Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

TMS for Depression

An FDA-cleared, non-invasive option for depression — especially when medication hasn't been enough.

  • FDA-cleared
  • Non-invasive
  • Medication-free
The overview

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses gentle, focused magnetic pulses to stimulate the areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It was first cleared by the FDA for major depressive disorder in 2008, and today it is an established option for people who have not found enough relief from antidepressant medication.

Why people choose TMS for depression

Unlike medication, TMS does not circulate through the whole body, so it avoids many common side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue. Sessions are done in an outpatient setting, require no anesthesia, and let you drive yourself home and return to your day right afterward.

What the science shows

In clinical practice, a meaningful share of people who try TMS for treatment-resistant depression experience a significant reduction in symptoms, and many reach full remission. Your clinician can walk you through what the evidence means for your specific situation.

TMS is not a substitute for emergency care. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available free, 24/7.

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What to expect at your first visit

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01

Safe and well tolerated

  • No anesthesia or sedation
  • No systemic medication side effects
  • Return to your day immediately after each session
02

How a course works

  • Sessions typically five days a week
  • Each visit is short — often under 30 minutes
  • A full course usually spans several weeks
03

Personalized care

  • A full evaluation before treatment begins
  • Brain regions mapped to you individually
  • Progress reviewed with your clinician throughout
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Good to know

Questions, answered

The things people most often ask about TMS for Depression — answered plainly. Anything else, we're one call away, any hour.

Talk to a real person
Does TMS hurt?

Most people feel a light tapping sensation on the scalp during treatment. It can feel unusual at first but is generally well tolerated, and any discomfort typically eases within the first few sessions.

How soon might I feel a difference?

Everyone responds differently. Some people notice changes within a couple of weeks, while for others improvement builds gradually over the full course of treatment.

Is TMS covered by insurance?

Many insurers cover TMS for major depressive disorder, often after other treatments have been tried. Our team can help you verify your specific coverage before you begin.

Can I keep taking my medication?

In most cases yes. TMS is frequently used alongside medication and therapy. Any changes to your medication should always be made with your prescriber.

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