If you have been researching treatments for mood disorders, such as clinical depression, anxious depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), you may have come across TMS. At TMS of the Carolinas, we offer this non-invasive treatment to patients who have not found relief with traditional treatments. TMS therapy works by stimulating certain areas of the brain that influence your mood. Although your treatment will be tailored to your needs, it can be beneficial to know what a typical treatment course with TMS looks like.
What Is TMS Therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to activate specific areas of your brain that help control your mood. Increasing your brain activity in these regions can help stabilize your mood and relieve you of your symptoms. TMS has been scientifically proven to be effective in many studies, including those involving treatment-resistant patients with depression.
Key Benefits
TMS therapy can treat certain mental health conditions, such as various forms of depression and OCD. Some of the key benefits include:
- No downtime
- Minimal side effects
- Non-invasive and medication-free procedure
- Directly targets symptoms at the brain level
- Personalized and adaptable therapy strategies
- 19-minute sessions that fit seamlessly into your schedule
After a few weeks into your treatment course with TMS therapy, you may find relief from your symptoms. Remission rates after successful treatment often vary, but many of our patients remain symptom-free for a year or more.
Our specialists are here to guide you on your journey toward improved wellness.
Your Initial Consultation
Before you begin TMS therapy, you will have a consultation with our specialists at TMS of the Carolinas. We will discuss your medical history, symptoms, and current medications. We will explain what a typical treatment course with TMS looks like and answer any questions you may have. Our team will also provide you with information on what to expect during the sessions, so you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.
Your TMS Therapy Sessions
During your first TMS therapy session, your therapist will “map” the precise area of your brain that will be stimulated. This involves placing the coil of the device gently against your head to identify the ideal location and intensity for your treatment. We will mark this spot on your cap, which you will then wear for your subsequent sessions. This step is important because it ensures that the magnetic waves target the specific brain areas linked with mood regulation.
Our TMS therapy treatment is provided as a multi-session course, with each session lasting 19 minutes. You can typically expect each session of your treatment course with TMS to go as follows:
- Sit in a comfortable chair
- The TMS device delivers magnetic waves to activate the targeted brain regions
- Relax, read, or listen to music throughout the session
- The session is complete after roughly 19 minutes
TMS therapy is non-invasive, so you can resume your normal activities immediately after each session.
Tracking Your Progress, Maintenance, and Follow-Up
Throughout your treatment, your care team will closely monitor your progress. A typical treatment course with TMS results in gradual improvements in mood and energy levels, with many of our patients noticing improvements after a few weeks of treatment. By the end of the course, most of our patients experience significant relief from their symptoms.
After completing your initial TMS treatment course, your care team will work with you to determine if you could benefit from follow-up or maintenance sessions. Mood disorders are complex conditions, and every patient’s journey is unique, so we want to make sure that you find lasting relief. Our practice offers a compassionate, patient-centered approach to ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Start Your Treatment Course for TMS Today – Book an Appointment
If you would like to learn more about what a typical treatment course with TMS looks like and how it can help you with your mood disorder, speak with our office today to begin regaining control of your mood and your life.
