CNY TMS Psychiatry

TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation. This form of therapy uses magnetic fields similar to that of an MRI machine, but targets certain parts of the brain to stimulate or inhibit neurons. During a TMS therapy treatment session, a magnetic field is administered in very short pulses to the part of the brain being treated. A typical initial course of treatment is about 19-minutes five days a week for approximately 6-weeks, with the last six treatment sessions titrated over a 3-week period.

CNY TMS Psychiatry also offers shorter treatment protocols where treatment can be completed in just a few days for those who qualify.

Most patients can expect to start experiencing relief after 5-10 TMS treatment sessions. However, this can vary greatly depending on the severity of depression and the individual’s unique genetic makeup. Some patients may not feel the effects of TMS for several weeks, while others may  experience a near immediate relief. 

Painful? No. Uncomfortable? It depends on the individual. In the majority of patients, TMS is well tolerated with only minor discomfort on the scalp where TMS is applied. Most people describe TMS as a light to moderate tapping sensation where the coil is being applied. The sensation of the pulse may feel similar to a TENS unit.

Slight discomfort may be felt because there are several nerves in the scalp where TMS is being applied. Naturally some of these nerves will also be lightly stimulated by the TMS coil as they are also conductive and will pick up the electromagnetic pulse. 

You cannot feel TMS in your brain, as the brain has no pain receptors itself.

And even though stimulation of the scalp nerves may cause some discomfort at first, this too subsides as the patient progresses through treatment, generally after the first few treatment sessions.

Patients are asked to stop the use of Wellbutrin before beginning TMS and to abstain from alcohol during the course of their TMS treatment. 

Prior to your initial treatment, which is your mapping session (when the doctor with locate the area of the brain to be treated), you may be asked to refrain from taking any medications that might prevent a successfull mapping, such as Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Neurontin, or muscle relaxers. 

Yes.  For patients who have failed two or more trials of antidepressants, most major insurers will cover TMS treatment (the numbe of medication trials is determined by your health insurance plan).  Insurance will typcially require a prior authorization, which we obtain for you within approximately 7-10 days following your initial TMS consultation visit. For off-label treatment or other situations in which insurance will not reimburse directly, using a health savings account or Advanced Care Card are common options.  

CNY TMS Psychiatry also offers discounted rates for those paying in full at the beginning of treatment and flexible payment plans in an effort to assist our patients with getting the care they need to improve their quality of life.