Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy Specialist Q&A

Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, is a non-invasive therapy that is used to treat individuals who are living with mental health conditions that don’t respond to conventional therapies. During a TMS session, electromagnetic coils are placed near the scalp. These coils are used to deliver targeted magnetic pulses to the specific areas of the brain that are associated with mood regulation. This approach is most commonly recommended to people with treatment-resistant depression or other mental health disorders that don’t improve with traditional treatments such as medication or psychotherapy.
 
The magnetic pulses emitted during TMS stimulate nerve cells in the brain, which promotes increased activity and alleviates various symptoms. TMS sessions are relatively short and can easily be incorporated into your routine, as they only last about 20 to 40 minutes. This treatment is generally well-tolerated by most individuals, though there are a few exceptions. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional to determine if TMS is a good option for your specific circumstances. The knowledgeable team at Sal Psychiatry is here to answer all your questions about this innovative approach!

TMS is conducted as a therapeutic intervention for those who are living with treatment-resistant depression. In cases where first-line treatments such as medication and psychotherapy haven’t delivered significant results, TMS is a promising alternative.
 
The objective of TMS is to stimulate nerve cells and enhance brain activity in targeted areas. In summary, the treatment is performed to enhance the quality of life of those with chronic depressive symptoms. If you would like to find out more about how this treatment can help you live better, schedule a consultation with one of our experts today!

In general, people who are typically good candidates for TMS therapy are those who are searching for a solution to symptoms caused by treatment-resistant depression. Treatment-resistant depression refers to cases of major depressive disorder (MDD) in which conventional treatments have not been successful at managing the debilitating symptoms associated with the condition. TMS offers hope for these individuals by providing a non-invasive alternative that works by sending magnetic pulses to areas of the brain related to mood regulation.
 
Potential candidates for TMS will be assessed by a healthcare professional who will consider the severity of their symptoms, their general health, and their medical history. Potential candidates must communicate candidly with their healthcare provider about their experiences and treatment history. This allows the doctor to accurately determine the most suitable course of treatment.
 
While TMS is well-tolerated by many patients, it is not suitable for everyone. Pregnant people, those with certain medical conditions, and individuals with metal implants in the head will need an extremely careful evaluation before undergoing TMS. In summary, a comprehensive consultation with a specialist is essential to assess your circumstances and find out whether TMS is a beneficial approach for you.

The ideal frequency of transcranial magnetic stimulation sessions for you depends on your unique needs and the treatment plan outlined by your healthcare provider. TMS is administered on an outpatient basis and it’s recommended that sessions occur several times a week. In the initial phase of your TMS treatment, you will need to come in for frequent sessions, usually around 4 to 5 times a week, for a duration of 6 weeks.
 
As you continue with TMS treatment, the specialist often adjusts the frequency and duration of your sessions based on your overall response and reported improvement in symptoms. Furthermore, maintenance sessions are typically recommended to sustain the benefits achieved during the initial treatment phase. While these maintenance sessions are usually less frequent, only occurring once a week or biweekly, they support the progress initially achieved. In short, the exact frequency of TMS sessions that’s optimal for you will be determined collaboratively with the mental health specialist in your initial consultation session.
 
TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) may be effective in helping you overcome depression. Visit Sal Psychiatry Services for treatment. For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are located at 13132 Studebaker Rd, Suite 10, Norwalk, CA 90650. We serve patients from Norwalk, CA, Artesia CA, Downey CA, Lakewood CA, Cudahy CA, Cypress CA, and surrounding areas.