What is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for depression and OCD. It uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood and emotional regulation. TMS does not involve medication or anesthesia.

Who is TMS for?

TMS is commonly recommended for adults who:

• Have not seen enough improvement with antidepressant medications
• Have experienced side effects from medications
• Prefer a non-medication treatment option

TMS may also be considered for other psychiatric conditions on an individualized basis.

How effective is TMS for depression?

Clinical studies show that TMS leads to meaningful symptom improvement in about 60% of patients who have not responded to two or more antidepressants. In comparison, trying another medication alone often results in improvement for only 5–10% of patients in this group.

How effective is TMS for OCD?

TMS has been shown to improve OCD symptoms in nearly half of patients, including those who have not responded to medications or therapy.

Does the severity of symptoms matter?

No. TMS can be effective for mild, moderate, and severe symptoms. In many cases, patients with more severe symptoms experience significant improvement.

Can TMS cure depression or OCD?

There is no permanent cure for psychiatric conditions. However, many patients experience sustained symptom improvement for months or even years after completing a full course of TMS.

What does a TMS treatment course involve?

A typical TMS course includes:

• Treatment 5 days per week
• 4–6 weeks of daily sessions
• A short taper phase afterward
• About 44 total sessions

Each session lasts approximately 5–20 minutes. Your provider will personalize the schedule.

How does TMS work?

TMS uses MRI-strength magnetic pulses to activate nerve cells in targeted brain regions. Repeated stimulation over time helps normalize brain activity and improve communication between brain networks involved in mood and anxiety.

Does TMS hurt?

Most patients do not find TMS painful. The sensation is usually described as tapping or mild pressure on the scalp and becomes easier to tolerate over time.

Is TMS safe?

Yes. TMS is considered a low-risk treatment with no evidence of long-term adverse effects. It does not cause memory loss or cognitive impairment.

Can TMS cause seizures?

The risk of seizure is extremely rare — approximately 6 in 10,000 treatments with modern equipment. All reported TMS-related seizures have occurred during active stimulation and resolved on their own without long-term effects.

Are there side effects?

Most patients experience few or no side effects. Possible effects include:

• Mild headache
• Temporary scalp discomfort
• Jaw or TMJ tenderness

These effects are usually mild and short-lived.

Are there any restrictions during TMS treatment?

No. Patients can work, drive, attend school, and continue normal daily activities before and after sessions.

Is TMS used for children or adolescents?

TMS has been studied in adolescents and appears safe, but it is not FDA-cleared for pediatric use. Insurance coverage for patients under 18 varies and is reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Will insurance cover TMS?

Most major insurance plans cover TMS for adult depression, though requirements vary. Coverage typically depends on:

• Number of antidepressant trials
• Prior therapy history

Coverage for OCD or other conditions is less common unless depression is also present. Our team assists with benefit verification and authorization.

How long does it take to see improvement with TMS?

Some patients notice symptom improvement within 1–2 weeks, while most begin improving between 2–4 weeks. Many patients continue to improve during the taper phase.

How long do TMS results last?

Some patients maintain improvement for extended periods, while others may benefit from maintenance sessions if symptoms return.