TMS: Fast and Effective Treatment for Depression

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be a good option if you are struggling with depression, PTSD, OCD, or another condition that has not fully improved with medications or therapy. TMS is best suited for individuals who:

• Have tried antidepressant medications or other treatments without adequate relief
   
• Prefer a non-invasive, non-medication-based approach
   
• Are not currently experiencing uncontrolled seizures or certain medical conditions that would make TMS unsafe
   
• Are able to commit to a series of treatment sessions, typically spread out over several weeks
   

During your initial consultation, your provider will review your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals to determine if TMS is right for you.

What are the side effects of TMS?
TMS is very well tolerated, and most people experience little to no side effects. The most common side effects are mild and temporary, including:

• Mild headache or scalp discomfort at the treatment site, especially during the first few sessions
   
• Tingling or tapping sensation where the magnetic pulses are applied
   

These effects usually improve as your body adjusts to treatment and often go away within a few sessions.

Serious side effects are extremely rare, but there is a very small risk of seizure (less than 0.1%). Your provider will carefully review your medical history to make sure TMS is a safe option for you.

Overall, TMS does not cause weight gain, drowsiness, or other systemic side effects commonly associated with medications.

What are the risks of TMS?
TMS is considered a very safe treatment, especially compared to medications or more invasive procedures. The risks are rare and generally mild, but it’s important to be aware of them:

• Mild headaches or scalp discomfort are the most common and usually improve after the first few sessions.
   
• Lightheadedness or facial muscle twitching may occasionally occur during treatment but typically go away quickly.
   
• Seizures are the most serious risk, though extremely rare (less than 1 in 30,000 treatments). Your provider will screen you carefully for any conditions or medications that may increase this risk.
   
• Hearing sensitivity can occur from the clicking sound of the machine, which is why patients wear earplugs during treatment.
   

Overall, TMS does not carry the systemic risks or side effects seen with medications and does not require anesthesia or recovery time.

TMS has been shown in numerous clinical studies to be highly effective for people struggling with depression and other mental health conditions. Research shows that about 60–70% of patients with treatment-resistant depression experience significant improvement with TMS, and 30–40% achieve full remission, meaning their symptoms go away completely.

For conditions such as PTSD and OCD, growing evidence supports its effectiveness, with many patients reporting meaningful reductions in symptoms and improved quality of life.

Because TMS works by stimulating areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, it offers lasting benefits even after treatment ends. Many patients continue to feel better for months or longer, and some return for maintenance sessions if symptoms reappear.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe, non-invasive treatment for individuals struggling with PTSD. By delivering gentle magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain, TMS can help reduce symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and intrusive memories, especially when traditional therapies haven’t been fully effective. Treatments are painless, medication-free, and do not require sedation, so you can return to your daily activities immediately afterward. Many patients notice meaningful improvements in mood, sleep, and overall quality of life over the course of their treatment.