Does TMS Therapy Work? How Long It Takes and Its Side Effects
- Sophroneo Psychiatry
- Sep 16
- 5 min read
Does TMS Therapy Work? At Sophroneo Behavioral Health, this is one of the most important questions we hear from patients who are exhausted from the cycle of treatment-resistant depression. It’s a question about more than just the device, it’s about time, cost, hope, and the possibility of finally feeling better.
The answer is that for many people, yes, NeuroStar® TMS works. In this guide, our clinical team provides a candid, evidence-based look at the outcomes, safety, costs, and real-world experience of TMS therapy to help you make an informed decision.
What NeuroStar TMS Is
Before weighing the pros and cons, it's important to understand what TMS is and what it isn't.
What it does: It uses targeted magnetic pulses (similar to an MRI) to stimulate specific brain regions involved in mood regulation.
What it isn't: This is not ECT ("shock therapy") and it is not surgery. During treatment, you are fully awake, there is no anesthesia, and you can drive yourself home immediately afterward.
How it feels: Most patients describe a tapping sensation on the scalp. Sessions typically occur on weekdays for several weeks.
Why people choose it: When medications and therapy haven’t provided enough relief or their side effects have become unbearable TMS offers an FDA-approved, non-drug option with a strong safety profile.
Does It TMS Work? A Look at the Clinical Outcomes
While no treatment for depression works for everyone, the clinical evidence for TMS is strong and compelling.
Controlled TMS Trials: In major clinical studies, TMS has been shown to consistently outperform sham (placebo-like) stimulation for major depressive disorder in appropriately selected patients.
Real-World TMS Data: Large treatment registries, tracking thousands of patients, show that many individuals experience a meaningful reduction in their depressive symptoms, with a significant number achieving full remission (the absence of symptoms).
Ultimately, this data shows a clear pattern: while not a guaranteed cure, there is credible, large-scale evidence that TMS helps many people find relief when other treatments have failed.
Who is a Good Candidate for TMS?
While the evidence is promising, it's crucial to understand that TMS is most effective for a specific group of patients. A thorough screening is essential.
TMS is often a strong fit for individuals who:
Have a confirmed diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
Have already tried multiple standard antidepressant medications and structured psychotherapy without success.
Are able to commit to the near-daily session schedule for several weeks.
Prefer a non-drug treatment or an add-on therapy to their current medication.
Want a treatment with a low risk of systemic side effects (like weight gain or sexual dysfunction).
TMS may not be suitable, or requires careful evaluation, for individuals who:
Have certain types of metal implants or devices in or near their head (e.g., aneurysm clips, some cochlear implants).
Have an uncontrolled seizure disorder or a condition that significantly raises seizure risk.
Are experiencing active substance use that could disrupt attendance or safety.
Have a diagnosis of Bipolar I Disorder, due to the risk of inducing mania (though it can be used with careful clinical monitoring).
It's important to always be transparent with your clinical team. A full medical and medication history is the key to creating a safe and effective treatment plan.
Safety & Side Effects of TMS Therapy: What to Expect
One of the primary reasons patients choose TMS is its excellent safety profile. Most side effects are mild, temporary, and localized to the treatment site.
Likelihood | What Patients Feel | Typical Duration |
Common | Scalp tenderness, tapping sensation, mild headache, jaw tension. | First 1–2 weeks, then usually fades. |
Less Common | Lightheadedness, temporary spike in anxiety, sleep changes. | Days to a few weeks. |
Rare | Seizure (very rare), mania/hypomania (in bipolar patients). | Single event / episodic. |
Our Approach at Sophroneo:
"Patient comfort is our top priority. The tapping sensation is new for everyone at first. Our technicians are highly trained to adjust the coil position for comfort, provide ear protection, and encourage short breaks. We find that by the second week, most patients adapt comfortably to the sensation."
Cost & Insurance of TMS Therapy: What You’ll Likely Pay
After safety and efficacy, cost is the most important factor. Here is a realistic breakdown of what to expect.
If you are insured: TMS is often covered by most major insurance plans (including Medicare) once the prior authorization criteria are met (i.e., a confirmed diagnosis and a history of failed medication trials). Your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your specific plan's deductible, copay, or coinsurance.
If you are not insured: Most clinics, including Sophroneo, offer self-pay packages and may have financing options available. A full course of treatment can range from $6,000–$12,000.
Our Commitment to Transparency at Sophroneo:
"We believe financial stress should never be a barrier to mental healthcare. Before you commit to anything, our team will conduct a free insurance benefits check and provide you with a written estimate of your total out-of-pocket cost. There are no surprises."
A Realistic TMS Timeline: How Fast Will I Feel Better?
Recovery is a gradual process. Here is a typical timeline based on what we see in our clinic.
Weeks 1–2: The focus is on getting you accustomed to the daily sessions. Some people notice early, subtle changes in their sleep or energy levels.
Weeks 3–4: This is the most common window for a noticeable improvement in mood. Often, family and friends are the first to spot the positive changes.
Weeks 5–6: The benefits typically consolidate during this period. Your clinician will review your progress scores (like the PHQ-9) to determine the next steps.
After the Course: Many people maintain their results long-term. For some, occasional "booster" or maintenance sessions may be recommended if symptoms begin to return.
NeuroStar TMS vs. Other TMS Devices
While we use the
Advanced Therapy system at Sophroneo, it's one of several excellent, FDA-cleared devices on the market.
Key Concept: All leading TMS devices (including NeuroStar®, BrainsWay®, MagVenture®, etc.) operate on the same fundamental principle of using magnetic fields to stimulate the brain.
Primary Differences: The main differences lie in the shape of the magnetic coil (e.g., Figure-8 vs. H-Coil) and the specific treatment protocols or session lengths they are cleared for.
What Matters Most: The skill of the clinical team, the accuracy of the treatment location, and your consistent attendance are often more important than the specific brand of the device. Instead of fixating on the brand, ask your provider: "What protocol will you use, and how will you measure my progress?"
Ready to Explore NeuroStar TMS?
At Sophroneo Behavioral Health & TMS, we understand the mental and financial weight of seeking treatment. That’s why we offer personalized consultations, transparent pricing, and compassionate guidance to help you determine if NeuroStar TMS is right for you.
Visit https://www.soppsych.com/contact or call us at 770-999-9495 to book your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is NeuroStar TMS painful?
Most of our patients describe it as a tapping or tingling sensation on the scalp that is not painful. While it can be a bit uncomfortable during the first few sessions, it typically becomes much more tolerable within the first two weeks as you get used to it.
Can I work or drive after a session?
Yes. Because there is no sedation or anesthesia, you can drive yourself to and from your appointments and return to your normal daily activities, including work, immediately afterward.
What if medications haven’t helped me?
This is precisely the reason TMS was developed and is now covered by insurance. TMS is specifically indicated for patients who have not received adequate benefit from antidepressant medications. Our clinical team will carefully review your past treatment trials to confirm your candidacy.
How long do the results from TMS last?
The durability of the results varies. Many people experience relief that lasts for many months or years after their acute course of treatment. If symptoms do return, maintenance or "booster" sessions are an effective option to maintain your gains.
Will my insurance cover it?
In our experience, yes, most insurance plans will cover TMS once the clinical criteria for treatment-resistant depression are met. Our team at Sophroneo has extensive experience with the prior authorization process and will handle the submission to your insurance company on your behalf.
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