Noninvasive · No anesthesia

WHAT IS TMS THERAPY?
HOW IT WORKS

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation uses a coil placed near the scalp to deliver brief magnetic fields to a clinician-selected brain target. RSLNT uses the MagVenture MagPro R30. The MagPro R30 is FDA-cleared for adult major depressive disorder (MDD).

Device clearance does not mean every protocol fits every person. Your clinician must confirm the indication, safety, and protocol; availability at RSLNT must be confirmed during your consultation.

Official MagVenture room setup with MagPro R30 and Treatment Chair with Neckrest — RSLNT Wellness

The Science

How magnetic stimulation works

The FDA classifies transcranial magnetic stimulation systems as devices that use magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in targeted cortical areas. Treatment is noninvasive: the coil stays outside the body and no anesthesia is used.

During treatment, the coil delivers repeated pulses according to a prescribed device setting and target. You may hear clicks and feel tapping on the scalp. The exact location, intensity, and schedule depend on the diagnosis, protocol, and your clinician's assessment.

Repeated sessions may support changes in targeted circuits. Your clinician measures symptoms through the course so the plan can adjust. No guaranteed lasting relief.

Magnetic Pulse Delivery

A coil outside the head produces brief magnetic fields that induce electrical currents in a targeted cortical area.

Clinician-Selected Target

The diagnosis, FDA-cleared indication, mapping, safety screen, and prescribed protocol guide coil placement and settings.

Neuroplasticity

Repeated sessions may support changes in targeted circuits. Your clinician measures symptoms through the course so the plan can adjust. No guaranteed lasting relief.

Follow-Up Tracking

Symptoms are measured through the treatment course so your care team can see whether the plan is working.

A Typical Session

What happens during a TMS appointment

MagVenture says treatment time can range from 3 to 60 minutes depending on the protocol. Mapping and clinical check-in can add time, especially at the first visit. RSLNT confirms the prescribed schedule before treatment starts.

Before

Safety Review

The team reviews current medications, seizure risk, implanted metal or electronic devices, and other safety factors. Follow the preparation instructions provided for your visit.

First visit

Mapping And Positioning

You sit in the treatment chair while the clinical team identifies the prescribed target and records the positioning and treatment settings.

During

Magnetic Stimulation

The coil delivers pulses in short sequences. You remain awake and may hear clicking and feel tapping on the scalp. Tell the team about discomfort or any change in how you feel.

After

Check Out

There is usually no anesthesia recovery period. The team documents the visit and gives any individual instructions before you return to normal activities.

Treatment Planning

How TMS can fit with medication and therapy

These options do different jobs and are not interchangeable. A clinician may recommend one approach or a coordinated plan based on diagnosis, treatment history, preferences, safety, and response.

TMS

A course of device-based treatment delivered in scheduled clinic visits. Response and side effects are monitored throughout the course.

Medication

Prescription options can be used alone or alongside other care. Starting, changing, or stopping medication belongs with the prescribing clinician.

Talk Therapy

Therapy builds skills and addresses patterns, experiences, and goals. The approach and visit frequency depend on the patient and treatment plan.

Do not stop or change medication based on this page. Your treating clinician can explain how TMS, medication management, and counseling fit together for your situation.

Protocol update

Standard and accelerated TMS schedules in Provo

MagVenture lists standard and accelerated FDA-cleared protocols for major depressive disorder within its system family. A shorter schedule can involve multiple sessions in one day and is not interchangeable with a standard course. Eligibility, the exact protocol, insurance requirements, and availability at RSLNT must all be confirmed before scheduling.

Clinical Sources

Check the device facts directly

We use current manufacturer and FDA information for device clearance, timing, and treatment basics. These sources explain the device; your clinician determines whether treatment is appropriate for you.

FAQ

Common questions about TMS

What is TMS therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that uses brief magnetic fields to induce electrical currents in targeted areas of the brain. It is delivered while you are awake and does not require anesthesia.

How long does a TMS session take?

MagVenture says treatment time can range from 3 to 60 minutes depending on the protocol. Your diagnosis, prescribed protocol, mapping, and visit type determine the exact time. RSLNT confirms your schedule before treatment starts.

How long is a TMS treatment course?

MagVenture describes a typical standard course as approximately six weeks. Some cleared accelerated protocols use a shorter, more intensive schedule. Clinical eligibility and availability at RSLNT must be confirmed during your consultation.

What should I expect during a TMS session?

You sit in a treatment chair while a trained team member positions the coil according to your prescribed target. You remain awake and may feel tapping on the scalp. After the session, there is usually no anesthesia recovery period; follow any individual instructions from your clinician.

Does TMS hurt?

People commonly describe tapping or knocking on the scalp. Scalp discomfort or headache can occur, especially early in a course. Tell the treatment team about discomfort so they can assess it and adjust positioning when appropriate.

Are there side effects from TMS?

Commonly reported effects include scalp discomfort and headache. TMS also has uncommon but serious risks, including seizure. Screening for implanted metal or electronic devices, seizure risk, medications, and other safety factors is part of the clinical evaluation.

Can I drive after a TMS session?

TMS typically does not use sedation or anesthesia, and MagVenture notes that people can generally return to normal activities after treatment. Follow your clinician’s instructions and do not drive if you feel unwell.

How is TMS different from ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)?

TMS is non-invasive and requires no anesthesia. You remain fully awake. Seizure is uncommon. ECT is a different treatment that uses anesthesia and intentionally induces a seizure.

How long do TMS results last?

How long results last varies. Your clinician tracks symptoms after the course and discusses maintenance only if it fits your plan. No lasting-relief timeline promise.

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.