If you’re considering transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, it’s normal to feel a little unsure about what to expect. Whether you’re preparing for your first session or just exploring options, understanding the process can help ease anxiety and give you the confidence to take the next step. At NorTex Psychiatry, we’re here to guide you through every part of your TMS therapy journey in Allen, McKinney, Frisco, and Dallas, Texas.
TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that uses magnetic pulses to target specific areas of the brain linked to mood regulation. It’s most commonly used for depression that hasn’t responded well to medication or therapy. Here’s what a typical TMS therapy session looks like from start to finish.
What Happens During TMS Therapy? A Patient’s Guide
1. Before You Begin: Consultation and Evaluation
Your first step is a consultation. During this visit, our team will review your mental health history, symptoms, and any past treatments.
- You’ll meet with a provider to determine if TMS is right for you.
- We’ll discuss your goals and explain the treatment plan.
- This is when you can ask questions and share any concerns.
“TMS is personalized to each individual. We take the time to understand each patient’s needs before starting,” says Dr. Clayton Allison, M.D., psychiatrist at NorTex Psychiatry.
If you’re ready to move forward, we’ll schedule your first session and verify any insurance-covered TMS therapy options.
2. Getting Comfortable: The Setup
When you arrive for your session, you’ll be seated in a comfortable chair. No sedation is needed, and you’ll be fully awake the entire time.
- A small device called a coil is placed gently on your head.
- We’ll adjust the settings based on your motor threshold (a painless test done in your first session to find the right level of stimulation).
- You’ll be provided with earplugs, as the machine makes a clicking sound.
“We always make sure our patients feel safe and relaxed before beginning treatment,” says Brittany Huckaby, PHNP, a provider at NorTex Psychiatry.
3. The Treatment Session: What It Feels Like
Each session lasts about 20 to 40 minutes.
- The coil delivers magnetic pulses to a specific area of your brain.
- You may feel tapping or a slight tingling on your scalp.
- Most people say it feels unusual at first but isn’t painful.
You’ll be monitored throughout to ensure everything is going smoothly.
4. After Your Session: Recovery and Routine
There’s no downtime after TMS therapy. You can drive yourself home or return to work or school right away.
- Some patients report mild side effects like a headache or scalp discomfort, but these are usually short-term.
- Over time, as your brain responds to the therapy, you may begin to feel a lift in mood or clearer thinking.
5. Staying on Track: Your Treatment Schedule
TMS therapy typically involves multiple sessions:
- Most people have treatment five days a week for four to six weeks.
- Consistency is key for the best results.
- We’ll work with your schedule to make sessions easy to attend.
“TMS is not a quick fix, but with commitment and support, many of our patients see real improvements in their quality of life,” says Dr. Allison.
How to Prepare for Your First TMS Therapy Session
Here are a few simple tips to help you feel ready:
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Eat normally and take any regular medications.
- Bring questions or a journal to track how you feel after each session.
TMS Therapy Sessions Demystified: What You’ll Experience
- No surgery or anesthesia needed
- No memory loss or cognitive side effects
- A safe and well-tolerated alternative when medication hasn’t worked
Ready to Begin Your TMS Therapy Journey?
If you’re struggling with depression and want to explore a medication-free option, TMS therapy could be the next step. Our certified TMS therapy center offers personalized care in Allen, McKinney, Frisco, and Dallas, Texas.
Book a TMS therapy session today or request a TMS therapy evaluation with our compassionate team. We’ll help you schedule TMS treatment that fits your life—and guide you through every session with care.
Start your TMS therapy program today at NorTex Psychiatry—your local expert provider in affordable, effective care.
