recommended for patients who have not responded to medications or therapy, or for those seeking a medication-free treatment option. It is covered by most commercial insurance plans (including Medicare, Tricare, and some Medicaid programs for patients with TRD). Treatment plans usually involve multiple sessions over several weeks, personalized to each patient’s needs.