TMS - What is it?

TMS - or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that is used to treat depression and other mental health conditions. TMS is a treatment alternative that does not require medication and can be used when traditional treatments (like medication and therapy) have not been effective. 

 

How Does it Work? 

• A device with a magnetic coil is placed against your scalp - typically over the left frontal lobe. 
• The coil releases repetitive magnetic pulses (similar to those used in an MRI)
• The pulses activate neurons in the brain by generating small electrical currents in the brain 
• Electrical currents stimulate underactive neurons to help ‘reset’ dysfunctional patterns often seen in conditions like depression 
• You continue sessions over several weeks to gradually recalibrate the brain which can result in improved mood and cognitive function

What Does it Treat?

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) 
• Anxiety Disorders 
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 

 

What Does Treatment Entail? 

TMS is an outpatient procedure that requires no anesthesia. TMS begins with the provider ‘mapping’ out your brain and typically lasts about an hour. Following the initial appointment, you will receive treatment 5 times a week for 36 total treatments. These daily treatments last about 18-20 minutes each day, and are non-invasive, meaning you are able to resume daily activities right away. 

Are There Side Effects? 

Side effects with TMS are generally mild. They can include: 

• Scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation
• Headache at the site of stimulation 
• Lightheadedness
• Very rare risk of seizures - this risk will be screened with providers prior to beginning treatment. 

What are the Benefits?

• Non-Invasive: great for those who can’t tolerate or do not respond to antidepressant medication 
• Minimal side effects compared to medication: no concern for weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or fatigue 
• Effective for the treatment of Treatment-Resistant Depression: 83% of patients responded to TMS treatment and 62% achieved remission
• Long lasting results: improvement often lasts months or even years for patients following their TMS treatment 
• Convenient: sessions are short (about 20 minutes) 5 days a week, and require no downtime

At Hopewell Health Solutions, we offer TMS with Neurostar. If you would like to learn more or have any questions, please feel free to visit our website or call 860-946-0447.

Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to Connecticut General Statutes Sec. 19a-638, Hopewell Health Solutions, LLC is applying for a certificate of need to establish an outpatient behavioral health care facility for adults at 248 Flanders Road, East Lyme, with an associated capital expenditure of $10,000. Interested persons may contact the State of Connecticut, Office of Health Strategy, Attention: Steven Lazarus, 450 Capitol Ave. MS #510HS, Hartford, CT 06134 or by phone at 860.418.7001 for additional information.