Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy offers a non-invasive and drug-free approach that has proven effective in alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and OCD. It involves the use of magnetic pulses to stimulate the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex – one area of the brain involved in mood regulation. If first-line approaches such as medication or psychotherapy have not been effective, you should consider TMS as an alternative.
During your TMS Therapy Consultation, we will answer your questions and fully explain what TMS therapy is, the benefits, and information on the next steps to getting started with this better treatment option.
Your first visit is called the ‘mapping’. Mapping is a fancy term for ‘locating’ the area of the brain to be treated. For the treatment of depression, this area is called the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which is just above the left eyebrow.
During the mapping visit, we will determine your ‘motor threshold’ (the amount of energy required to invoke a stimulus). Once complete, you will receive your first treatment. Your daily treatments will be administered by a rTMS Therapy Certified Technician.
Selecting the right TMS treatment path that fits your schedule is imperative for success.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) involves one treatment per day, Monday-Friday, for 6 weeks with a 3-week wean, totaling 36 sessions. This option is good for those who cannot take off time from work or daily responsibilities. The time commitment is low.
Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS), or the SNT Protocol, is an aggressive 5-day protocol developed by Stanford Department of Psychiatry which allows patients to undergo 10 sessions/day for five consecutive days, totaling 50 iTBS sessions. The SNT protocol currently is able to report the highest rate of remission (90%) when compared to all other neuro-regenerative interventions for intractable depression.
ONE-D is a one-day TMS protocol for depression, achieving over 90% response rates. Developed by AMPA, the protocol begins with plasticity priming, followed by 20 iTBS sessions over 9.5 hours, one every 30 minutes. By combining targeted brain stimulation with plasticity priming, the ONE-D protocol is transforming depression care, making it faster, more effective, and more accessible than ever before.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, both Classic rTMS and iTBS (SNT protocol) have three ketamine boosters built in to the treatment regimen to enhance global optimization and produce a more comprehensive, long lasting remission of symptoms.
Our compassionate staff will work to ensure that you are thoroughly prepared, informed, and supported throughout your treatment journey, optimizing your potential for achieving the best possible outcomes.
TMS has been researched for over 30 years. In 2008, it received FDA approval in the U.S. for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults who did not find relief from medications. Given its proven effectiveness, researchers continue investigating the benefits of TMS for various psychiatric and neurological conditions. At Scenic City Neurotherapy, we offer the rTMS, iTBS, and ONE-D protocols, as well as ketamine-assisted TMS protocols.
Those experiencing treatment-resistant depression who have not improved with medication often benefit from TMS.
TMS targets the prefrontal cortex, sending pulses that activate underperforming networks responsible for motivation and emotional balance. Over time, this rewires the brain toward healthier patterns.
Most people feel a tapping sensation on the scalp during treatment and have no downtime afterward. Side effects are typically mild and may include brief scalp sensitivity or a light headache.
Yes. TMS is a non-medication, evidence-based treatment that uses gentle magnetic stimulation to improve mood, focus, and overall brain health without systemic side effects.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy, patients report 90% or greater remission of their depressive symptoms when completing TMS using either the SNT or the ONE-D treatment approaches.
At Scenic City Neurotherapy in Chattanooga, TMS is provided in a controlled, evidence-based setting designed to help patients improve long-term brain health and reduce depressive symptoms.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is insurance-reimbursable, and we help patients navigate that process. Insurance does not typically cover Minimally Stimulated Ketamine Infusion Therapy (MSKIT®), though many patients use health savings accounts, and we offer flexible payment options through CareCredit. Scenic City Neurotherapy also provides the SCN Service Program, which offers scholarships for those who qualify. Additionally, we are in network with Veteran Affairs, and veterans only need a VA referral to begin care. Our team will walk you through every option available and provide any documentation needed for reimbursement attempts.
