HOW MAGVENTURE
TMS WORKS
We deliver Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation through the MagVenture MagPro R30 — one of the most clinically studied magnetic stimulation systems in the world. Focused magnetic pulses stimulate the brain regions involved in mood regulation. FDA-cleared for major depression and OCD, with counseling and medication management available when trauma or anxiety symptoms are part of the picture.
The Science
How magnetic pulses heal the brain
Your brain communicates through electrical signals between neurons. In major depression, certain mood-regulating circuits can become less active or less connected than they should be. This can disrupt motivation, energy, emotional balance, and the ability to feel like yourself.
TMS uses a magnetic coil placed against your scalp to deliver brief, focused magnetic pulses. These pulses pass painlessly through the skull and generate small electrical currents in the targeted brain region. This stimulation "wakes up" underactive neurons and promotes the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
Over the course of treatment, repeated TMS sessions create lasting changes in brain connectivity — a process called neuroplasticity. Your brain essentially rewires itself, restoring healthy patterns of activity that persist long after treatment ends.
Magnetic Pulse Delivery
A magnetic coil generates brief pulses (similar to MRI technology) that pass through the skull to reach specific brain regions.
Neural Activation
The pulses stimulate neurons in underactive brain regions, triggering the release of mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
Neuroplasticity
Repeated stimulation strengthens neural connections and creates lasting changes in brain circuitry.
Follow-Up Tracking
Symptoms are measured through the treatment course so your care team can see whether the plan is working.
Brain Targets
Different conditions, different brain targets
TMS is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. The magnetic coil is positioned over specific brain regions depending on your condition. This precision is what makes TMS so effective — and so different from medication, which affects the entire brain.
Depression
Left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (DLPFC)
Stimulating this region can help reactivate mood-regulating circuits involved in motivation, energy, and emotional balance.
Learn moreOCD
Cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) circuits
MagVenture MagPro R30 TMS protocols for OCD target the circuits involved in intrusive thoughts and compulsive behavior loops, paired with ERP and medication.
Learn moreAnxiety Symptoms
Clinical evaluation first
When anxiety is present, the care plan may include counseling, medication management, and TMS evaluation when depression is also part of the picture.
Learn morePTSD Symptoms
Trauma-informed care plan
PTSD symptoms are supported with trauma-informed care. TMS may be considered when depression or OCD is also clinically indicated.
Learn moreA Typical Session
What happens during a TMS appointment
Check In
You arrive at the clinic and check in. No fasting, no prep, no changing into a gown. Come as you are.
Get Comfortable
You sit in a comfortable reclined chair. The TMS technician positions the magnetic coil against your scalp based on your brain mapping from session one.
Treatment Begins
The device delivers magnetic pulses in short bursts. You'll feel a tapping sensation on your scalp. You're fully awake — you can listen to music, watch a show, or just relax.
Session Complete
The device stops, the coil is removed, and you're done. No recovery time needed. Many patients go straight back to work or school.
Comparison
TMS vs. medication vs. therapy
| TMS | Medication | Talk Therapy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Systemic Side Effects | None | Common (weight, mood, sleep) | None |
| Time to Effect | 2-4 weeks | 4-8 weeks per trial | Months to years |
| Daily Commitment | None (after 6 weeks) | Daily pill indefinitely | Weekly sessions ongoing |
| FDA Cleared | Yes (2008) | Yes | N/A |
| Works With Others | Yes (can combine all 3) | Some interactions | Yes |
| Withdrawal Risk | None | Yes (discontinuation syndrome) | None |
TMS is not a replacement for therapy or medication — it can be used alongside both. Many patients find that TMS makes their therapy more effective and allows them to reduce medication under their doctor's guidance.
FAQ
Common questions about TMS
Does TMS hurt?
Most patients describe TMS as a light tapping or knocking sensation on the scalp. It is not painful for the majority of people. Some patients experience mild scalp discomfort during the first few sessions, which typically resolves as you get used to the sensation. No anesthesia is needed.
Are there side effects from TMS?
TMS has very few side effects compared to medication. The most common is mild scalp discomfort or headache during or after the first few sessions. These typically resolve within the first week. Serious side effects are extremely rare. There is no weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, or drowsiness — common side effects of antidepressants.
Can I drive after a TMS session?
Yes. TMS does not require sedation or anesthesia, and it does not impair your cognitive function. You can drive yourself to and from every appointment and return to work, school, or other activities immediately after each session.
How is TMS different from ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)?
TMS and ECT are very different treatments. ECT requires general anesthesia, induces a seizure, and can cause memory loss. TMS is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, does not induce seizures, and has no cognitive side effects. You remain fully awake and alert during TMS.
How long do TMS results last?
Many patients maintain significant improvement for 12 months or longer after completing a full TMS course. If symptoms begin to return, maintenance sessions (typically once a month or as needed) can sustain the benefits. Some patients find that a single course of TMS provides lasting relief without additional treatment.
See if TMS is right for you
Schedule a free, confidential consultation. We'll evaluate your situation, answer your questions, and determine the best treatment approach.