Your Guide to TMS: What to Expect During Treatment

Living with a mental health disorder that doesn’t respond to treatment is devastating – but you have a noninvasive option: TMS therapy. Learn more about what to expect during TMS and how it works to alleviate depression symptoms.

Depression is a challenging mental health issue that often brings feelings of hopelessness and loss of interest in what you love. Although medications and therapy are important treatments, we understand that they may not work for everyone—and you are not alone on your journey.

If you’re living with treatment-resistant depression or OCD, know that we are here for you. Pacific Phoenix Psychiatry & TMS offers transcranial magnetic stimulation to support those with treatment-resistant depression, OCD, and PTSD.

At Pacific Phoenix Psychiatry & TMS, Dr. Elia R. Gonzalez-Rodriguez, a psychiatry expert, offers various treatments for mental health problems in veterans and other individuals.

Understanding what to expect from treatments like TMS can help you make informed decisions about your mental health journey.

The initial TMS consultation

When you schedule your initial appointment, Dr. Gonzalez-Rodrigez sets up a consultation to discuss whether you qualify for TMS. She also sets treatment goals, so you know what to expect at each stage.

She also discusses your mental health history, including treatments you’ve tried before and how you responded. Lastly, she will discuss symptoms you’ve been experiencing and your overall mental health.

Understanding the procedure

Once cleared, we begin the process. On the first day, wear comfortable clothing, eat normally, and remove any metal from the treatment area. The first session consists of mapping, a process in which we find the optimal placement for the coil and the appropriate intensity.

You will feel a few pulses from the magnetic coil as we identify the optimal settings. Remain seated and relaxed while the coil is placed on your head. You stay awake throughout the procedure.

The treatment lasts anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your specific protocol. During this time, you will feel a tapping sensation on your head. Some patients describe it as slightly uncomfortable, but this usually improves after a few sessions.

The magnetic pulses change how your brain works. They penetrate the skull to reach the nerves below, helping underactive areas wake up, and overactive areas calm down.

Once your treatment is complete, we remove the magnetic coil, and you can go about your day.

What to expect afterward

A great aspect of TMS therapy is that it’s noninvasive and doesn’t require any downtime. You can go home and go about your day afterward without any restrictions.

With each treatment, you should notice a difference in how you feel, though it can take several weeks to several months to achieve optimal benefits.

You may be wondering how many treatment sessions are needed to achieve the best results. The number of treatments you need depends on various factors, including how you respond to it and the severity of your condition. Most people need five treatments per week for up to six weeks for optimal results.

Consistency is key to your progress. Each treatment moves you closer to improved mental health and happiness, and our team is always here to cheer you on and support your well-being.

We are dedicated to supporting you on your path to renewed mental well-being. Proudly serving the greater Portland area—including Salmon Creek, Vancouver, and Steilacoom-Lakewood—we look forward to walking alongside you as you work toward your best self.

Call or message us today to set up an appointment for TMS therapy.