NeuroStar uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to target key areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression. It is not ECT (electroconvulsive therapy).
While the exact cause of depression is not known, the leading scientific theory is that it is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that send signals between brain cells.
What is NeuroStar Advanced Therapy (TMS)?
During a NeuroStar treatment session, a magnet similar in strength to that used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine is used to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain thought to control mood. These magnetic pulses may have a positive effect on the brain’s neurotransmitter levels,
making long-term remission possible.
Treatment with NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is easy:
- Therapy sessions are conducted in your NeuroStar doctor’s office
- You can return to normal activities right away
- You are awake during treatment
- There are no negative effects on memory or sleep
- It’s covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare
With more than three million treatments delivered, this novel treatment approach to achieving remission is bringing new hope to people every day.
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How NeuroStar TMS Therapy Works
Here’s what you can expect from a NeuroStar Advanced Therapy (TMS) session:
Before Treatment
You’ll recline comfortably in the treatment chair. A small, curved magnetic coil will be positioned lightly on your head.
During Treatment
NeuroStar delivers focused magnetic stimulation directly to the target areas of the brain. You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head.
After Treatment
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy: Depending on your doctor’s recommendation, each treatment takes between 19 and 37 minutes.
You can resume normal activities immediately.
Because there are no effects on alertness or memory, you can drive yourself to and from treatment sessions.
In-office treatment with NeuroStar TMS Therapy typically takes 19-37 minutes and is administered 5 days a week for approximately 4-6 weeks.*
book onlineIs TMS therapy right for you?
Non-drug and FDA-cleared
Non-invasive with no drug-related side effects.
Fits into your existing treatment
Can be stand-alone treatment or along with your existing medication.
Covered by most insurance
We handle the paperwork.
Zero downtime
Drive yourself to and from treatments. Get back to your day right away, including work or school.
How is TMS different from other therapies?
TMS is different from medications and talk therapy. Medications aren’t as customizable — they may not work for genetic reasons and could cause moderate to severe side effects.
Symptoms of depression can also interfere with the comfort and effectiveness of talk therapy.
TMS targets the area of the brain that is believed to regulate mood to treat depression at its neurological source.
Does TMS hurt?
During the session, you will feel a tapping sensation on your head. Each treatment session lasts around 19 minutes. Some NeuroStar patients experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort at or near the treatment site during the first week of treatment.
Is Neurostar TMS therapy safe?
Clinical trials have proven the safety of NeuroStar TMS Therapy® in treating patients who’ve had an inadequate response to prior antidepressant medications.
What is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, TMS Therapy, uses short pulses of magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in one of the areas of the brain thought to control mood.
Is TMS therapy an effective treatment for depression?
Have you sought treatment for your depression only to find unsatisfactory results? NeuroStar TMS Therapy has been clinically proven to improve symptoms of depression.