Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

What Is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) is a safe and proven non-drug treatment for depression and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). TMS treatment works by sending magnetic pulses that stimulate neurons in the area of the brain responsible for mood. TMS is FDA-cleared and non-invasive.

Who Can Get TMS Treatment?

Patients who are 18 years or older and have Major Depressive Disorder or OCD may be candidates for TMS treatment if they have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medications. Doctors will use medication dosing records and screening scores among other measures to determine if TMS is the right solution.

What To Expect:

Your First Session

A TMS-trained provider will be with you during your first session to complete the initial treatment set up.

• You will be given a cap to place on your head. This cap will be marked by your provider with measurements specific to you. You will wear this cap during each of your sessions so the treatment is given in the same area each time.
• You will be asked to sit in an observation chair with your hands in your lap and palms facing upward.
• While you remain sitting, your provider will begin testing. This test is to identify your motor threshold. You will hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping on your scalp. You will also notice movement in your right thumb as the magnetic fields are changed by your provider. This is normal and essential for your provider to determine the correct strength of the magnetic field.
• After measurements are completed, you will be given your first treatment. TMS treatments last 18.8 – 37.5 minutes. One treatment is given per day, 5 times per week, over a period of 4-6 weeks.

During The Procedure

Everyone tolerates procedures differently. At ARC Psychiatry, we want to help make this experience as comfortable as we can. Below are options available to you to help ease any tensions you may have:

• Soft, Ambient Light
• TV with Roku Capabilities
• Calming Music
• Essential Oils
• Earplugs
• A Pillow – with a pillow cover solely for you

A staff member will always be with you during the procedure to ensure you are comfortable. Never hesitate to speak up if you ever feel uneasy about the treatment.

Following The Procedure

The great thing about this procedure is the ability to resume your normal daily routine – including driving! Some may experience mild headaches or slight discomfort where the stimulation was located. This is normal and typically lessens as treatments progress. If needed, you can treat these discomforts with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Typically, patients notice improvement around the fourth week of treatment. This varies for each patient. Continue to discuss your levels of depression, OCD symptoms, and/or anxiety with your provider so they can help monitor your progress.