Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Treatment

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is primarily used to treat depression and OCD, especially in cases where other treatments (like medications or psychotherapy) have been ineffective.

TMS therapy is currently available to patients in our IOP, PHP, and residential programs — as well as a standalone outpatient treatment for those not enrolled in our care.

How TMS works

  1. Magnetic Coil: A magnetic coil is placed near the patient's scalp, usually over the prefrontal cortex (the area involved in mood regulation).
  2. Magnetic Pulses: The coil generates repetitive magnetic pulses, which pass through the skull and reach specific brain regions.
  3. Brain Stimulation: These pulses stimulate the brain's nerve cells, potentially improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression by modulating neural activity.
877-711-1878

Non-Invasive

TMS doesn't require surgery or implantation of any device.

FDA-Approved

It is an FDA-approved treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Session-Based

A typical treatment involves several sessions over several weeks, with each session lasting about 5-20 minutes.

No Anesthesia

Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS does not require anesthesia or have major side effects like memory loss.

TMS side effects

  • TMS is generally well-tolerated, but side effects may include:
    • Headache (generally mild)
    • Scalp discomfort at the stimulation site
    • Lightheadedness
    • Rarely, seizures (though very uncommon)

Learn more about how TMS works at ERC Pathlight here.

TMS and mental health conditions

TMS provides an alternative for those seeking non-pharmacological treatment options, offering hope for people struggling with treatment-resistant mental health conditions. See how it works:

To see if you qualify for TMS therapy, schedule a free assessment or call 877-711-1878 to speak with one of our admissions teammates.

877-711-1878

TMS outpatient services are offered at these locations

  • Eating Recovery Center Denver - 1st Ave

    8190 E 1st Ave, Suite 105
    Denver, CO 80230

    View location

  • Eating Recovery Center Baltimore - 55 Schilling

    55 Schilling Rd, 
    Hunt Valley, MD 21030

    View Location

  • Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center Chicago - Erie

    1 E Erie St Suite 400
    Chicago, IL 60611

    View Location