Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

When medication or talk therapy alone isn’t enough to ease the symptoms of severe depression, other treatments may help. Banner Health offers transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, a proven, noninvasive treatment that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood control. 

Our goal is to help you find relief from depression and regain a sense of balance and well-being - safely and effectively. 

If you’re in crisis 

People living with severe depression may experience emotional distress or thoughts of suicide. You are not alone. 

If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation 

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an advanced, FDA-approved therapy used to treat depression that hasn’t improved with medication or psychotherapy. 

During TMS, a health care provider uses an electromagnetic coil placed near your forehead to deliver small magnetic pulses to the part of the brain that regulates mood. This stimulation helps activate underactive nerve cells and improve communication in brain networks linked to depression. 

TMS is: 

• Noninvasive – no surgery or anesthesia is needed 
• Safe and well-tolerated – side effects are typically mild and short-lived 
• Convenient – sessions are performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can return to normal activities immediately after treatment 

What to expect during TMS therapy 

Each TMS session takes about 20 to 40 minutes. You’ll sit in a comfortable chair while a clinician positions the magnetic coil gently against your head. 

You may hear a clicking sound and feel light tapping on your scalp during treatment. Most patients describe the procedure as painless, though mild scalp discomfort or headache can occur after the first few sessions. 

TMS therapy is usually administered five days a week for four to six weeks, depending on your care plan. Many patients notice gradual improvement in mood, energy and focus over time. 

Is TMS right for you? 

TMS may be an option if you: 

• Have major depressive disorder or treatment-resistant depression 
• Have tried antidepressant medications or psychotherapy without enough relief 
• Want a noninvasive therapy that doesn’t require anesthesia or hospitalization 

Your Banner Health provider will review your medical history and current symptoms to determine whether TMS is appropriate for you. 

Why choose Banner Health for TMS therapy 

At Banner Health, you’ll receive care from a compassionate team of behavioral health specialists who understand that every journey with depression is unique. We offer: 

• Expertise in advanced, evidence-based treatments 
• Personalized care plans tailored to your goals and lifestyle 
• A supportive environment focused on safety, comfort and long-term well-being 

If you’ve been struggling with depression that hasn’t improved with other treatments, talk to your doctor about whether transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy may help you feel like yourself again. 

Find a Banner Health behavioral health specialist.