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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment can benefit several groups of people struggling with mental health conditions. The primary candidates who should consider visiting a treatment center for TMS in Artesia are those who have tried multiple antidepressants without significant improvement or those experiencing treatment-resistant depression. Using TMS to treat mental health disorders has been shown in large, controlled studies to be consistently effective in treating treatment-resistant depression, often working for patients who haven’t responded to traditional medications. It is ideal for those who experience severe side effects from antidepressants that outweigh the benefits. This non-invasive treatment offers an alternative for people who want to avoid the systemic side effects commonly associated with psychiatric medications.
TMS therapy helps treat depression and anxiety through a precise neurobiological mechanism that targets specific brain circuits involved in mood regulation. TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain involved in mood control. It operates completely outside the body and affects central nervous system activity by applying powerful magnetic fields to specific areas of the brain known to be involved in depression.
The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is stimulated by magnetic pulses, with patients wearing a cap fitted with a magnetic coil for treatments that last between three and 30 minutes. The pulses induce small electric currents that reset dysfunctional brain patterns associated with depression. TMS uses electromagnets placed on the head to send out targeted magnetic waves to stimulate and reset brain networks that regulate mood to help overcome anxiety in the military and other populations.
Unlike antidepressants that work systemically throughout the body, TMS directly targets the specific brain regions responsible for mood disorders. This precision allows it to address the root neurological causes of depression and anxiety without the systemic side effects often associated with psychiatric medications.
Magnetic stimulation works cumulatively over a series of treatments, gradually strengthening healthy neural connections while reducing hyperactivity in brain circuits associated with negative mood states. This neuroplasticity-based approach helps create lasting improvements in mood regulation, making it particularly valuable for individuals who haven’t responded to traditional treatments. The treatment essentially retrains the brain’s mood regulation systems, offering hope for those with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety disorders.
Yes, TMS therapy is considered very safe for treating mental health conditions. TMS is a safe, non-invasive, and effective treatment. TMS has been approved by the FDA since 2008 to treat depression, and it is generally exceptionally well tolerated as compared to the side effects often seen with medications. The treatment requires no anesthesia, and patients remain fully awake and alert during sessions. The magnetic fields are precisely targeted to specific brain regions, minimizing unintended effects.
Common Side Effects
The most frequently reported side effects are minor and manageable:
Rare Side Effects
The most serious potential side effect is seizures, but this risk is extremely low:
The referral requirements for TMS treatment vary depending on the specific treatment center and healthcare system, but here’s what you typically need to know:
Referral Requirements Vary by Facility
Some TMS facilities in California require formal referrals, while others allow self-referrals. Referrals must come from a primary clinician who is responsible for a psychiatric treatment plan before, during, and after TMS.
Who Can Make Referrals
When referrals are required, they typically come from:
The doctor attempts to determine the root cause of their problem and typically refers them to a psychiatrist when no physical issues are identified that might be causing the symptoms. The psychiatrist goes over the patient’s medical files and performs a psychiatric evaluation for TMS.
Upon submitting your referral, a patient advisor will contact you to discuss your patient’s requirements and provide detailed information on transcranial magnetic stimulation. Patients will typically need to complete pre-consultation questionnaires regardless of how they arrive at the treatment center.
Since requirements vary significantly between facilities, your best option is to:
Starting TMS therapy typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you’re a good candidate for this treatment. The first step involves contacting a TMS treatment center directly or getting a referral from your current healthcare provider, such as a primary care physician or psychiatrist. During the initial consultation, medical professionals will review your mental health history, previous treatments you’ve tried, and current symptoms to assess whether TMS is appropriate for your specific situation.
Once you’re approved for TMS therapy, the process moves to treatment planning and scheduling. The medical team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan, which typically involves sessions five days a week for four to six weeks.
Throughout the treatment course, your progress will be monitored regularly through standardized depression or anxiety rating scales, and the treatment team will coordinate with your referring physician or existing mental health providers to ensure continuity of care. Many insurance plans cover TMS therapy when it’s deemed medically necessary, and treatment centers often have staff who can help verify your benefits and navigate the insurance approval process.
Moment of Clarity offers TMS treatment at our outpatient treatment centers for mental health in California. Call 949-625-0564 to schedule a consultation today and explore how personalized TMS treatment can work for you.
