How Much TMS Do I Need to Undergo Before Seeing Results?

7/30/2024

At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we feel it's essential to grasp the treatment process, including the required number of sessions, for those considering TMS therapy. The treatment duration typically ranges from 4 – 6 weeks, although the exact number of sessions can vary depending on the individual's response. This innovative approach provides new hope for treating conditions like depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health issues, particularly for those who have not found success with traditional medications and therapies. For more details on TMS therapy, please contact our office in Salt Lake City, UT.

What is TMS therapy?

TMS therapy employs magnetic fields to activate nerve cells in the brain, targeting the regions involved in mood regulation. This established, noninvasive technique uses magnetic pulses to stimulate these areas, potentially revitalizing them and improving conditions related to mental health, such as symptoms of anxiety.

How does TMS therapy differ from other treatments?

TMS therapy offers a distinct advantage over medication by targeting specific brain areas, ensuring precision in treatment with fewer side effects. This focused approach directly addresses symptoms of depression and beyond. Additionally, as an outpatient procedure, TMS allows patients to resume their daily activities almost immediately after each session, minimizing disruption to their routine.

How many sessions are generally recommended?

The duration of TMS therapy varies according to individual requirements, with a common regimen involving daily sessions, five days a week, for approximately 4 – 6 weeks. Many patients start experiencing improvements in their symptoms from the second to the fourth week of treatment. To ensure the full benefits of the therapy are realized, it's crucial to complete the entire prescribed course.

What factors influence the number of sessions needed?

The number of TMS sessions required can vary based on multiple factors, including:

  • Severity of symptoms: Patients with more severe or persistent depression symptoms might need additional sessions
  • Response to treatment: Individuals can respond at different rates to TMS therapy
  • Personal health history: The presence of other medical conditions can impact the effectiveness of the treatment

How long do TMS results last?

The lasting effects of TMS therapy can differ significantly from one individual to another, with many patients enjoying benefits that extend from several months up to more than a year following the initial series of treatments. The duration of these benefits can depend on various factors, such as the severity and chronicity of the treated condition, individual differences in brain chemistry, and lifestyle choices. To maintain these positive results, some patients may participate in periodic maintenance sessions. These follow-up treatments, customized to each patient’s specific needs, play a crucial role in prolonging the therapy's impact and maintaining the improvements in mental health initially gained through TMS.

Long-term relief from mental health symptoms

At Serenity, our commitment is to deliver personalized care tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Understanding the TMS therapy process, including the typical number of sessions required, is a vital part of the journey toward improved mental health. If you're considering TMS for treating depression, anxiety disorder, or any other mental health condition in Salt Lake City, UT, or if you have further questions about the treatment, we encourage you to contact us. Together, we will explore the most effective approach to help you achieve mental wellness. We are eager to collaborate with you on this journey.

Request Appointment

*All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.