When it comes to mental health treatments, traditional therapies like medication and talk therapy often come to mind. While these options can be effective, they aren’t always enough, especially for those who experience medication-resistant depression, OCD, or anxiety. That’s where Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) comes in—an innovative, FDA-cleared treatment that offers a non-invasive alternative for individuals struggling to find relief. We're pleased to announce that Deep TMS is now available at University Place TMS Clinic.
What is Deep TMS Therapy?
Deep TMS (Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an advanced form of TMS therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific brain areas involved in mood regulation. The treatment is designed to reach deeper layers of the brain than standard TMS, targeting regions associated with depression and OCD. Since Deep TMS is non-invasive, it doesn’t require anesthesia, incisions, or lengthy recovery time, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately after each session.
How Does Deep TMS Work?
During a Deep TMS session, patients wear a specialized helmet containing coils that deliver brief magnetic pulses to the prefrontal cortex, a region involved in emotion regulation. These pulses are carefully calibrated to stimulate neural activity, helping "reset" brain areas associated with depressive or compulsive symptoms. A typical treatment plan includes daily 20-minute sessions over several weeks, and many patients begin noticing symptom improvement within just a few weeks.
What Conditions Can Deep TMS Treat?
Deep TMS has received FDA clearance for the treatment of both major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is especially beneficial for individuals who have not experienced sufficient relief from other treatment options, such as medication or cognitive behavioral therapy. The therapy has also shown promise in ongoing studies for treating other conditions, including anxious depression and PTSD.
Benefits of Deep TMS Therapy
Deep TMS therapy offers numerous benefits that make it a compelling option for those dealing with medication-resistant conditions:
- Non-Invasive: Unlike surgical or invasive treatments, Deep TMS requires no anesthesia, incisions, or downtime.
- No Systemic Side Effects: Deep TMS does not involve medication, so there are fewer systemic side effects like those associated with antidepressants or antipsychotics.
- Quick and Convenient: Sessions are relatively brief (about 20 minutes), and patients can resume their daily activities immediately.
- Long-Term Efficacy: Many patients report sustained relief from symptoms even after completing their Deep TMS treatment course.
What to Expect During a Deep TMS Session
Patients can expect each session to last around 20 minutes, with a total treatment course typically lasting about 4–6 weeks. Here’s a step-by-step of what a session looks like:
1. Preparation: The patient sits in a comfortable chair, and the technician helps them put on the TMS helmet.
2. Stimulation: The device delivers magnetic pulses, which may feel like a tapping sensation on the scalp. Some patients report mild discomfort, but it generally lessens with time.
3. Post-Session: After the session, patients can return to their normal activities with no restrictions.
Is Deep TMS Right for You?
If you’ve struggled with depression or OCD and found little relief through traditional treatments, Deep TMS could be a promising option. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if you’re a good candidate for the therapy, as they can assess your symptoms and treatment history.
In Summary
Deep TMS Therapy represents an exciting frontier in the treatment of mental health conditions like depression and OCD, providing hope and relief for those who may not have benefited from standard treatment options. With a high success rate, minimal side effects, and a non-invasive approach, Deep TMS is quickly becoming a preferred alternative for people looking to regain control over their mental health.
University Place TMS Clinic is now offering this transformative treatment. If you’re interested in learning more or seeing if Deep TMS might be right for you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
