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What is TMS therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive neuromodulation treatment used when depression, OCD or related symptoms haven't improved enough with medication or therapy.
TMS uses focused magnetic pulses, similar to an MRI, to activate brain regions that are underactive in depression and involved in mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS does not involve systemic side effects, and unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it does not require anesthesia or cause memory loss.
What does TMS treat?
TMS is most commonly used when standard treatments like medication or therapy haven't provided enough relief. It may also be used off-label for other conditions when clinically indicated.
FDA-cleared uses
- Major depressive disorder, including treatment-resistant depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Anxiety symptoms associated with depression (anxious depression)
- Smoking cessation
How TMS therapy works
During TMS, a magnetic coil is placed gently on the scalp, delivering focused pulses that stimulate the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain involved in mood regulation. This stimulation helps “reset" neural pathways to promote healthier brain activity and connectivity.
TMS treatment time
TMS is delivered through daily outpatient sessions, typically five days per week over several weeks. Most sessions last about 3-20 minutes depending on the treatment protocol, and patients can return to normal activities immediately after each visit.
TMS results
TMS is backed by strong clinical evidence for treatment-resistant depression and OCD, with meaningful improvement often beginning within the first few weeks of treatment.
Results are based on peer-reviewed clinical research comparing TMS to medication for treatment-resistant depression.
SAINT®: accelerated TMS
SAINT is a specialized form of accelerated TMS that delivers treatment over a shorter, more intensive schedule than standard TMS. It uses personalized brain targeting and may be appropriate for eligible patients who need a faster treatment timeline. Learn more about how SAINT compares to traditional TMS.
Insurance & cost
Most major insurance plans cover TMS for major depressive disorder when certain clinical criteria are met—that includes Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield, Cigna, Optum, Medicare and TRICARE. Our team will help verify your benefits, coordinate prior authorization and explain any out-of-pocket costs before your first session. Self-pay patients are welcome.
TMS treatment process
TMS treatment begins with a consultation with a Salma Health psychiatrist to confirm whether it’s the right fit for your symptoms, treatment history and goals. If appropriate, our team will complete brain mapping, set the correct stimulation level and guide you through a personalized course of outpatient sessions.
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Step 1: Initial assessment
Patients begin with a consultation with a Salma Health psychiatrist to confirm whether TMS is the appropriate treatment. We’ll review your personal history, past treatments and current symptoms.
Step 2: Brain mapping and treatment setup
On the first treatment day, we will use scalp mapping to determine the correct stimulation intensity for your brain. This ensures the treatment is precise and tailored to you.
Step 3: Daily TMS sessions
- Schedule: Sessions typically occur five days a week and last 3-20 minutes each.
- Course length: Most patients complete six weeks of daily treatments (5 days per week) with an additional six sessions over three weeks.
- Experience: You will sit comfortably in a chair while the TMS coil delivers magnetic pulses. You can return to normal activities following treatment.
Step 4: Monitoring and adjustment
Throughout your course of TMS treatment, our team will check in with you regularly to track your progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Step 5: Post-treatment care
At the end of your course, we’ll meet for a final evaluation to discuss ongoing support options, which may include maintenance TMS sessions, therapy or medication as part of your long-term wellness plan.
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