What to Expect During Your First TMS Therapy Session

Starting transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy can be a big step, especially if you're seeking relief from depression, anxiety, or OCD. TMS therapy is a noninvasive treatment designed to support individuals who haven't found success with other treatments. At Serenity Mental Health Centers throughout the United States, we are dedicated to making your TMS experience comfortable, informative, and effective. Here's what you can expect during your first session and answers to common questions. For more information about TMS therapy for anxiety, depression, OCD, and more, contact your nearest location to schedule a consultation.

What is TMS therapy?

TMS therapy is an innovative treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Often recommended when traditional treatments like medication or talk therapy don't provide sufficient relief, TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, and OCD works by enhancing brain activity in regions linked to these conditions. This targeted approach helps reduce symptoms and offers patients greater control over their mental well-being, opening new pathways to improved mental health.

How is TMS therapy done?

Your first session will begin with a consultation to review your mental health background and to discuss any questions you may have. On the day of your TMS therapy treatment, you'll sit in a comfortable chair while a technician places a magnetic coil on your head. This coil delivers short pulses to specific brain regions associated with mood regulation. You might feel a tapping sensation on your scalp, which is generally considered painless and easy to get used to. TMS sessions usually last around 20 – 40 minutes, depending on your treatment plan.

What are the benefits of TMS therapy?

TMS therapy offers numerous benefits. Some key benefits include:

• Noninvasive treatment
• Minimal side effects
• Improved mood and mental clarity
• Alternative for medication-resistant patients
• Convenient and time-efficient

Does TMS therapy have any side effects?

TMS therapy is known for having minimal side effects, especially compared to many traditional treatment options like medication. Most people tolerate TMS therapy well, with only a few experiencing mild discomfort during or after the session. Common side effects include a slight tapping sensation on the scalp where the magnetic coil is placed or a minor headache, which usually fades soon after the session. Some patients report temporary scalp sensitivity or tingling, but these effects tend to diminish over time as the body adjusts to the treatment. Serious side effects are very rare, making TMS a safe, noninvasive option for those looking for an alternative to medications or more invasive procedures. At our locations, our team monitors your comfort closely, ensuring each TMS session is as pleasant and effective as possible.

How long does TMS therapy last?

The TMS therapy process usually involves multiple sessions over several weeks, with each session building on the last to produce lasting results. While most people won't notice an immediate change in mood or symptoms after the first session, improvements typically become more apparent after 2 – 4 weeks of consistent therapy. The gradual improvement allows your brain to adjust to the changes, providing sustainable relief from symptoms over time.

What's next after your first TMS therapy session?

Following your first session, you'll be able to continue with your day as usual. Most patients undergo multiple sessions weekly for an optimal outcome. As you continue TMS therapy, we will monitor your progress, adjust your treatment as needed, and ensure you're getting the best possible outcome.

Start TMS therapy

If you're ready to explore a new, innovative approach to mental wellness with TMS therapy, our team at Serenity Mental Health Centers throughout the United States is here to help. Contact a location near you today to learn more about TMS therapy for OCD, depression, anxiety, and more, and take the first step toward a happier, healthier mind.