Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Treatment option for Major Depressive Disorder

Bedford Counseling Associates, an affiliate program of The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester is now offering prescribed TMS treatments for individuals 18 and older. Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, affecting more than 19 million Americans every year, which unfortunately can affect all aspects of life. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an alternative treatment that can provide hope and relief to depression sufferers.

Are you or a loved one struggling with major depressive disorder? Have you obtained inadequate relief from antidepressants, or is it difficult to tolerate the side effects?

Below you will find answers to some of your questions.

1. What is TMS?
TMS is a non-invasive treatment where magnetic pulses are delivered to stimulate nerve cells in the part of the brain controlling the mood, which is often underactive in patients with depression. Repeated stimulation of this part of the brain has proven to produce an antidepressant effect on people suffering from depression. TMS is also known as rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) because more than one magnetic pulse is delivered to the brain during a treatment session.

2. Am I a candidate for TMS?
TMS is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior- antidepressant medication in the current episode.TMS Therapy is available by prescription only. Your doctor will use your medical history and other measures to determine whether or not you are a candidate for TMS Therapy.

To learn more about the Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation offered at Bedford Counseling Associates, click here.