Answer: Most insurance plans cover TMS for treatment-resistant depression as well as OCD. We confirm with your insurance prior to beginning therapy to ensure that you are covered. We accept all insurance plans.
Answer: A typical patient will need 30-36 treatments and will typically come in 5 times a week over the course of 5-7 weeks. Each treatment typically lasts around 20 minutes. However, if you have time constraints, ask about about Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS).
Answer: For Depression, there are two treatment protocols: the rTMS protocol takes 20 minutes, and the TBS protocol takes 4 to 6 minutes.
Answer: Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) is a newer form of TMS recently cleared by the FDA that lasts only 3 minutes versus approximately 20 minutes for the normal TMS procedure. This is an option for patients who may have time constraints.
Answer: Results may vary, but many patients typically see improvement in mood and functioning within 2-3 weeks of their first treatment. Some even report improvement as soon as 1 week after starting treatment.
Answer: No, TMS does not affect focus or concentration. The patient can drive, work, and carry out all of their normal tasks after the treatment.
Answer: There are no specific medication contraindications. However, it is important to tell your physician or TMS technician about any medications you are on as changes to certain medications that affect your seizure threshold may lead reduced effectiveness or increased side effects.
Answer: TMS is suggested after you have failed to get improvement in your depression from psychotherapy and antidepressant medication or you have had side effects from the medications. TMS may be recommended as an alternative treatment for your depression or to augment your antidepressant medication or psychotherapy.
Answer: History of seizures, and metal implants above your heart level such as cochlear implants, stimulators, aneurysm clips or coils, bullet fragments, etc.