As an alternative to therapy, medication, and other traditional treatments, TMS can lead to lasting positive outcomes. You may benefit from TMS if other approaches have not worked to relieve your depression symptoms. Contact our team at 304.410.0082 for more information about our TMS program and mental health treatment services.
About Our TMS Program
Does it seem like you’ve tried everything for depression treatment without relief?
Harmony offers transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), an FDA-approved alternative for treatment-resistant depression.Are you curious about TMS? This depression treatment is entirely non-invasive, using magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain without surgery or medication. This safe, painless, and FDA-approved therapy works differently than other traditional treatment approaches for depression.
By stimulating areas of the brain that control mood, TMS can make a significant, lasting impact on depression. Treatment sessions are quick and simple, taking place in our comfortable office setting. Sessions take place over the course of a few weeks and cause no lasting side effects. It involves a series of appointments, typically five times a week for four to six weeks.
What to Expect from a TMS Program
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that does not require any kind of surgery or medications. The process is simple and painless—clients only need to sit in a comfortable chair while the magnetic field is administered through a coil placed against the forehead. Typically, clients report feeling relaxed during the procedure with no discomfort or pain.
A TMS treatment program is a safe and effective alternative to medications. However, it’s important to speak with your doctor about all of your treatment options. If you’ve exhausted traditional treatment options on your journey to healing, Harmony can help you determine if TMS is suitable for you. Your comfort, control, and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to answer any questions and give you the information you need to find a solution.
TMS FAQ
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about TMS therapy.
Yes, TMS is a safe and FDA-approved treatment option for depression. TMS treats your depression without medication, so it doesn’t have the long list of systemic side effects associated with traditional antidepressant drugs. It is different from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and does not have any of the side effects commonly associated with ECT.
Few clients report negative side effects, with headaches being the most common. If you do experience side effects, our clinicians will adjust the treatment to make sure you are comfortable and safe.
Administering NeuroStar TMS involves delicately placing a coil on your head. During the treatment, you will notice a gentle tapping sensation, and afterward, you can proceed with the rest of your day as normal without any interruption to your alertness or memory.
TMS therapy is appropriate for ages five and up. Individuals under 18 are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may be referred for further specialty care from another provider if necessary.
No, you do not need a referral unless you are required by your insurance to be seen by a specialist. Please contact your insurance provider with any questions regarding referrals.
If you struggle with depression, anxiety symptoms associated with depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder but have not noticed any change while taking your current medications, TMS may be right for you. If you have already tried various medications for depression but still haven’t found the necessary relief from symptoms, TMS therapy may be able to help.
Unlike other forms of treatment, such as shock therapy or surgery, which can have unpleasant side effects, TMS is a procedure that takes place in-office over a period of six weeks and only requires 19 minutes per daily session.
TMS therapy can cause significant and sometimes drastic improvements in just two to three weeks after beginning treatment. These changes might include a more positive mood, fewer days where depression symptoms are overwhelming, and an increased desire to socialize. Your friends and family may notice these positive effects before you do. To experience long-term relief from depression, you must complete an entire six-week course of TMS therapy—this will guarantee the best possible results for overcoming your depressive symptoms.
A study of real-world outcomes of TMS therapy reported an 83% response rate, meaning clients experienced notable relief, and a 62% remission rate which means their depression symptoms went away. The STAR*D study, the largest clinical trial of MDD ever conducted, showed that the rate of remission goes down with each new medication needed; if you have tried three or more medications for depression, the chance of remission was just 7%.
If you’ve tried medication to treat depression, but it has not been effective, TMS therapy may be a solution. Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare, cover this treatment. Contact us to learn more about coverage options from your insurance provider.
Learn More About TMS at Harmony Today
TMS is a safe and effective alternative to other forms of depression treatment. It’s important to speak with your doctor about all of your possible treatment options, but with TMS, you may be able to finally find the relief you’ve been looking for.
The team at Harmony is here to help you find the right depression treatment for your unique needs. We offer comprehensive assessments and a variety of effective therapy options, including TMS. Contact us today at 304.410.0082 or via our online form to get started on improving your mental health.