What to Know About Your First TMS Therapy Session

Starting transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy can be a significant step, especially if you're looking for relief from depression, anxiety, or OCD. TMS therapy is a noninvasive treatment designed to help individuals who haven't had success with other treatments. At Serenity Mental Health Centers in Denver, CO, we are committed to making your TMS experience comfortable, informative, and effective. Here's what you can expect during your first session and answers to common questions. For more information about TMS therapy for anxiety, depression, OCD, and more, contact our Denver office to schedule a consultation.

What is TMS therapy?

TMS therapy is a tried-and-true treatment that employs focused magnetic pulses to activate specific brain areas involved in mood regulation. It's typically recommended for individuals who haven't found relief through traditional methods like medication or therapy. TMS therapy for depression, as well as anxiety, OCD, and more, works by stimulating brain regions that influence these conditions. This targeted treatment helps reduce symptoms and empowers patients to regain control of their mental health, offering new opportunities for long-term well-being.

How is TMS therapy done?

Your first session will start with a consultation to discuss your mental health history and address any questions you may have. On the day of your TMS therapy treatment, you'll relax in a comfortable chair as one of our board-certified psychiatrists positions a magnetic coil on your head. This coil sends brief pulses to targeted areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. You may experience a tapping sensation on your scalp, which is typically painless and to which most patients adjust easily. TMS therapy sessions typically last between 20 – 40 minutes, depending on your individualized treatment plan.

What are the benefits of TMS therapy?

TMS therapy provides a variety of benefits, including:

• Noninvasive treatment
• Minimal side effects compared to traditional methods
• Enhanced mood and mental clarity
• A viable alternative for those who don't respond to medication
• Convenient and time-efficient sessions designed to fit your schedule

Does TMS therapy have any side effects?

TMS therapy is well-known for its minimal side effects, especially when compared to traditional treatments like medication. Most patients tolerate TMS therapy without issues, with only a few experiencing mild discomfort during or after the session. Common side effects may include a light tapping sensation on the scalp where the magnetic coil is placed or a mild headache, which typically disappears shortly after the session. Some patients also report temporary scalp sensitivity or tingling, but these effects usually fade as the body adjusts. Serious side effects are extremely rare, making TMS a safe and noninvasive alternative for those seeking options other than medication or more invasive treatments. Our team closely monitors your comfort throughout your sessions, ensuring a pleasant and effective experience.

How long does TMS therapy last?

TMS therapy generally requires multiple sessions over a few weeks, with each session gradually building toward lasting results. While immediate changes in mood or symptoms may not be noticeable after the first session, most patients begin to see improvements after 2 – 4 weeks of consistent treatment. This steady progress gives the brain time to adapt, leading to sustainable symptom relief over time.

What happens after your first TMS therapy session?

After your first session, you can go about your day as normal. Most patients have multiple sessions each week to achieve optimal results. Throughout your TMS therapy, we'll closely monitor your progress, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure you're receiving the best possible care for effective outcomes.

Start TMS therapy

If you're ready to explore a new, innovative approach to mental wellness with TMS therapy, our team at Serenity is here to help. Contact our Denver, CO office today to learn more about TMS therapy for OCD, depression, anxiety, and other conditions, and take the first step toward a happier, healthier mind.