If you’ve been struggling with depression that hasn’t improved with medication or therapy, you may have heard about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. For individuals in San Antonio, TMS offers a powerful, drug-free alternative that is covered by most insurance plans.
At Cantera Psychiatry, we help treat your mental health holistically. We’re proud to bring FDA-approved, insurance-covered TMS therapy to San Antonio, offering a safe and effective option for individuals seeking relief without the side effects of traditional medications. Understanding what to expect before, during, and after treatment can help reduce anxiety and build confidence in this innovative therapy, so here’s everything you need to know.
What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-surgical procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain regions responsible for mood and emotional regulation.
During TMS, an electromagnetic coil is placed gently against the scalp. The coil delivers painless magnetic pulses to activate underactive areas of the brain, particularly the prefrontal cortex, which is often less active in individuals with depression.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS does not require anesthesia, does not induce seizures, and does not cause memory loss. It is considered safe, well-tolerated, and effective for people with treatment-resistant depression, as well as certain other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety disorders.
What to Expect Before Treatment
1. Initial Consultation and Evaluation
Your TMS journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with one of our board-certified psychiatrists. During this visit, we’ll review:
- Your medical and psychiatric history
- Any current medications
- Previous treatment responses
- Your goals and concerns regarding TMS
This assessment helps determine whether you’re a suitable candidate for TMS therapy. If approved, we’ll design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
2. Mapping Session
Before the first treatment, a mapping session is conducted to locate the optimal stimulation site on your scalp.
Using a magnetic coil, the technician identifies your motor threshold, the minimum amount of magnetic energy that causes a small twitch in your hand or fingers. This ensures the correct placement and intensity for future treatments.
3. Preparation for Your First Session
You may be asked to remove jewelry or any metal objects before treatment. Most patients continue their regular medications and daily routines throughout TMS therapy unless advised otherwise. It’s also recommended to arrive well-rested and comfortable.
What to Expect During Treatment
1. Comfortable, Outpatient Procedure
TMS sessions take place in a calm, clinical environment. You’ll sit in a comfortable chair, awake and alert for the entire session. No anesthesia or sedation is needed.
2. The Treatment Process
Once the coil is positioned based on your mapping results, it delivers brief magnetic pulses to your scalp. You may hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation, both of which are normal. Earplugs are provided to protect your hearing.
Each session lasts about 20–40 minutes, depending on your individualized protocol. The treatment is administered five days per week for approximately 6 weeks.
3. Sensations and Side Effects
Most patients describe the sensation as mild tapping or pulsing on the scalp. Temporary side effects such as minor headaches or scalp tenderness can occur, especially during the first week. These effects typically subside as your body adjusts to treatment.
What to Expect After Treatment
1. Immediate Return to Normal Activities
One of the key benefits of TMS is that there’s no downtime. You can drive, work, or resume your usual activities immediately after each session.
2. Gradual Improvement
Many patients begin noticing mood improvements around the third or fourth week of treatment, though individual responses vary. Some experience subtle improvements early on, while others notice changes closer to the end of the course. Consistency is key, completing the full treatment schedule provides the best results.
3. Ongoing Care and Maintenance
After your initial course, your psychiatrist will continue to monitor your progress through follow-up visits. Some individuals may benefit from maintenance sessions to sustain the effects of TMS over time.
Is TMS Right for You?
TMS may be a strong option if you:
- Have not achieved sufficient relief from antidepressants or therapy
- Experience intolerable side effects from medications
- Prefer a non-drug, non-invasive treatment option
- Have depression, anxiety, or OCD that has proven resistant to standard care
Your psychiatrist will thoroughly evaluate your medical history and discuss any contraindications, such as implanted metal devices or a history of seizures.
Take the Next Step Toward Wellness
TMS therapy represents a major advancement in modern psychiatry, offering a safe, evidence-based alternative for individuals struggling with depression and anxiety. At Cantera Psychiatry, our team provides compassionate, data-driven care designed to help you regain balance and improve quality of life.
If you’ve tried medication without lasting relief, TMS may be your next step. Contact us today to schedule your TMS consultation and begin your path toward mental wellness.
