TMS Therapy Near Me in Santa Monica
TMS Therapy Near Me
One technique used to treat depression is Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS therapy is a technological procedure that is non-invasive and it stimulates the brain using repetitive magnetic pulses to improve a patient’s mood. The Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) procedure is usually done when other treatments for depression have failed. Common treatments for depression involve the use of medications or talk therapy.
Who is TMS Therapy for?
The TMS procedure is for:
- A patient who has taken depression medications but is still feeling depressed.
- A patient who has gone through psychotherapy but has not recovered.
Who is TMS Therapy not for?
This procedure is not for:
- A patient who is pregnant.
- A patient who has any metal implants or devices such as Cochlear implants for hearing unless any risks are ruled out.
- A patient who has seizures or a family history of epilepsy.
- A patient who has a brain tumor.
What to expect with TMS Therapy
Depression is treatable but sometimes initial treatments fail and the patient isn’t getting better. With TMS, a patient can improve their mood through brain stimulation. During the procedure, an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp. Electromagnetic pulses are released into your brain. These pulses calm you down by activating nerve cells whose activity levels had reduced.
The biology behind TMS is not fully understood but it targets an area of the brain that is responsible for the patient’s mood. Once the mood improves the symptoms of depression go down. With repetitive sessions, the patient gets better.
TMS is typically done daily over a period of weeks. It is done at your doctor’s clinic, therefore patients need to plan their schedules before beginning treatment. If you want to learn more about TMS therapy or you would like an evaluation to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure, give us a call.
