Transcranial magnetic stimulation, often called TMS therapy, is a noninvasive treatment used to help people with depression and related mental health conditions. TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
At Prosperous Health, TMS is just one of many behavioral health services we offer. TMS does not involve surgery, sedation, or medication. Sessions are completed while you are awake, and most people return to normal activities right after treatment.
If depression or anxiety has not improved with medication or therapy, it may be time to explore a different option.
Call (888) 308-4057 to see if this approach may be right for you.
What “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation” Means
Transcranial means across the skull. Magnetic stimulation refers to the use of magnetic energy to activate targeted brain cells. Together, TMS describes a therapy that influences brain activity without entering the body or changing brain chemistry directly.
How TMS Is Different From Medication or Therapy
For many behavioral health conditions, medication and therapy are the most common approaches. TMS therapy represents a different way that is unlike the others:
- Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS does not circulate through the bloodstream or affect the entire brain. Instead, it focuses on specific regions linked to mood.
- Unlike talk therapy, TMS works at a neurological level rather than through conversation or behavior change.
Many people use TMS alongside therapy and medication as part of a broader care plan.
How TMS Therapy Works in the Brain
TMS therapy works by directly influencing the communication between specific brain areas. Rather than treating symptoms alone, it focuses on brain regions involved in mood, motivation, and emotional regulation. Understanding how these areas function helps explain why TMS can be effective when other treatments have not provided enough relief.
Brain Areas Involved in Mood Regulation
Research shows that depression and anxiety are often linked to reduced activity in areas of the brain responsible for mood control, motivation, and emotional balance. TMS targets these underactive regions, most commonly the left prefrontal cortex.
How Magnetic Pulses Affect Neural Activity
The magnetic pulses used in TMS create small electrical signals in brain cells. These signals help stimulate neurons that are not communicating effectively. Over time, this stimulation can improve how mood-related circuits function.
Neuroplasticity and Repeated Sessions
TMS works gradually. Repeated sessions encourage neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to form new connections. This is why TMS is delivered over several weeks rather than as a single treatment.
What Conditions Is TMS Therapy Used For?
TMS therapy is used to treat specific mental health conditions where changes in brain activity play a clear role. It is most often recommended when symptoms have not improved with standard treatments or when other options have caused unwanted side effects.
TMS Therapy for Depression
TMS is FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder, especially when symptoms have not improved with antidepressant medication. It is commonly used for treatment-resistant depression.
When TMS May Be Considered for Anxiety
TMS may be considered when anxiety occurs alongside depression. Anxiety on its own requires careful evaluation, as responses to TMS can vary.
Conditions Where TMS May Not Be Appropriate
TMS may not be appropriate for individuals with certain neurological conditions, metal implants in the head, or a history of seizures. A full medical screening is required before starting treatment.
What a TMS Therapy Session Is Like
Many people feel unsure about what to expect from TMS therapy, especially during the first few visits. The process is structured, predictable, and designed to be as comfortable as possible. Understanding how sessions are organized can help reduce anxiety and make it easier to feel prepared for treatment.
Before the First Session
Before treatment begins, a clinical assessment is completed. This includes a mental health evaluation, a review of medical history, and brain mapping to determine the optimal stimulation location.
During Treatment
During a session, you sit comfortably in a chair while a magnetic coil is placed against your head. You will hear clicking sounds and feel light tapping sensations. Sessions usually last under an hour.
After Each Session
There is no recovery time. Most people return to work or daily activities immediately after treatment.
Is TMS Therapy Safe?
It is normal to have questions about safety when exploring a new treatment option. TMS therapy has been carefully studied and is delivered under medical supervision to prioritize comfort and well-being. At Prosperous Health, every treatment decision is guided by careful screening and clinical oversight, and our team is available to talk through concerns and help you decide what feels right for you.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects include mild scalp discomfort, headaches, or facial muscle twitching during sessions. These effects often lessen over time.
Rare but Serious Risks
Serious risks are rare but can include seizures in very limited cases. This is why proper screening and clinical oversight are essential.
Importance of Medical Screening
A thorough evaluation helps ensure that TMS is safe and appropriate. Screening also improves treatment outcomes by identifying the right candidates.
Does TMS Therapy Work?
Questions about effectiveness are common when considering any new form of mental health care. TMS therapy works gradually and focuses on improving how specific brain areas function over time. At Prosperous Health, our team helps you understand what progress can realistically look like and whether TMS aligns with your goals, history, and current symptoms.
What “Effectiveness” Means in Practice
Effectiveness can mean fewer symptoms, improved mood, better focus, or increased motivation. Some people experience full remission, while others see meaningful symptom reduction.
When Results Typically Appear
Many people begin noticing changes after several weeks of consistent treatment. Full results may take longer and continue improving after the treatment course ends.
Why Responses Can Vary
Response varies based on diagnosis, symptom severity, treatment history, and individual brain chemistry.
Pros and Cons of TMS Therapy
Like any approach to treatment, there are pros and cons. Not all treatments are a good fit for every person or every behavioral health condition. Speak to your care team to see if you are a good fit for TMS therapy.
Potential Benefits
- TMS is noninvasive
- It does not cause weight gain or sedation
- It does not require daily medication
- It can help when other treatments have failed
Potential Limitations
- It requires multiple appointments
- Results are not guaranteed
- It may not be appropriate for every diagnosis
When TMS Therapy May Be a Good Next Step
TMS therapy is not the right fit for everyone, but it can be a valuable option for people who have not found enough relief through other treatments. A thoughtful clinical evaluation helps determine whether TMS may be an appropriate next step based on your symptoms, history, and goals.
Who May Benefit Most
- People with depression that has not responded to medication
- Those who cannot tolerate antidepressant side effects
- Individuals seeking a non-medication option
A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether TMS aligns with your symptoms and treatment goals.
When nothing else has worked, taking the next step can change everything.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About TMS
Yes. Prosperous Health offers TMS therapy at our San Diego location as part of comprehensive behavioral health care. Call (888) 308-4057 to learn more or schedule an evaluation.
Candidacy is determined through a clinical assessment that reviews your symptoms, treatment history, and medical background. Contact Prosperous Health to schedule a confidential evaluation and discuss whether TMS may be appropriate.
In most cases, a referral is not required. You can contact Prosperous Health directly to begin the screening process and speak with a member of our care team.
A typical TMS treatment course lasts several weeks, with sessions held on weekdays. During your consultation, our team will review scheduling, expectations, and treatment length in detail.
Insurance coverage for TMS varies by provider and plan. Our admissions team can verify your benefits, explain coverage options, and help you understand any potential out-of-pocket costs.
Reach Out to Prosperous Health for TMS Therapy Today
If you are living in California and exploring options for depression, anxiety, or other behavioral health concerns, support is available. Prosperous Health offers compassionate, evidence-based care in San Diego, including TMS therapy as part of a personalized treatment approach.
Our team takes the time to listen, answer questions, and help you understand your options so you can move forward with confidence. To learn more or schedule a confidential conversation, call (888) 308-4057 or reach out online.
If you are struggling with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or other behavioral health concerns, TMS therapy may be the next step in your healing journey.