What Does TMS Treat?
TMS is used to treat a variety of mental health and neurological conditions. The FDA has approved TMS therapy for several conditions, including:
Does TMS Therapy Really Work?
Yes, TMS therapy is clinically proven to help individuals with depression, OCD, and other conditions when traditional treatments are ineffective. It is FDA-approved and supported by clinical research. Many patients experience significant relief from their symptoms.
What Is the Difference Between ECT and TMS?
TMS and ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) are both brain stimulation therapies used to treat depression, but they differ significantly:
- ECT involves inducing a brief seizure under general anesthesia and is often used for severe or treatment-resistant cases
- TMS is performed while the patient is awake and does not involve sedation, seizures, or electrical currents.
Instead of electricity, TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, making it a gentler and more targeted treatment option.
Is TMS Therapy Safe?
TMS is considered safe and well‑tolerated. It’s non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and generally causes only mild, temporary side effects like scalp discomfort or headaches.
What Are the Side Effects of TMS?
TMS is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of side effects. The most commonly reported issues are
- Mild to moderate headaches
- Scalp discomfort
These effects usually resolve within a few days and are easily managed. TMS does not carry the systemic side effects often seen with antidepressant medications.
Will TMS Affect My Memory or Personality?
No. One of the advantages of TMS is its ability to precisely target the brain areas involved in depression, without affecting other regions. TMS does not cause memory loss or impair thinking. It also doesn’t alter your personality—but as depression lifts, many patients experience improved mood, energy, and cognitive clarity.
Does TMS Hurt?
Most patients tolerate TMS well. During early sessions, the tapping sensation on the scalp may cause mild discomfort. Up to 50% of patients report some soreness or headaches during the first week, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, Advil, or aspirin. As treatment progresses, these symptoms typically diminish
How Long Does TMS Take to Work?
TMS treatment is typically administered five days a week for four to six weeks. Response time varies by individual. Some patients begin to feel better after two weeks, while others may need more than 30 sessions to notice improvement. It’s common not to see changes in mood during the first few weeks, so consistency and patience are key to successful outcomes.
Do I Need to Stop My Current Medications?
Not necessarily. Whether you continue or adjust your current medications will be discussed during your initial consultation. Most patients continue their prescribed medications throughout the course of TMS therapy.
Am I a Good Candidate for TMS?
If you’re considering TMS, the first step is to contact our team at 201-839-2675 to begin the screening process. We’ll ask you to complete a few forms related to your treatment history and personal background. After that, we’ll schedule a consultation with one of our TMS providers to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.
Does Insurance Cover TMS?
Yes. TMS is covered by most commercial insurance plans for patients who meet specific clinical criteria. Some insurance plans may require co-payments, and our team will help you understand your coverage and advocate on your behalf to ensure access to treatment.
Is TMS Therapy FDA-approved?
Yes. TMS was first FDA‑cleared in October 2008 for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder in adults. Approvals have since expanded to include OCD (2018), migraines, and—more recently—adolescents aged 15+ with depression.
