Facebook-f Instagram X-twitter Youtube Linkedin-in Pinterest
Request an Appointment
Patient Portal
vivabest psychiatry

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Experience safe, non-invasive relief from depression and mood disorders with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy at Vivabest Psychiatry.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that uses brief magnetic pulses to influence the brain’s natural electrical activity. Since its first use in 1985, TMS has become a well-established option for several mental-health and brain-related conditions—especially when medications or therapy haven’t helped enough. Side effects are usually mild and temporary.

The brain is electrically active. Neurons use tiny electrical signals to communicate throughout your brain and body. TMS applies a precisely controlled magnetic field that can gently influence this activity in targeted areas—especially networks involved in emotion, decision-making, and the brain’s reward (pleasure) system.

When pulses are delivered in a series, it’s called repetitive TMS (rTMS). A related approach, deep TMS, uses a different coil design to reach broader and deeper brain targets. (Deep TMS currently has FDA clearance for OCD and smoking cessation.)

FDA-approved uses

  • Major depressive disorder (including treatment-resistant depression)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Migraine
  • Smoking cessation
  • Research is ongoing for additional conditions.

How TMS works

During a session, a treatment coil is placed on your scalp over brain regions involved in mood, motivation, and cognitive control. The coil delivers magnetic pulses that safely pass through the skull and stimulate nearby nerve cells, helping underactive areas “re-engage.”

Who can benefit?

  • TMS is often considered when:
  • You’ve tried standard treatments without enough improvement or with bothersome side effects.
  • You prefer a noninvasive option with no anesthesia and no recovery downtime.
  • You want a treatment that can be used alongside medications and psychotherapy.

Preparing for TMS

  • Before starting, your clinician will review your medical and mental-health history and may perform a physical exam. Tell your provider if any of the following apply:
  • Metal or electronic implants/devices. TMS is not recommended with certain implants because the magnet can move or heat metal. Examples include aneurysm clips/coils, pacemakers or defibrillators, implanted neurostimulators (VNS/DBS), medication pumps, cochlear implants, magnetic implants, bullet or shrapnel fragments, or metal plates in/near the skull. Some implants are compatible—your provider will check.
  • Seizure history or risk. Epilepsy, prior seizures, or medicines that lower seizure threshold may require special precautions or a different treatment plan.
  • Neurologic/medical conditions. Brain injury, stroke, tumor, severe headaches, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or substance use—please share details.
  • Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant.
  • All medications and supplements you take (prescription, OTC, vitamins, herbals).

What to expect

Your first visit (mapping & dosing)

  • You’ll sit in a comfortable chair and wear ear protection (the device clicks).
  • The clinician positions the coil and delivers test pulses to locate the right spot and measure your motor threshold (the minimum intensity that causes a brief finger/thumb twitch).
  • Your personalized treatment dose and position are recorded for future sessions. This visit takes about 45–60 minutes.

 

Treatment sessions

  • Sessions are done in-clinic, typically 5 days a week for 4–6 weeks, with occasional taper sessions.
  • Depending on the protocol, each session lasts about 20 minutes.
  • You’ll remain awake; you may feel tapping on the scalp during pulse trains with short rest periods between them.

 

After each session

  • You can return to normal activities right away, including driving and work.
  • Mild effects—such as scalp discomfort, facial muscle tingling/twitching, lightheadedness, or a short-lived headache—usually resolve within minutes.

Risks and side effects

  • TMS is generally well tolerated.
  • Common, mild, temporary: scalp discomfort or headache, lightheadedness, brief facial muscle twitching/tingling.
  • Serious but rare: seizure (estimated risk <0.01% per session). Your provider screens for risk factors and monitors you throughout treatment.

Other Service

Book an Appointment

Why choose Vivabest Psychiatry PLLC for TMS?

– Expert care from clinicians experienced in neuromodulation

– Evidence-based protocols tailored to you

– Major insurance accepted

– High success rates with compassionate, outcome-focused follow-up

Take the first step. If you’re considering TMS or wondering whether it’s right for you, we’ll review your history, answer questions, and design a plan that fits your goals.

Benefits of TMS

Accessibility

Receive expert mental health care regardless of your location.

Convenience

Schedule appointments that fit your lifestyle and access care from your preferred space.

Privacy

Enjoy discreet, secure sessions through encrypted technology to protect your confidentiality.

Continuity of Care

Stay connected with your provider for consistent and uninterrupted support.

Access Expert Mental Health Care Anywhere, Anytime

Experience the convenience of telepsychiatry. Connect with licensed professionals for personalized evaluations, therapy, and medication management—all from the comfort of your space.

Book Appointment Now