Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates, LLC

Psychiatric & Mental Health Specialists located in North Chelmsford, MA

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) offers non-pharmacological help to people who suffer from depression. It can also be used in conjunction with other therapies to improve the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other mental health conditions.  Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates, LLC, currently offers this innovative treatment option in North Chelmsford, MA located right in the heart of the Merrimack Valley.  Ronald P. Winfield, MD, uses the cutting-edge CloudTMS™ system to help people overcome depression and other conditions. If you’ve been treated for depression in the past without success, schedule an evaluation for TMS at our office.  Please call our intake line at 978-256-6579 x11 if you are interested in learning more about TMS treatment at Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates, LLC

 

TMS

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, is a non-pharmacologic procedure that administers magnetic pulses to your skull to activate neurotransmitters in your brain. The neurotransmitters then stimulate neuron activity in areas of your brain that are responsible for mood regulation.

TMS is most commonly used to treat depression in patients who haven’t had success with other treatments. Studies have also shown TMS to be effective for patients with other mental health disorders, especially those that have a relationship to depression. 

Which conditions can be treated with TMS?

TMS is used extensively in the treatment of a major depressive disorder. However, studies have shown that it’s also effective for other mental health conditions, such as:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Adult attention-deficit disorder/ Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD)
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

 

Currently, TMS is a FDA-approved treatment for depression only, with hopes to be approved for treatment of PTSD, ADD/ADHD, and OCD in the future.

The highly-trained and experienced providers at Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates use the innovative CloudTMS system in conjunction with other therapies to offer comprehensive mental health care that’s tailored to meet your individual needs.

How does TMS work?

During your TMS procedure, you sit comfortably in a reclining chair next to the TMS machine, which has a small monitor and an arm affixed with an electromagnetic coil. Your caring provider gives you earplugs to wear during the session and then places the electromagnetic coil snugly against your head.

The TMS machine delivers stimulating pulses to your brain through your skull. You may hear short periods of tapping or clicking, followed by a brief silence. Your provider adjusts the amount of magnetic stimulation based on your response to the treatment.

Your TMS procedure will last about 30-40 minutes. You may feel some mild scalp discomfort during your treatment, and this may continue for a short time after your session is complete. Most people can return to normal activities immediately after their TMS procedure.

Is TMS safe?

TMS is an FDA-approved, non-invasive procedure that’s generally safe. Some people experience mild side effects, such as headaches, facial twitching, or light-headedness.

Before recommending TMS, your Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates expert carefully reviews your health history to ensure that you don’t have any contraindications for treatment.

If you haven’t had success with therapy and antidepressants, TMS may help your depression. To schedule an evaluation, call Greater Lowell Psychiatric Associates today.  Please contact our Intake Coordinator at 978-256-6579 x11 for further information on getting started with TMS.