NeuroStar TMS Therapy
When antidepressants haven't provided relief, NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation targets depression at its source, delivering real, lasting results without the side effects of medication.
Treatment at the Source
NeuroStar TMS uses MRI-strength magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain regions responsible for mood regulation. Unlike antidepressant medications that circulate through your entire body via the bloodstream, TMS precisely targets the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, the area directly linked to depression.
By reactivating dormant synapses in this region, NeuroStar effectively "wakes up" the neural connections that depression has weakened. This targeted approach means no systemic side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, sedation, nausea, or dry mouth.
NeuroStar is backed by the largest clinical data set of any TMS system and the world's largest depression Outcomes Registry, with over 229,000 patients treated across the United States.
Magnetic Pulses
Same strength as MRI technology
Precision Targeting
Focused on mood-regulating regions
No Medication
Zero systemic side effects
Reactivation
Wakes dormant neural pathways
Real-World Results
Data from the NeuroStar Outcomes Registry, the largest depression outcomes database for any TMS system.
After two failed antidepressant trials, the chance of remission with the next medication drops to approximately 16%. After three or more failed trials, it falls below 7%. NeuroStar offers a proven path forward when medications have not provided adequate relief.
Who NeuroStar Treats
NeuroStar is FDA-cleared for multiple conditions, offering a targeted alternative when traditional treatments haven't been enough.
Major Depressive Disorder
For adults who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication in the current episode.
Primary IndicationAnxious Depression
Decreasing anxiety symptoms in adult patients with MDD who exhibit comorbid anxiety alongside their depression.
FDA-ClearedOCD
Adjunct treatment for adults with obsessive-compulsive disorder when first-line therapies have been insufficient.
Adjunct TreatmentAdolescent Depression
First-line adjunct for patients ages 15 to 21 with MDD. Requires parental consent and careful clinical assessment.
Ages 15-21What to Expect
TMS is a simple, outpatient procedure with no sedation, no recovery time, and no impact on your daily activities.
Consultation and Evaluation
Your provider reviews your treatment history, conducts a safety screening, and determines if TMS is right for you. We discuss the process, timeline, expectations, and handle insurance pre-authorization.
First Session: Brain Mapping
Your provider precisely locates the treatment area and establishes your motor threshold, the personalized magnetic strength calibrated specifically for your brain. This first session typically takes 40 to 60 minutes.
Treatment Sessions
You sit in a comfortable reclined chair while the magnetic coil delivers focused pulses. You can read, listen to music, or relax. You may feel a tapping sensation on the scalp that typically diminishes after the first week. Staff are present throughout every session.
Resume Normal Activities
No anesthesia. No sedation. No recovery time. Drive yourself home, go back to work, exercise as normal. TMS fits into your daily routine without disruption.
Progress Monitoring
We track your response using validated outcome measures including the PHQ-9, GAD-7, and clinical assessments at regular intervals throughout treatment, so every decision is guided by data.
Week by Week
Understanding what to expect at each stage of your TMS treatment course.
Adaptation
Your brain is adjusting to stimulation. Scalp discomfort is common and resolves quickly. Few noticeable symptom changes yet. Some patients experience a temporary "TMS dip," which is actually a sign the brain is responding.
Early Response
Subtle improvements often emerge. Better sleep quality, increased energy, and small shifts in mood or motivation. Others may notice changes before you do.
Significant Relief
Most patients who respond experience meaningful improvement during this phase. Mood lifts noticeably, interest in activities returns, and daily functioning improves.
Consolidation
The taper phase reduces session frequency while consolidating treatment gains. Your brain continues to strengthen the neural pathways that TMS has reactivated.
Maintenance
Some patients benefit from periodic booster sessions, ranging from weekly to monthly. We will discuss your individual maintenance plan as you approach the end of your acute course.
Ideal Candidates
TMS may be a good option if you relate to one or more of the following. Your provider will conduct a thorough evaluation during your consultation.
✅ You May Be a Good Candidate If...
⚠️ Important Safety Considerations
Insurance & Payment Options
TMS is covered by most major insurance plans. Our team handles the entire pre-authorization process for you.
📋 Insurance Coverage
Over 300 million Americans have insurance plans that cover NeuroStar TMS, including Medicare, Tricare, and all major commercial carriers. We verify your benefits and manage the entire pre-authorization process so you can focus on getting better.
💳 Financing Options
Interest-free financing available through Advance Care Card (6 to 14 months) and CareCredit. HSA and FSA funds can also be applied toward TMS treatment costs. We work with you to find the most accessible payment path.
💰 Self-Pay
Competitive self-pay rates available for patients who prefer to pay directly. Contact our office at (781) 803-7757 or Alex@Modern-Mentality.com to discuss pricing and flexible payment plan options.
Frequently Asked
Answers to the questions we hear most from patients considering TMS therapy.
Does TMS hurt?
Most patients feel a tapping or knocking sensation on the scalp during treatment. About 67% experience mild discomfort during the first week, which typically resolves as you adjust. Your provider can fine-tune the settings for comfort.
How long is each session?
Treatment sessions range from 19 to 37 minutes depending on your specific protocol. Including check-in and assessment, plan for approximately 45 to 60 minutes per visit. Your first mapping session runs slightly longer.
Can I continue my medications?
Yes. TMS can be used alongside your current medications. In many cases, patients work with their prescriber to adjust medications during or after TMS treatment as their symptoms improve.
When will I feel better?
Most patients who respond begin noticing improvements around weeks 4 to 6. Some experience earlier benefits, while others require the full treatment course. We track your progress with validated measures at every visit.
What happens if I miss a session?
Missing 1 to 2 sessions occasionally is manageable. Research shows gaps of up to 7 days do not significantly impact outcomes as long as the full course is completed. Consistent attendance gives you the best chance of success.
Are the results permanent?
Response has been proven durable through 12 months. Some patients benefit from periodic maintenance sessions. If retreatment is ever needed, 84% of patients respond successfully again. Completing the full course also creates the documentation needed for future insurance coverage.
What are the side effects?
The most common side effect is mild scalp discomfort at the treatment site, which diminishes after the first week. Unlike medications, TMS causes no weight gain, sexual dysfunction, sedation, nausea, or dry mouth. There is a rare risk of seizure.
Is TMS covered by insurance?
TMS is covered by most major insurance plans. FDA clearance requires failure of at least one prior antidepressant, though most insurers require documentation of 2 to 4 failed trials. Our team handles the entire pre-authorization process.
Ready to Explore TMS?
If antidepressants haven't given you the relief you deserve, TMS may be the answer. Schedule a consultation to find out if you are a candidate.