TMS delivers small magnetic pulses to a specific area of the brain involved in mood regulation—typically the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex—using a coil placed on the scalp. The treatment is tailored to each individual, with the stimulation level adjusted according to the amount of energy needed to activate their brain’s nerve cells, which can vary from person to person.
Felt on the scalp, TMS is felt like a tapping sensation. Treatment begins on a low setting. If the patient is comfortable, the TMS nurse will gradually increase the stimulation level until a therapeutic level is reached.
This treatment is typically suited for individuals living with treatment-resistant depression, generalised anxiety disorder, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, or chronic pain — particularly those who have trialled multiple medications without benefit or experienced significant side effects. However, individuals with a history of epilepsy may not be suitable candidates