What Can You Expect When Starting TMS Therapy?
Knowing exactly what to expect when starting a new mental health treatment helps many patients feel more confident about their decision. TMS in NYC is typically a straightforward process that helps people begin to feel better in around six weeks or less.
The standard treatment protocol involves 36 sessions daily, administered over 4 – 6 weeks. TMS treatments are done five times a week from Monday to Friday. Each session ranges from 20 minutes to one hour. Treatment parameters, which are determined during the initial appointment, are tailored to each individual patient and modified across the treatment course as needed.
Before starting treatment, your TMS doctors in NYC will need to determine the treatment location and energy level that will produce the best results for you. In a process called brain mapping, our team members use a single magnetic pulse to stimulate the motor cortex of the brain and observe involuntary hand movement to find just the right spot and energy level. This step is completed during a separate appointment and only takes around 20-30 minutes.
After brain mapping, you can move on to your first TMS therapy session. During this appointment, you will sit on a reclining chair similar to those found in dentist’s offices. Your doctor, TMS technician or nurse will then place the magnetic coil gently against the top-left side of your head. When you’re comfortable and ready to start, the machine will deliver quick magnetic pulses for several seconds before pausing for a short break. This cycle repeats for the length of the session, which will be determined between you and Dr. Cohen based on your specific needs. Sessions can range from 20 minutes to one hour.
During the session, you’ll hear a clicking noise with each magnetic pulse. You may also feel a slight tapping sensation. You’ll be able to stay awake during treatment, and you’ll have the option of listening to music, reading a book, watching television or chatting with the nurse or technician, who will stay in the room with you to ensure your safety and comfort.