Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers hope for individuals who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. At WHOA Wellness, we provide TMS therapy using advanced Brainsway Deep TMS technology—an FDA-cleared treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
TMS is not a last resort. It’s a smart, evidence-based choice for anyone seeking an effective alternative to medication or looking to enhance their current treatment plan.
TMS uses magnetic fields—similar to those in an MRI—to stimulate nerve cells in specific brain regions linked to depression and mood disorders. When these areas of the brain are underactive, depression symptoms can persist despite medication or therapy. TMS helps “wake up” these regions, restoring healthy neural activity and alleviating symptoms.
During treatment, a cushioned helmet containing an electromagnetic coil is placed comfortably over your head. The device delivers brief magnetic pulses that pass painlessly through your scalp and skull, reaching the targeted brain structures beneath. You’ll remain fully awake and alert throughout the session—no anesthesia, no sedation, no downtime.
The magnetic pulses create small electrical currents in the neurons, encouraging them to fire more regularly and communicate more effectively. Over the course of multiple sessions, this repeated stimulation helps reset neural pathways, leading to lasting improvements in mood and function
Your first TMS session includes a process called motor threshold mapping, which helps us determine the optimal stimulation level for your brain. A technician will position the magnetic coil over your head and deliver single pulses while observing your hand for small, involuntary movements. This is completely painless and helps us personalize your treatment to your unique physiology.
Once your treatment parameters are established, your regular sessions begin.
You’ll sit comfortably in a reclining chair with the TMS helmet positioned on your head. Most patients describe the sensation as a rhythmic tapping or pulsing on the scalp—similar to light, rapid drumming. It’s not painful, though some people find it takes a session or two to get used to the feeling.
Each session lasts approximately 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your specific protocol. During this time, you can:
You’ll remain fully awake and aware throughout the treatment. There’s no grogginess, no confusion—just the gentle tapping sensation and the hum of the device.
A full course of TMS therapy typically includes 30 to 36 sessions over 6 to 8 weeks, scheduled five days per week. Consistency is key to achieving the best results, as each session builds on the last to create lasting changes in brain activity.
Some patients begin to notice improvements within the first few weeks, while others see more gradual changes as treatment progresses. Your provider will monitor your progress throughout and can adjust your treatment plan as needed.
TMS therapy is FDA-cleared for adults with major depressive disorder who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medications. It’s also cleared for reducing anxiety symptoms in patients with depression.
You may be a candidate for TMS if:
TMS is not right for everyone. Candidates must not have certain metal implants near the head (such as cochlear implants or deep brain stimulators) or a history of seizures. During your consultation, we’ll review your medical history thoroughly to ensure TMS is safe and appropriate for you.
TMS has an excellent safety profile. Unlike many antidepressant medications, TMS does not cause systemic side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or digestive problems. Because the magnetic field is focused on specific brain regions, it doesn’t affect your memory, personality, or cognitive function.
Common Side Effects (Usually Mild and Temporary):
Most patients find that any initial discomfort diminishes significantly after the first week as the scalp becomes accustomed to the stimulation. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage any temporary discomfort.
Serious Side Effects (Extremely Rare):
The most serious potential side effect of TMS is seizure, which occurs in less than 0.01% of sessions—making it extraordinarily rare. Your provider will screen you carefully to minimize this already minimal risk.
TMS is considered as safe as having an MRI and involves no radiation exposure.
Coverage typically requires a diagnosis of major depressive disorder and documentation of prior antidepressant trials that were either ineffective or poorly tolerated. Most insurers require at least one or two failed medication trials before approving TMS.
During your consultation at WHOA Wellness, we’ll verify your insurance coverage, explain any out-of-pocket costs, and handle the prior authorization process on your behalf. Our goal is to remove financial barriers and make this potentially life-changing treatment accessible to everyone who needs it.
If you’ve been struggling with depression that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments, TMS therapy may offer the relief you’ve been seeking. The first step is a consultation with our team to discuss your symptoms, treatment history, and goals.
During your consultation, we’ll:
You don’t have to keep living with treatment-resistant depression. TMS therapy has helped thousands of people reclaim their lives, and it may be able to help you, too.