Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS therapy may be effective if you have not been responding to oral antidepressants.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS is an FDA approved non-invasive treatment option for patients living with depression.

During TMS treatment we will use a magnetic coil to stimulate underactive areas of your brain involved with mood management.

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General TMS Info

Is TMS right for you?

TMS Therapy

Does not affect cognitive function

No anesthesia

Covered by most insurance

Outpatient procedure

FDA cleared*

It is important TMS is not confused with ECT. They are very different modalities. TMS does not affect cognitive functions such as IQ or memory.

*Indications for use

TMS therapy is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication in the current episode.

“I was referred to Evolve Health for a TMS treatment plan…I found the staff to be very polite, professional, and very caring…The treatments really made a positive change in my care.”

-LE, TMS Therapy patient

TMS FAQs

What is TMS?

TMS is a non-invasive treatment where magnetic pulses are delivered to stimulate nerve cells in the part of the brain controlling the mood, which is often underactive in patients with depression. Repeated stimulation of this part of the brain has proven to produce an antidepressant effect on people suffering from depression. TMS is also known as rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) because more than one magnetic pulse is delivered to the brain during a treatment session.

Am I a candidate for TMS?

TMS is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication in the current episode. Evolve Health TMS therapy is available by referral only. You must get a referral from your doctor or mental health provider to receive TMS therapy. There are guidelines for approval and doctor recommendations, but we can work with you to get through the paperwork. To see if you are a candidate for TMS therapy with Evolve Health, take this brief survey.

How long does a TMS therapy session take?

Evolve Health TMS therapy is an offered treatment that utilizes the depression protocol of 19 minute sessions. These sessions are once a day, five days a week for six weeks (30 sessions). Then the treatment will taper down to six sessions over two to three weeks.

What does TMS feel like?

You sit in a chair in a relaxed position. When the magnetic pulses are delivered you hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head. Many patients can watch television or read during treatment. Music is enjoyed, too.

Are there any side effects to TMS therapy?

TMS treatment is without the side effects typically experienced with antidepressants, such as weight gain and sexual dysfunction. TMS may, for some, cause headache or nausea, but you should be able to resume your daily activities right after treatment. However, please note that TMS therapy is a medical procedure and any side effects experienced during or after receiving the therapy should be reported to your doctor.

Is TMS covered by insurance?

Yes, TMS is covered by most insurance providers. Their policies may, however, vary. Pre-authorization, medical history, and treatment requirements, to name a few, can impact claim approvals. Always refer to your insurer’s policy guides. We can work with your insurance company and help you navigate this each step of the way.

Where can I get treatment?

We currently offer TMS therapy in 2 of our Evolve Health clinics – Beaverton and Portland.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)