How TMS works
- Magnetic Coil: A magnetic coil is placed near the patient's scalp, usually over the prefrontal cortex (the area involved in mood regulation).
- Magnetic Pulses: The coil generates repetitive magnetic pulses, which pass through the skull and reach specific brain regions.
- Brain Stimulation: These pulses stimulate the brain's nerve cells, potentially improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression by modulating neural activity.

Non-Invasive
TMS doesn't require surgery or implantation of any device.
FDA-Approved
It is an FDA-approved treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Session-Based
A typical treatment involves several sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting about 5-20 minutes.
No Anesthesia
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS does not require anesthesia or have major side effects like memory loss.
TMS side effects
- TMS is generally well-tolerated, but side effects may include:
- Headache (generally mild)
- Scalp discomfort at the stimulation site
- Lightheadedness
- Rarely, seizures (though very uncommon)
TMS and mental health conditions
TMS provides an alternative for those seeking non-pharmacological treatment options, offering hope for people struggling with treatment-resistant mental health conditions. See how it works:
To see if you qualify for TMS therapy, schedule a free assessment or call 877-711-1878 to speak with one of our admissions teammates.
TMS outpatient services are offered at these locations
-
Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Denver - Lowry Blvd
8101 E Lowry Blvd #110
Denver, CO 80230 -
Eating Recovery Center Baltimore - 55 Schilling
55 Schilling Rd,
Hunt Valley, MD 21030