About NeuroStar TMS Therapy
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
- It’s covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare
With more than 5.6 million treatments delivered, this novel treatment approach to achieving remission is bringing new hope to people every day.
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, 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 7 weeks.*
TMS Testimonials
Kelly’s Story
Todd’s Story
Johara’s Story
I felt it helped dig me out of a deep hole. I’ve tried a lot of medication over the years but still had symptoms. After a few treatments i was singing in the car. Dr Bodrog and Anita are thoughtful and kind and want you to have a good experience. I will go back for maintenance therapy in the fall.
— Jenna H.
This is my last session of TMS! I would get into depressed dark holes and sometimes it would take me a couple weeks to pull myself out, crying, anxious worry state. After trying ever medication known to man since I was 21, two hospitalizations I really think this improved my worrying. I am much more happier. Kind of a sense of calm. It is a big commitment, I started the middle of May I was laid off, went back to work beginning of June and they were willing to work around my work schedule, which is a plus. Giving it a try does not hurt! The tapping is weird the first few times then you get use to it. It does not hurt. The staff are very helpful and kind. Good Luck!!
— Caitlin B.
Dr.B is absolutely amazing 🤩 he actually listens to you and helps instead of giving you the run around! I would highly recommend going to see Dr.B!I highly recommend going to see Dr.B especially if other doctors are not listening to your needs he will actually help you get to where you need to be!
— DeeÁnna C.
TMS Clinical Trials & Academic Studies
- Reid, P. D., Shajahan, P. M., Glabus, M. F., & Ebmeier, K. P. (1998). Transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression. The British journal of psychiatry : the journal of mental science, 173, 449–452. https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.173.6.449
- Martin, J. L., Barbanoj, M. J., Schlaepfer, T. E., Clos, S., Perez, V., Kulisevsky, J., & Gironell, A. (2002). Transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2002(2), CD003493. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003493
- Tredget, J., Kirov, G., & Dunn, E. (2005). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression. Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987), 19(37), 49–50. https://doi.org/10.7748/ns2005.05.19.37.49.c3876
“The NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System is indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes and for decreasing anxiety symptoms for those who may exhibit comorbid anxiety symptoms in adult patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and who failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from previous antidepressant medication treatment in the current episode.”