Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a unique, non-invasive treatment that utilizes magnetic fields to treat various brain health conditions by effectively regulating brain structures' neural activity found to be associated with those conditions. FDA-cleared to treat depression, OCD and smoking cessation, TMS is well-tolerated and proven effective in alleviating adverse symptoms.

During the TMS treatment process, a figure-eight coil is placed at different area of your scalp and sends out magnetic pulses that influence the neural activity of the relevant brain structures. The non-invasive treatment process does not require anesthesia, and each session lasts about 20 minutes, allowing you to incorporate them into your daily routine.

Treatment involves sitting comfortably in a chair and the operator placing a figure-8 coil at different locations on your head. The coil activates brain structures using directed electromagnetic fields that generate neuronal excitation or inhibition inside the brain. TMS has been tested in numerous clinical trials worldwide. It can even help patients who have not responded well to medications or a combination of psychotherapy and medication.

A growing body of research has found that TMS successfully alleviates symptoms of brain health conditions. These studies use gold-standard benchmarks, such as randomized, double-blind protocols and in-depth analyses, to reach evidence-based conclusions. Well-regarded journals such as The American Journal of Psychiatry, World Psychiatry, and the Journal of Psychiatric Research publish the studies. Due to its success in offering symptom relief and a favorable safety profile, TMS is FDA cleared to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and smoking cessation.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared the MagVenture TMS device to treat depression and OCD in individuals who failed to respond to antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. Several clinical trials demonstrate efficacy. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia.

TMS is a well-tolerated treatment option with a favorable safety profile. Trained professionals operate the TMS system and follow specific guidelines designed to ensure your safety. It is a non-invasive treatment course not associated with systemic side effects. The staff provides extra care to facilitate a comfortable experience for you.

A 2019 study published by the Journal of Psychiatric Research underscored TMS's advantages by finding that a combining TMS with antidepressant medication was a safe treatment course that offered significantly greater symptom relief than antidepressant medication alone. These results show that TMS can enhance existing therapies while offering its unique advantage when treating brain health issues.

Individuals undergoing TMS treatment may experience a mild headache or scalp discomfort during the procedure, with some reporting a tapping sensation in the targeted area. Generally, side effects such as headaches that may arise following the TMS procedure are mild and tend to pass quickly. There is also a very rare risk of seizure associated with the treatment. Side effects prevalent with other treatments, like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or memory effects, are absent in patients following TMS treatment.

While TMS is non-invasive and generally well-tolerated, it involves a powerful magnetic field. To ensure your safety and treatment efficacy, we strictly adhere to the following exclusion criteria.

1. Absolute Contraindications

You cannot undergo TMS if you have non-removable ferromagnetic metal or active electronics within 12 inches (30 cm) of the treatment coil. The magnetic field can heat, move, or malfunction these objects.

• Ferromagnetic Metal in the Head/Neck: Aneurysm clips (older types), stents, bullet fragments, or shrapnel.

  • Note: Standard amalgam dental fillings and MRI-safe titanium plates/screws are generally safe.

• Implanted Devices in the Head: Cochlear implants, Deep Brain Stimulators (DBS), or Vagus Nerve Stimulators (VNS).

• Ocular Implants: Metallic implants in the eyes.

2. Relative Precautions

The following conditions require a detailed risk-benefit analysis by our medical team but do not automatically disqualify you. We review these cases individually:

• Implanted Electronics (Below the Neck): Pacemakers, Spinal Cord Stimulators, or Insulin Pumps. (These are often safe if located far from the magnetic coil).

• Seizure History: Patients with a history of epilepsy or seizure disorders require specific protocol adjustments to ensure safety.

• Pregnancy: While TMS is non-systemic and often preferred over medication during pregnancy, we follow strict safety protocols for expectant mothers.

• Severe Head Trauma: A history of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) or increased intracranial pressure.

3. Age Criteria (Updated 2026)

• Adolescents (15+): Following recent FDA clearances, we now offer treatment for adolescents aged 15 to 21 who have not found relief through therapy or medication.

• No Upper Age Limit: There is no maximum age for TMS. In fact, TMS is often the preferred modality for geriatric patients (68+) because it avoids the systemic side effects, fall risks, and drug interactions common with antidepressant medications in seniors.

4. Clinical Suitability

TMS is an outpatient procedure designed for stable patients. For your safety, we may refer you to a hospital-based program if you are currently experiencing:

• Active psychosis or dissociation (Schizophrenia/Schizoaffective Disorder).

• Acute, immediate suicide risk requiring hospitalization.

• Active substance withdrawal (alcohol or benzodiazepines), which increases seizure risk.