Embarking on transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy can be an important treatment option for depression, especially when traditional approaches like prescribed medications haven’t provided sufficient relief. If you're ready to begin your TMS journey at Denver Wellness Associates, this prep guide will walk you through what to expect before starting treatment.
Understanding How TMS Works
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, noninvasive treatment for depression that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. These magnetic pulses help “wake up” underactive brain cells and strengthen the communication between brain regions linked to mood. Over time, this can improve symptoms of depression by supporting healthier brain activity and influencing mood-related chemicals like serotonin and dopamine.
Before You Begin TMS Treatment
· Discussing TMS with Your Provider If you’re interested in learning more about TMS, start by talking with your psychiatric provider. They will help determine whether TMS might be appropriate for your symptoms and treatment goals.
· TMS Consultation If your provider recommends TMS, you’ll be scheduled for a video consultation with our TMS Service Line Manager. This meeting helps confirm whether you are a good candidate for TMS and whether you meet insurance criteria for coverage. During the consultation, our team will review your full medical and psychiatric history to ensure TMS is safe and appropriate for you. Be prepared to share:
- Your diagnoses and current symptoms
- A list of past and current psychiatric medications and treatment responses
- Any history of seizures or neurological conditions
- Your general medical history, including significant health issues or surgeries
- Any metal implants (such as plates, stents, pacemakers, or cochlear devices), as these can interact with magnetic fields and may make TMS unsafe
· Insurance Authorization Many insurance plans cover TMS if a person has tried several antidepressant medications without enough improvement or if they have had side effects from the medication trials. Approval timelines vary by insurance plan and may take up to four weeks.
· Continue Prescribed Medications Keep taking your regular medications unless your provider gives you other instructions. Medication changes are not generally made during TMS treatment, as consistency helps us evaluate how well TMS is working.
How to Make the Most of TMS Treatment
· Attend Your TMS Sessions Consistently Most patients are approved for 36 treatment sessions, typically 5 days a week for about 6 weeks. Each treatment session lasts roughly 15–30 minutes. Staying consistent with your appointments is important for the best results.
· What the Sessions Feel Like You’ll sit comfortably while magnetic coils deliver gentle pulses that create a clicking sound and tapping sensation on your head. Some people experience mild scalp discomfort or muscle twitching in the forehead area, especially during the first few sessions. These sensations usually lessen as you get used to treatment. You’ll remain awake and alert the entire time, and there’s no need for anesthesia or recovery afterward.
· Track Progress & Side Effects Your care team will monitor your mood and any side effects throughout treatment. You’ll meet with your provider intermittently during your TMS course to discuss progress and complete brief mood screeners to track your response over time.
· Lifestyle for Long-Term Benefits TMS works best when treatment sessions are consistent, medications remain stable, and healthy routines support overall brain health. Getting enough sleep, maintaining balanced nutrition, and continuing therapy or stress-management practices can all help reinforce the positive effects of TMS. These habits don’t make TMS stronger on their own, but they can improve mood stability and help you maintain the gains achieved during treatment.
Post Treatment & Beyond
· Immediate Aftercare There’s no downtime after sessions. You can drive yourself, return to work, or go about your day as usual. Most people find it easy to fit treatment into their regular routine.
· Long-Term Results The positive effects of TMS often continue well beyond the treatment period. Many patients experience lasting improvements in mood, energy, and overall functioning. Some individuals choose periodic maintenance or “booster” sessions to help support ongoing wellness.
· Follow-Up Strategy After completing the initial six-week series, a follow-up visit will help evaluate your overall response and plan next steps.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for TMS therapy and dedicating yourself to the structured six-week treatment plan can significantly boost your chances of meaningful recovery from major depressive disorder. By combining TMS sessions, consistent routines, staying hydrated, maintaining physical activity, and coordinating with your provider, you're setting yourself up for success.
If you have concerns about side effects or how TMS fits with your prescribed medications, Denver Wellness Associates is ready to guide you every step of the way. Let’s make these six weeks count toward a brighter, more stable mood.