how TMS worksUnderstanding TMS Treatment
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-drug, non-invasive treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood regulation.
Research has shown that conditions such as depression, OCD, and anxious depression are associated with changes in activity within certain regions of the brain.
TMS is designed to activate these underactive areas, helping to improve communication between brain cells and support healthier brain function over time.
At Lighthouse Mental Wellness, we offer NeuroStar® Advanced TMS Therapy, an FDA-cleared treatment available for eligible patients ages 15 and older.
Unlike medication, TMS does not circulate throughout the body. Treatment is focused on specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, allowing patients to remain awake, alert, and engaged throughout the process.
What to Expect During Treatment
Starting a new treatment can feel overwhelming. The good news is that TMS therapy is a straightforward outpatient procedure performed right here in our office.
Before Treatment
You'll relax in a comfortable treatment chair while a trained member of our team positions the NeuroStar treatment device.
A small treatment coil is placed gently against your head and adjusted specifically for your treatment plan.
After Treatment
Most NeuroStar treatment sessions take approximately 19 minutes.
Once your session is complete, you can immediately return to work, school, driving, exercise, or other daily activities. There is no recovery period and no downtime required.
During Treatment
The NeuroStar system delivers targeted magnetic pulses to the treatment area of the brain.
You may hear clicking sounds and feel a light tapping sensation on your scalp during treatment. Most patients become comfortable with the sensation quickly and spend their treatment time listening to music, chatting with staff, reading, or simply relaxing.
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Medication works by circulating throughout the body and affecting brain chemistry through the bloodstream. While medication can be highly effective for many people, others may continue to experience symptoms or struggle with unwanted side effects.
TMS takes a different approach.
Instead of affecting the entire body, NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy uses targeted magnetic stimulation to activate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
Many patients explore TMS when medication alone has not provided the relief they were hoping for or when side effects become difficult to manage.
*Every patient is different. TMS is not intended to replace every treatment approach and may be used alongside medication or other mental health treatments as part of a comprehensive care plan.
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Although both treatments are used to help individuals with depression, TMS and Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) are very different procedures.
TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation. It does not induce seizures, and patients remain awake and alert throughout treatment.
NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy is performed in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return immediately to their normal daily activities following each session.
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NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy is one of the most widely used TMS treatments available today. Millions of treatments have been delivered nationwide, helping patients explore a different path when traditional treatment approaches have not provided adequate relief.
For many individuals living with depression, OCD, or anxious depression, TMS offers hope, flexibility, and the opportunity to pursue treatment without adding another medication to their daily routine.
NeuroStar TMS Therapy Benefits & Highlights
Non-Invasive
No surgery or anesthesia required.
Awake and Alert
Resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Covered by Many Insurance Plans
Many patients qualify for insurance coverage.
FDA Cleared
Approved for multiple mental health conditions.
Ages 15+
Available for eligible adolescents and adults.
19-Minute
Sessions
Convenient treatment completed in our office.
Proven
Technology
Backed by one of the largest clinical data sets in TMS treatment.
Non-Drug Treatment
No medication enters the bloodstream, and current medications don’t need to be adjusted.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're interested in learning whether you may be a candidate for NeuroStar® Advanced TMS Therapy, begin with our confidential online self-assessment. After the survey is completed, our TMS Coordinator will reach out.
Is TMS Right for Your Condition?
If you're interested in learning whether you may be a candidate for NeuroStar® Advanced TMS Therapy, begin with our confidential online self-assessment. After the survey is completed, our TMS Coordinator will reach out.
Learn If TMS is right for you.
Choosing a treatment option is an important decision. We encourage you to explore the resources below to learn more about whether TMS may be right for you.