FAQs

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. TMS is FDA-cleared for certain conditions, including major depressive disorder, and may be considered for appropriate patients after a clinical evaluation.

During TMS, a magnetic coil is positioned near the patient’s head to deliver controlled magnetic pulses. These pulses stimulate targeted brain regions involved in mood regulation. A typical course involves repeated treatment sessions, with the exact schedule determined by the provider and the treatment protocol being used.

Coverage for TMS varies by insurance plan and patient circumstances. Some insurers cover TMS for eligible patients with major depressive disorder, but requirements may include specific diagnoses, previous treatment attempts, symptom severity, or prior authorization. Our team can help you understand the insurance process, but coverage decisions are ultimately made by your insurance carrier.

We begin with a comprehensive assessment of your symptoms, medical and psychiatric history, current medications, previous treatments, and treatment goals. Your provider uses this information to determine appropriate options and develop a care plan based on your individual needs.

Not necessarily. Mental health conditions can involve several areas of a person’s life, so treatment may include more than one approach when clinically appropriate. Depending on your needs, care may involve medication management, psychotherapy, behavioral health services, TMS, or coordination with other healthcare providers.

Yes. Depression is a serious medical condition, but it is treatable. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle and behavioral strategies, or other approaches depending on the individual’s symptoms and clinical situation. For people who have not responded adequately to previous treatments, additional options such as TMS may be considered when clinically appropriate.

Tell your healthcare provider if your symptoms continue, your medication does not seem effective, or you are experiencing side effects. Your provider may review the diagnosis, dosage, medication adherence, treatment duration, other medications, and potential alternative approaches before making changes.

Treatment response varies from person to person, and medication changes should be made with guidance from a qualified healthcare professional rather than stopped suddenly.

Support from people you trust can be valuable, but psychotherapy provides a structured clinical setting with a trained professional. Therapists use evidence-based therapeutic approaches to help patients understand thoughts, emotions, behaviors, relationships, and coping patterns.

A therapist also provides a professional perspective and maintains appropriate boundaries and confidentiality within applicable legal and ethical requirements.

Telehealth may be an option for eligible patients when remote care is clinically appropriate and permitted by applicable requirements. Virtual appointments can make follow-up care more convenient for people who have transportation challenges, live farther away, or have difficulty attending every appointment in person.