Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive stimulation therapy for the brain that involves using electromagnetic pulses to affect nerve cells that are responsible for mood control. It's usually an alternative for people when conventional therapy for depression, including medication or talk therapy, fails or results in undesirable side effects.

In contrast to Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), TMS does not need anesthesia, and it won't result in memory loss or physical pain. Let's delve into what TMS is utilized for, how it differs from other treatments, and what you can anticipate in time and expense.

What Is TMS Used For?

TMS therapy is most utilized to treat major depressive disorders, particularly when the patients are described as "treatment-resistant" meaning patients have not reacted to at least two various antidepressant medications.

TMS also promises to help with other conditions, including:

• Anxiety disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia (some symptoms)
• Chronic pain and migraines
• Tinnitus
• Stroke rehabilitation

How TMS Stacks Up Against Other Treatments

If you're thinking about TMS, you're probably curious about how it compares to more standard treatments like medication and ECT. Here's the breakdown:

Fewer Side Effects

TMS has fewer side effects than most antidepressant medications. The most frequent ones are mild scalp pain or headaches during or immediately after treatment sessions. These are usually transient and can be managed with over-the-counter analgesics.

Serious side effects such as seizures or hearing problems are very rare, particularly when TMS is given properly.

Higher Success Rates

Research indicates TMS might be more effective than drugs for most patients. A meta-analysis of 81 studies revealed:

• Remission Rate: 32% for TMS vs. 23% for drugs
• Response Rate: 49% for TMS vs. 40% for drugs

More Long-Lasting Results

TMS also seems to yield more lasting improvement. One study of the following patients for 12 months reported:

• Relapse Rate: 10% for those on maintenance TMS vs. 40% for those taking antidepressants
• Patients reported increased satisfaction and better quality of life

A More Personalized Therapy

TMS is tailored to your brain's individual needs. Clinicians first establish your motor threshold the amount of stimulation required to produce physical reactions (such as a thumb twitch). This enables precise adjustments in intensity and placement of the coil.

You can also customize treatment with various stimulation frequencies or types of coils, depending on your condition and treatment goals.

Time Commitment: What to Expect

Short, daily sessions are part of TMS treatment, usually 20 to 40 minutes, five days per week, for four to six weeks.

Two weeks are usually when most individuals begin to feel improvements, but the full impact takes longer based on your own response.

Maintenance Sessions

After the initial treatment phase, some individuals benefit from maintenance sessions shed weekly, biweekly, or monthly to prevent relapse. These ongoing sessions are personalized and adjusted based on your progress.

How Much Does TMS Therapy Cost?

The cost of TMS therapy can vary based on several factors, including your location, healthcare provider, insurance coverage, and treatment specifics.

• Average Cost Without Insurance
• Per Session: $200–$300
• Total Cost (Full Course): $6,000–$12,000
• Maintenance sessions are often cheaper per session but add up eventually.

TMS Cost with Insurance

Numerous insurance companies cover TMS therapy for depression especially when you've been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression and have not responded to multiple medications, helping to reduce your overall TMS therapy cost.

But you might be required to fulfill other criteria like:

• Prior authorization
• Number of medication trial failures
• Co-pays or session coverage limits
• Always check for coverage and out-of-pocket expenses with your insurance company.

Financial Assistance Options

If you’re uninsured or not fully covered, don’t lose hope, there are still ways to make TMS more affordable:

• Clinics may offer payment plans, sliding-scale fees, or financing options
• You might qualify for Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits
• Some therapy costs may be tax-deductible as medical expenses (consult a tax advisor)

Is TMS Worth the Investment?

Though the initial TMS treatment cost may appear to be high, TMS is often a smart investment in long-term mental health. When depression is left untreated or inadequately addressed, it can negatively impact on your health, relationships, and career, often leading to even greater expenses over time.

TMS offers the potential for substantial, long-term improvement, especially for those who haven't found relief with traditional treatment methods.

Why HWS Center for TMS?

If you're searching "how much does TMS cost" and want the best, most caring therapy, HWS Center is here to assist you.

Our Strategy

At HWS, we don't just treat the symptoms; we treat the person. Our practitioners collaborated with you to create a customized treatment plan that could entail:

• TMS Therapy
• Talk Therapy (Individual or Group)
• Integrative Options: Yoga, Meditation, Mindfulness, and more

We're dedicated to walking with you through the healing process and assisting you in Chasing your health.

Get in Touch with HWS Center Today

Ready to move forward? Call HWS Center to learn more about TMS therapy, prices, insurance coverage, and if it's the correct option for you.

Don't let unanswered questions come between you and better mental health. Call today to schedule an appointment.