At Washington Behavioral Medicine Associates (WBMA), we offer cutting-edge transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions.
TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, offering hope to those who haven’t responded well to medication.
What Is TMS Therapy?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses focused magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. These pulses activate regions with reduced activity in people suffering from conditions like major depressive disorder. The treatment is completely non-invasive and does not involve anesthesia or sedation. Patients remain awake and alert throughout the session.
TMS has been FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and ongoing research supports its use for anxiety, PTSD, Tourette’s syndrome, and other neuropsychiatric conditions.
How TMS Works
During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against the scalp near the prefrontal cortex, an area linked to mood regulation. The coil delivers short bursts of magnetic pulses that generate small electrical currents, stimulating or inhibiting the neurons underneath.
Each treatment session typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the protocol, and is performed 5 days a week for 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients begin noticing positive changes in their mood and energy within 1 to 2 weeks.
Who Is a Candidate for TMS?
TMS may be a good option if:
You have major depression that hasn’t improved with antidepressants
You experience side effects from medications that limit your options
You are looking for a non-drug, outpatient treatment alternative
However, TMS is not recommended for individuals with certain implanted medical devices (e.g., pacemakers, cochlear implants, deep brain stimulators) or a history of seizures. A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation is required to confirm candidacy.
What to Expect During Treatment
Initial Consultation: Our clinicians conduct a comprehensive evaluation to ensure safety and eligibility.
Treatment Sessions: You’ll be seated in a comfortable chair with the TMS coil placed on your scalp. You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation during the pulses.
Post-Treatment: No downtime is required. Patients can drive home and resume normal activities immediately.
Common Side Effects
TMS side effects are generally mild, and the treatment is well-tolerated by most patients. Some individuals may experience:
Mild scalp discomfort
Headaches
Lightheadedness
These side effects typically decrease after the first few sessions. Severe side effects are rare.
Why Choose WBMA for TMS Therapy?
Experienced Team: Our clinicians are highly trained in interventional psychiatry and have extensive experience delivering TMS.
Integrated Mental Health Services: TMS is part of our broader mental health approach, which includes therapy, medication management, and advanced treatments.
Insurance Support: We help navigate insurance approvals, and TMS is often covered by major providers for depression.
Personalized Care Plans: Every TMS protocol is tailored to your unique clinical profile for optimal results.
Take the First Step
If you’re living with treatment-resistant depression or other conditions TMS may help with, our team at WBMA is here to support you.
Contact us to schedule your TMS consultation and learn if this innovative therapy is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About TMS Therapy
What is TMS therapy?
TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a noninvasive treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. It is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression and OCD and is being studied for use in anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions.
Does TMS therapy work?
Yes, TMS therapy has been shown to be effective for individuals who have not found relief from traditional antidepressants. Clinical studies report that up to 70-80% of patients experience significant symptom improvement, and many achieve full remission.
Is TMS therapy safe?
TMS therapy is considered safe and well-tolerated. Most side effects are mild, such as scalp discomfort or headache during the first few sessions. Serious side effects are rare, and patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
How much does TMS therapy cost?
The cost of TMS therapy typically ranges from $300 to $500 per session. A standard course includes 30–36 sessions, totaling approximately $9,000 to $15,000 before insurance. However, many patients pay significantly less with insurance coverage. For a personalized estimate based on your treatment plan and insurance, please contact our office.
Does Medicaid cover TMS therapy?
Medicaid coverage for TMS therapy varies by state. Some state Medicaid programs do cover TMS when specific medical necessity criteria are met. Patients should contact their Medicaid plan or our office to verify eligibility and coverage requirements.
Is TMS therapy covered by insurance?
Yes, most major insurance providers cover TMS therapy for treatment-resistant depression. Prior authorization is usually required, and certain clinical criteria must be met. Our team can help you navigate the approval process.
