Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy

TMS Therapy at the Delray Center

TMS is a non-invasive medical procedure that uses electromagnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the cortex. The Delray Center exclusively uses Brainsway Deep TMS technology, which is the most advanced equipment available. Program clients receive an intensive TWICE daily TMS “Double Protocol”. The DCH Program Double Protocol is when 2 different coils are used to target 2 different areas of the brain. A common example is the administration of a Depression Protocol over the Left Lateral Prefrontal Cortex using the Brainsway H1 coil, followed by a Depression Protocol over the Left Medial Prefrontal Cortex using the Brainsway H7 coil.

Another common example is the administration of a Depression Protocol over the Left Lateral Prefrontal Cortex using the Brainsway H1 coil, followed by an Anxiety Protocol over the Right Medial Prefrontal Cortex using the Brainsway H7 coil. The Double Protocol is administered first thing in the morning and then again at the end of the program day. The twice-daily Double Protocol is only available at the PHP level of care. Protocols can target Major Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Addiction, Memory, and Stroke Recovery. TMS is administered only when clinically indicated and appropriate.

What is TMS and How Does it Work?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive, FDA-approved procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells
in the brain. It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), especially when other treatments have failed. TMS targets the left prefrontal cortex, an area associated with mood regulation. Sessions are typically administered five days a week for seven weeks, with each session lasting about 10 to 12 minutes. Unlike medications that affect the entire body, TMS works directly on the brain’s neural circuits. This targeted approach reduces the risk of systemic side effects and allows for a more precise intervention.

The Immediate and Long-Term Benefits

One of the most notable advantages of using TMS is the rapid onset of symptom relief. Many patients report improvements within the first two weeks of treatment. But beyond the immediate effects, TMS offers a range of long-term benefits that make it a compelling choice for those dealing with chronic depression.

• Sustained Symptom Relief: Several clinical studies have shown that the positive effects of TMS can last for months or even years after the treatment course is completed. Some patients experience continued improvement in their mood and cognitive function well beyond the initial treatment phase. This long-lasting impact sets TMS apart from other treatments that may require daily medication or frequent therapy sessions.
• Fewer Side Effects Than Medications:  Traditional antidepressants often come with a laundry list of side effects, including weight gain, sexual dysfunction, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues. TMS, by contrast, has minimal side effects, the most common being mild scalp discomfort or (rarely) mild headache during treatment. This makes it a much more tolerable and sustainable option for long-term use.
• Improved Cognitive Function: Another long-term advantage of using TMS is its positive effect on cognitive health. Depression can impair memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. TMS not only alleviates depressive symptoms but may also enhance cognitive function. Some patients report improved clarity, focus, and mental sharpness, benefits that contribute to a higher quality of life.
• Reduced Reliance on Medication: For individuals who have been on antidepressants for years with limited success, TMS offers a welcome alternative. Many patients can reduce or eliminate their medication use after completing a TMS treatment plan. This not only minimizes the risk of long-term pharmaceutical side effects but also reduces the burden of managing multiple prescriptions.

Advantages of Using TMS in Treatment-Resistant Cases

Depression that doesn’t respond to traditional treatments is often classified as treatment-resistant depression (TRD). For individuals with TRD, finding an effective treatment can be life-changing. TMS has shown high efficacy in these cases, offering symptom relief when other options have failed.

Studies have indicated that approximately 50-60% of people with treatment-resistant depression experience a meaningful reduction in symptoms after TMS, with around one-third achieving full remission. These outcomes highlight the transformative potential of this innovative therapy. Internal studies at DCH, using DCH TMS protocols, have yielded a substantially higher 85-90% response rate. Clients who complete the PHP Program have the highest response rates.

Supporting a Holistic Approach to Mental Health

TMS doesn’t have to be a standalone treatment. One of the great advantages of using TMS is how well it integrates with other therapeutic approaches. Whether paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, or ongoing psychiatric care, TMS can enhance the overall effectiveness of a holistic mental health strategy. By incorporating TMS into a broader treatment plan, patients often find they can make deeper progress in therapy, adopt healthier habits, and maintain their mental wellness over time.

If you have been struggling with a mood disorder like depression or OCD, and medications are not working, you may be a candidate for transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy. Treatment begins by scheduling an assessment with a psychiatrist to determine if TMS therapy is right for you. The Delray Center for Brain Science, our TMS and neurofeedback clinic and part of the Delray Center family of mental health centers, offers treatment throughout the week to fit your everyday lives. Contact us today to schedule an assessment.