The Magstim Horizon 3.0 system used at Center for New Growth has FDA-cleared indications that include:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults who have not experienced satisfactory improvement with antidepressant medication
• Major Depressive Disorder in adolescents ages 15–21, as an adjunctive treatment
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in adults, as an adjunctive treatment
• Anxious depression, or reducing anxiety symptoms in adults with Major Depressive Disorder who also experience significant anxiety symptoms

TMS is also being actively studied for a number of other psychiatric and neurological conditions including smoking cessation, migraine headaches and substance use disorders.

Not every use of TMS has received FDA clearance. If you are interested in TMS for a condition other than those listed above, our clinical team can discuss the available evidence, potential risks and whether treatment would be considered off-label.

Most people describe TMS as a tapping or knocking sensation against the scalp.

The sensation can feel unusual or uncomfortable at first, particularly during the first several sessions. Most people become accustomed to it as treatment progresses.

The most common side effects are temporary scalp discomfort or headache.

A seizure is a rare but serious potential risk of TMS. This is one reason we carefully review medications, neurological history and other risk factors before beginning treatment.

During TMS, an electromagnetic coil rests gently against the scalp and delivers a series of magnetic pulses to a targeted area of the brain.

These pulses create a small electrical current in the underlying brain tissue, influencing the activity of neural circuits involved in mood and other functions.

For depression, treatment generally targets an area of the prefrontal cortex involved in mood regulation. Repeated stimulation over a course of treatment can help change patterns of activity within the networks involved in depression.

Because the stimulation is targeted, TMS works very differently from medications that travel throughout the body.

Unlike a medication that is taken every day, TMS works through a course of repeated treatments.

A typical treatment course for depression involves approximately 30–36 sessions, usually given five days per week for about six weeks, followed by a gradual taper.

Your exact treatment schedule may vary depending on your diagnosis, treatment protocol, response and insurance coverage.

Some people may benefit from additional or maintenance treatment after completing their initial course. Your clinical team will evaluate your progress throughout treatment and discuss longer-term recommendations with you.

Choosing TMS does not mean you need to stop your other mental health care.

Many people continue antidepressant medication, psychotherapy or both while receiving TMS.

At Center for New Growth, we can also coordinate TMS with other treatments when clinically appropriate, including psychiatric medication management, psychotherapy, SPRAVATO® and ketamine-based care.

We welcome collaboration with your existing therapist, psychiatrist or primary care provider.

TMS for treatment-resistant depression is covered by many insurance plans when medical-necessity criteria are met.

Center for New Growth currently accepts Medicare and Medi-Cal through Carelon Behavioral Health with participating providers.

Insurance plans typically require documentation of your diagnosis and previous treatment history before authorizing TMS. Requirements vary by insurer.

Our team will review your benefits and help determine whether authorization is required before treatment begins.

We do not currently bill private or commercial insurance directly. Please contact us if you would like to discuss self-pay options or documentation for possible out-of-network reimbursement.

TMS is well tolerated by many people, but it is not appropriate for everyone.

Particular consideration is needed for people who have:

• certain metal objects or implanted devices in or near the head
• cochlear implants
• implanted brain stimulators or other electronic devices
• a history of seizures or conditions that increase seizure risk
• medications or medical conditions that may significantly alter seizure threshold

Dental fillings and most standard dental work generally do not prevent someone from receiving TMS.

Your clinician will complete a detailed safety screening before treatment begins.