Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Depression
By Nicole Roder, LCSW-C, DBT-LBC
Depression can be a debilitating condition, and for many people, traditional treatments like medication and therapy aren’t enough. Fortunately, there’s a newer treatment option that’s showing promising results: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression. We are excited to be offering this innovative treatment at Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness.
What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Dr. Coleen Schrepfer, Chief Medical Officer at Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness, explains:
“TMS is an acronym for transcranial magnetic stimulation, and it is an FDA approved protocol procedure from 2008. It is a device that generates a magnetic field. And that magnetic field, when put in connection with the brain and put on the skull, generates an electrical pulse which then stimulates neurons in a very targeted area.”
The treatment specifically targets the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain involved in mood regulation. During a TMS session, patients sit in a comfortable chair while a technician places a treatment coil against their head. The machine then delivers magnetic pulses to stimulate brain cells.
Is TMS Effective for Treating Depression?
Research has shown TMS to be quite effective for treating depression, especially in cases where other treatments have failed. Dr. Schrepfer shares some impressive statistics:
“Thirty to 48 percent of patients experience full remission of their depression symptoms and on average, relief of depressive symptoms after TMS concludes is anywhere from 6 to 9 months to indefinitely.”
This is particularly significant given that TMS is often used for treatment-resistant depression – cases where patients haven’t responded to at least two different antidepressant medications. The effectiveness, combined with its relatively mild side effect profile, makes TMS an attractive option for many patients struggling with depression.
What is TMS Like at Gladstone?
Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness offers transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. Dr. Schrepfer emphasizes the importance of Gladstone’s approach:
“We realize that patients who are coming to us to get TMS treatment have been through treatment before. This is not their first time coming to get help, and it’s difficult. So we are very aware of that. And the people who we have hired for our TMS, we were very selective in making sure that we had the right people for this role because of the patients who are coming to get TMS.”
The treatment process for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation at Gladstone involves:
- An initial phone screening to determine eligibility
- An evaluation with a TMS-trained psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner
- Insurance authorization (most insurance plans cover TMS for eligible patients)
- A “mapping” session to determine the exact treatment location
- Daily treatments (Monday-Friday) for 5-6 weeks, each lasting about 18 minutes
Gladstone TMS patients can expect a supportive environment and a team dedicated to their care throughout the process.
How Do I Find TMS Near Me?
If you’re interested in TMS treatment, the first step is to reach out to a provider offering the service. For those in the Baltimore area, Gladstone Psychiatry and Wellness is currently offering TMS at our Sulgrave office, with plans to expand to other locations.
To get started with TMS at Gladstone, you can:
- Call Gladstone at 443-708-5856 Ext: 602 (office), 443-203-8910 (Google Voice)
- Email TMS@gladstonepsych.com to request information
Dr. Schrepfer notes that there’s currently no waiting list: “We are taking patients within Gladstone and outside referrals as well, and once you send in a request you’ll be called back within a short period of time from our technician, and we’ll get things rolling.”
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation offers new hope for individuals struggling with depression, especially those who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. With its high effectiveness rate and minimal side effects, TMS is becoming an increasingly popular option in the mental health field.
If you’re considering TMS, it’s important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine if it’s the right treatment for you. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks, and guide you through the treatment process.
Remember, depression is a treatable condition, and with advancements like TMS, there are more options than ever to help you find relief and improve your quality of life.