Learn About TMS
Many patients come to us after years of suffering from depression, despite having been treated with medication and psychotherapy. You are not alone!Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals (GBHP) is currently accepting new TMS patients at the Bradley Park, Cumming, Dunwoody Peachtree City, and Stockbridge Therapy Services locations and you may contact us for a consultation at 1-844-TMS-WELL. See below how Barry Jones, MD and the great treaters at the GBHP Cumming office have made a difference and given hope to this family:
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment used to stimulate small regions of the brain. TMS Therapy is an FDA-cleared, proven, and non-sedating treatment for depression. There are no drug-related side effects, and sessions are covered by most insurance plans such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Tricare, Medicare, Optum (United), etc.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS Therapy) is a safe and effective treatment for individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who have not experienced satisfactory improvement from anti-depressant medication. TMS Therapy can be used in conjunction with medication or as a stand-alone treatment.
Although treatment varies by individual, a typical treatment course consists of:
- Average of 30-36 treatment sessions
- Conducted over a 4-6 week period
- 5 treatments per week
- Each treatment session lasts approximately 30-40 minutes
What to Expect
During treatment, patients relax in a reclining chair and remain awake and alert. The TMS Therapy System will deliver magnetic pulses to specific areas of your brain known to regulate mood. These pulses will feel like tapping on the scalp. The technician can make adjustments if the tapping is uncomfortable. A mild headache or scalp discomfort is sometimes experienced at the site of stimulation.
After a treatment session, patients can immediately return to their normal routine, including driving. In clinical trials, most patients experienced a positive response to TMS Therapy by the fourth week of treatment. Some patients may experience results in less time, while others may take longer. It is important to continually discuss any depression symptoms with your TMS Technician. You will also discuss activities that you can do to further enhance your response to TMS.
Your First Treatment Session
Because it is important to determine how to most effectively administer your individual treatment, your first session may last up to an hour. You will be provided with earplugs to reduce the audible tapping sound that the device emits. You can bring your own earbuds (providing they are not metal) and listen to music during your treatment, talk with your technician or watch television. You are encouraged to bring a family member or friend.
The Doctor will first identify the amount of magnetic field strength needed to produce a movement of your right thumb. This determines the magnetic field strength that will be used in your treatment, which is individualized to deliver the correct treatment dose for you.
The Doctor will then determine the location on your head where the treatment coil will be placed. In 10-15 second intervals, the device will deliver rapid “pulses” of the magnetic energy. These will feel like tapping on the scalp. The technician can make adjustments if indicated and will be there throughout the treatment to assist you with any questions.
How it Works
TMS Therapy works by delivering magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation – areas known to be underactive in those diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. The magnetic pulses stimulate brain cells and reestablish brain circuits, thereby improving the brain’s ability to regulate mood. During a TMS procedure, a magnetic field generator, or “coil”, is lightly touching the head of the person receiving the treatment. The coil produces small magnetic pulses that go through the skin and skull into the region of the brain just under the coil.
Benefits of TMS
FDA clinical trials showed that 58% patients reported a reduction in depression symptoms at the completion of the acute phase of TMS Therapy. Georgia Behavioral Health Professionals has seen that 3 out of every 4 patients or about 75% of 175 patients treated reported a reduction in depression symptoms at the completion of the acute phase of TMS Therapy.
Non-Systemic – nothing enters the bloodstream
Non-Sedating – patient remains awake and alert during treatment and can resume usual routine and can even drive themselves home
Non-Invasive – nothing is inserted or implanted into the body
Non-Drug – no drug-related side effects such as weight gain, drowsiness, sleeplessness, stomach upset or sexual problems
FDA Cleared & Proven – 58% of patients had a reduction in depression scores after a 4-week treatment period. In the 175 patients we have treated in the last 3 years, we have seen better rates at approximately 3 out of 4 patients
Covered by Most Insurance Plans – we assist patients with the approval from insurance, reimbursement and financing process
There is HOPE for your depression. Contact us for a consultation at 1-844-TMS-WELL.
