SAINT® (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy)

SAINT^® (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy)

When standard treatments haven’t provided enough relief, some patients look for a faster, more intensive option delivered in a focused timeframe. That’s where accelerated neuromodulation protocols come in: condensed, clinic-based sessions designed to target mood circuits over days rather than weeks.

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What is SAINT^®?

SAINT® is a groundbreaking, FDA-cleared form of MRI-guided neuromodulation for treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (TRMDD). Developed by doctors at Stanford University and available throughout the U.S., SAINT combines advanced brain imaging, personalized targeting and accelerated treatment protocols to deliver rapid relief for adults who have not responded to medications or therapy.

Also known as “SAINT® TMS”, Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy delivers 10 sessions of treatment per day for five days, with each session tailored to the individual’s brain activity. This accelerated approach allows many patients to achieve remission from their depression in days instead of months.

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How does SAINT^® TMS work?

SAINT uses structural and functional MRI scans to map each person’s unique brain activity. A proprietary algorithm identifies the most strongly connected region of the left dorsolateral prefontal cortex (DLPFC) in relation to the subgenual cingulate, a region known to be overactive in depression.

By delivering high dose theta-burst magnetic stimulation to this precise target, SAINT can reduce abnormal subgenual activity and restore healthier mood regulation. Treatments follow the principle of spaced learning, which includes short, focused periods of stimulation with rest intervals in between to maximize effectiveness.

Treatment

Getting started with SAINT begins with a consultation with a psychiatrist at Salma Health. If the therapy is right for you, the next step is an MRI scan to map brain activity, which guides the creation of a personalized treatment plan.

Pre-treatment: Baseline and Mapping

Clinical and psychiatric assessments.
MRI brain scans and targeting of the optimal stimulation site for SAINT

Day 1-5: Treatment Sessions

10 daily sessions (10 minutes each, with 50-minute breaks) delivered over five consecutive days.
Delivered comfortably in a clinic setting, with private resting rooms during the 50-minute breaks.
Patients remain awake and may resume normal activities afterward.
Side effects include fatigue, headaches and a slight tapping feeling on the skull.

Day 5: Evaluation

Post treatment assessment following the final round of therapy to measure symptom relief.
Discharge planning and development of a long-term support plan.‍
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Clinical results

‍In a double blind randomized controlled trial (RCT), 79% of patients achieved remission after SAINT treatment, compared to only 13% receiving sham treatment. Open label studies confirm 80-90% remission rates following the five-day treatment.‍

Getting started

Getting started with SAINT begins with a conversation. If you’re interested in exploring whether this treatment is right for you, the first step is a brief call with one of our providers. We’re here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way.

Frequently asked questions

Is SAINT safe?

SAINT is based on noninvasive magnetic stimulation similar to standard TMS and is generally well tolerated. Common, short-lived side effects can include scalp discomfort, headache, fatigue, or facial muscle twitching. Rare risks (such as seizure) are minimized with screening and appropriate dosing. People with certain metal implants or a seizure history may not be candidates.

How is SAINT different from other TMS?

SAINT (Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy) differs from standard TMS by using an accelerated schedule (multiple sessions per day over a few days), a higher total pulse dose, and often individualized targeting of mood-regulating brain networks. The goal is to condense treatment timelines and potentially enhance response for people who haven’t improved with conventional approaches.

Is SAINT a form of ECT?

SAINT is a form of accelerated transmagnetic stimulation (TMS), not electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). It does not require anesthesia, does not induce a seizure to achieve its effect, and is delivered in outpatient sessions. ECT and TMS/SAINT are different treatments with different mechanisms, logistics, and side-effect profiles.

How quickly will I notice improvement if I qualify for SAINT treatment?

Improvement timelines vary, but SAINT protocols are designed to deliver results on a faster horizon—often within days rather than weeks—because sessions are clustered and the total dose is delivered over a short course. Individual response depends on factors like symptom severity, prior treatment history, and adherence to the full protocol.

Does insurance cover SAINT treatment?

Coverage for SAINT varies by provider and plan. While some insurers are beginning to review it for approval, many patients currently pay out of pocket. Our team can assist with documentation and reimbursement support.

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Our care plans combine neuroscience-backed treatments, medication, neuromodulation, therapy, and lifestyle support to improve brain function and emotional well-being.

The Salma Health Comprehensive Intake: Your First Step Toward Personalized Brain Health

Precision Neuromodulation for Treatment-Resistant Depression

What to Expect at Your First Visit to Salma Health

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