How does Smart Brain and Health TMS Therapy differ from other TMS treatment centers worldwide?

Our certified staff combines the use of the functional MRI (fMRI), PET/CT, and Neuronavigation, performed all in one center, to accurately target the location of the brain for TMS Therapy for ultimate success and durability.

What is functional MRI (fMRI)? What is Advanced MRI?

fMRI is one of the most advanced techniques that show brain activity in real time. Smart Brain and Health fMRI technology utilizes patented imaging techniques and procedures which achieve positive TMS results for treating Depression and other brain disorders.

What is Neuronavigation?

Neuronavigation is a computer-based tool that is used in conjunction with fMRI images that enables our physicians to precisely target the location of the brain for TMS Therapy. With Neuronavigation precision, Smart Brain and Health has demonstrated a higher percentage of positive patient responses to TMS Therapy. It’s like “GPS for the Brain.”™

Is TMS Therapy right for me?

The FDA has approved TMS for the treatment of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder who have failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from one prior antidepressant medication; however, Smart Brain and Health continues to research other therapies with success. TMS should not be used by patients with nonremovable metallic devices in or around the head, such as pacemakers. Contact our team to determine if TMS Therapy is right for you.

How long is a TMS Treatment session?

Our Standard TMS Therapy session lasts approximately 40 minutes. The standard course of treatment consists of 5 sessions per week over a 4-6 week period. Smart Brain and Health collaborates with your Psychiatrist on a regular basis to ensure your treatments are personalized to your brain disorder, making adjustments as necessary.

Are there side effects to TMS Therapy?

During TMS Therapy, you may experience headaches as well as some scalp discomfort, which often improves after further treatments and can be remedied with an Over-the-Counter analgesic. At Smart Brain and Health, we will assure that you are as comfortable as possible. There is a rare risk of seizure associated with TMS therapy that occurs in less than 0.1% of people. There is no adverse effect on cognition. People should notify their doctor if they experience worsening depression symptoms, signs, or symptoms of suicidal behavior and/or unusual behavior. Family members and support individuals should also be aware of the need to observe their loved ones and notify their treatment provider if symptoms worsen.

Is TMS Therapy a good alternative to Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)?

What insurance plans do you accept?

Smart Brain and Health is currently an Out-of-Network provider with all insurances, however our team is currently in the process of getting credentialed with Medicare, TRICare, and major PPO insurance plans. Please call our office to learn more about the costs associated with our variety of services. Authorizations for TMS Treatments can be obtained on case-by-case basis depending on the Out-of-Network guidelines set for by your insurance.

What is the preparation for TMS Treatment?

On treatment days, you can perform your normal daily activities such as driving to and from Smart Brain and Health, eating, and drinking. It is advisable to check with your treating physician first before discontinuing any medication, including blood pressure and heart medication, as well as any medication you are currently taking for your neurological disorder.

What to expect for your first TMS Treatment?

Our friendly and highly trained staff will make you feel welcome. Your first TMS Therapy sessions will last over an hour, as our Smart Brain physician will target your treatment site utilizing Neuronavigation and your fMRI images. A certified technologist will perform a test to identify your Motor Threshold, which is the amount of magnetic-field strength applied that results in an involuntary movement of your right hand. This test identifies the magnetic-field strength which will be used in your treatment. The Technologist will seat you comfortably in our TMS Chair and administer the treatment.

During therapy, you will hear a repetitive clicking sound that mimics a tapping sensation on your scalp. This is the magnet stimulating or suppressing the targeted area to restore it to its normal function.

What to expect for your subsequent TMS Treatment sessions?

Most standard TMS sessions will last approximately 1 hour. All patients are assessed weekly for potential changes in their TMS prescription. Mid-treatment patients will complete another fMRI to check progress. Post-treatment patients will complete a final fMRI to determine discharge.

For patients who are comfortable with the maximum prescription of Standard TMS, our Smart Brain physician may determine their eligibility to upgrade their prescription for Theta Burst TMS (TBS). TBS sessions will last approximately 3-5 minutes.