Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Service

Our approach to transcranial magnetic stimulation

During your consultation, your care team will evaluate whether ketamine infusions, intranasal esketamine, or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is the best option based on your symptoms, diagnosis, and goals.

If ketamine or esketamine is recommended, you will complete a medical evaluation to ensure the treatment is safe before starting.

TMS works by placing an electromagnetic coil on the scalp that delivers magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain associated with depression and OCD.

TMS is noninvasive and requires no anesthesia or sedation. The procedure typically lasts less than an hour. During this time, patients are awake, alert, and comfortable. There are no restrictions on work or other activities before the treatment. The most common side effects are temporary mild scalp discomfort or headache.

A standard outpatient course of TMS is 36 treatments (usually Monday through Friday, excluding holidays) over seven weeks. We offer other treatment protocols, including accelerated treatment regimens, as appropriate. Our involvement in research gives select patients access to ongoing clinical trials.

During a treatment session, you will sit in a comfortable reclining chair. A headset is applied to deliver the magnetic stimulation. Ear plugs are also provided to decrease exposure to the loud clicks associated with each magnetic pulse.

Treatment lasts between 3-20 minutes. You will be monitored continuously to ensure correct coil positioning and comfort level.

Consultations are typically covered by insurance, but coverage for IV ketamine and intranasal esketamine varies by plan. Check with your insurance provider for details about your benefits.

If you are paying out of pocket and seeking reimbursement, we can provide documentation to support your claim. We accept Medicare, Massachusetts Medicaid, and many private insurance plans.

For more information, review our billing and financial assistance resources.