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TMS: targeted brain stimulation, no medication required.

FDA-cleared, non-invasive, and covered by most insurance.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive regions of the brain associated with depression. It is FDA-cleared, requires no anesthesia or sedation, and has minimal side effects compared to medications.

A TMS treatment chair at Waybridge's Nashville clinic

How TMS therapy works

TMS uses a magnetic coil placed gently against your scalp to deliver focused pulses to specific areas of the brain that are underactive in depression. These pulses stimulate neural activity and help restore healthy brain function over time.

A typical treatment course consists of daily sessions (Monday through Friday) for 4-6 weeks. Each session lasts approximately 20-40 minutes depending on the protocol. You remain fully awake and can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.

At Waybridge, we use the latest TMS technology and protocols, including both standard and accelerated options. Your provider will determine the best approach based on your specific needs and response.

Jena Dunham, PMHNP-BC
TMS is remarkable because it targets the specific brain circuits involved in depression without medication. Patients often tell me they start noticing a shift in how they feel within the first few weeks.

Jena Dunham, PMHNP-BC

Clinic Lead & Nurse Practitioner, Waybridge Clinics

The evidence

TMS by the numbers

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is backed by decades of clinical research and FDA clearance for treatment-resistant depression.

50-60%

Response rate in treatment-resistant depression

FDA clearance data; multiple RCTs

30-35%

Achieve full remission from depression

O'Reardon et al., Biological Psychiatry, 2007

36

Sessions in a standard treatment course

Standard FDA-cleared protocol

Benefits

Why patients choose this treatment

  • FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder and OCD
  • Non-invasive with no anesthesia or sedation
  • Minimal side effects compared to medication
  • Return to daily activities immediately after sessions
  • Covered by most major insurance plans
  • Can be combined with medication for enhanced results

Conditions Treated

This treatment may help with

Major depressive disorderTreatment-resistant depressionOCDAnxiety (off-label)Smoking cessation (off-label)

Insurance Note

TMS therapy is covered by most major insurance plans for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Our team handles prior authorization and benefits verification for you.

Common Questions

Frequently asked questions

Does TMS hurt?+

Most patients describe the sensation as a tapping or clicking feeling on the scalp. It can feel unusual at first, but most people get used to it quickly. We adjust the intensity to keep you comfortable.

How long before I see results?+

Most patients begin noticing improvement within the first 2-3 weeks of treatment. Full results are typically seen by the end of the 4-6 week treatment course.

Are there side effects?+

Side effects are generally mild and temporary. The most common is mild scalp discomfort at the treatment site, which typically resolves during or shortly after the session. TMS does not cause the systemic side effects associated with medications.

Can I take medication while doing TMS?+

Yes. Many patients continue their medications during TMS treatment. In fact, combining TMS with medication can be more effective than either alone. Your psychiatrist will guide this decision.

What happens after the initial treatment course?+

After completing the initial course, many patients experience sustained improvement. Some may benefit from occasional maintenance sessions. Your provider will develop a long-term plan with you.

Want to learn more about TMS?

Schedule a free informational call to find out if TMS therapy could work for you.

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