6 questions to ask when choosing a TMS provider

Keerthan Somanath

Psychiatrist, MD

If you’re looking for a cutting-edge treatment for depression, anxious depression or OCD and have not felt relief from traditional oral medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy may be appropriate for you. This FDA-approved and noninvasive treatment stimulates specific regions of the brain with magnetic pulses. This stimulation affects the activity of neurons, potentially improving mood and well-being.

Approximately 38-55% of people with depression who didn’t improve with medications responded to deep TMS. About two-thirds achieved full remission of symptoms, which highlights how promising this treatment can be. If you’re interested in TMS therapy, the first step is to schedule a consultation to see if you’re a good candidate. During this consultation, it’s important to ask questions to make sure you’re choosing a qualified provider who can provide a safe, effective treatment. 

Keep reading to learn six important questions to ask when selecting a provider for TMS therapy, so you can maximize your results.

6 questions to ask when choosing a TMS provider

Before starting TMS therapy, it’s important to find a provider who is experienced and able to meet your needs. Asking the right questions during your consultation can give you the confidence to make a well-informed decision and ensure that you receive safe, effective and personalized care. 

Asking these questions can help you achieve your desired outcome from TMS therapy:

1. What is your experience with TMS therapy?

Choosing an experienced TMS provider can help you get the best results. An experienced provider has worked with many types of patients and knows how to customize this treatment to meet your needs. With this knowledge, they can adjust treatment as needed to maximize results and minimize side effects. You’re more likely to have a successful outcome when you choose a provider with a proven track record of helping patients like you.

2. What treatment protocols do you follow?

TMS therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment option. There are different FDA-approved protocols that vary in intensity and duration. For instance, standard rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) requires daily sessions for six weeks, while accelerated TMS provides more intense stimulation over a shorter period of time. 

Other protocols fall in between these options when it comes to intensity and length of treatment. Knowing these details can help you find out what experience you may have and how it fits into your lifestyle. 

3. Are you able to customize TMS sessions for my needs?

Not everyone who receives TMS therapy goes to treat the same condition. Patients who turn to this option are experiencing treatment-resistant depression, anxious depression or OCD, and the severity of each condition is different. 

For the best results, treatment needs to be tailored to each patient. An experienced provider knows how to adjust the intensity, frequency and coil placement to optimize your results. Tailoring TMS to your comfort level and needs can help ensure that you have a safe and effective treatment. 

4. How much does treatment cost?

Before starting TMS therapy, it’s important to get a clear understanding of what the cost will be. The number of sessions, insurance coverage and provider’s location all affect how much your treatment will cost. While every patient’s needs and response to treatment can vary, 36 sessions over six to eight weeks is the standard course of treatment for optimal results. 

Most insurance providers cover the cost of TMS for certain conditions like major depressive disorder, and you will need preauthorization before you begin. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be responsible for your deductible and copay until you reach your out-of-pocket maximum. To find out what your cost of treatment will be, talk to your provider about your insurance coverage for TMS therapy, out-of-pocket costs and financing options.

5. How do you monitor progress and adjust treatment?

Asking this question can give you insight into how your TMS provider can ensure that you get the best possible results. An experienced provider knows how often to check in to assess how you’re responding to treatment. Then, they can analyze your symptom changes and make adjustments to your TMS therapy, if needed. 

These adjustments may include changing the frequency or intensity of treatments. At Psychiatry Treatment Centers , we track your progress regularly to ensure that you remain comfortable throughout the course of your treatment and that TMS therapy is personalized to your needs, helping you achieve the best outcome. 

6. What kind of results can I expect, and how long do they last?

Every patient responds to TMS therapy differently. Knowing what to expect can help you set realistic goals as you undergo treatment. You can ask your provider what improvements you might see, how long results last and if maintenance treatments might be needed for optimal results. These questions paint the full picture of your potential outcome from treatment, helping you make an informed decision.

Get expert TMS treatments at Psychiatry Treatment Centers

Choosing a qualified TMS provider can be the first step toward improving your health. Whether you want to ease symptoms of depression, anxious depression or OCD, a good provider can customize TMS to meet your needs. Asking these important questions can help you feel more confident as you explore this option. They can help you find a provider who can give you a safe and effective treatment. 

At Psychiatry Treatment Centers, our compassionate and experienced team specializes in TMS therapy and other innovative mental health treatments. We take the time to listen to your needs, recommend the best course of treatment, and tailor your sessions as needed to maximize your comfort and results. 

Reach out to our team by phone today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment. You can also book your initial appointment online now.

Keerthan Somanath

Keerthan Somanath

Psychiatrist, MD

https://ptcmed.com/about/

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