TMS Treatment for Depression (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) — Renton & Eastside
When depression symptoms don’t improve with traditional treatment approaches, it can feel like you’re running out of options. At Optimum Mental Health Services (OPMHS), we help patients explore advanced, non-invasive options such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Our team can help facilitate referrals to trusted providers and guide you through the next steps, ensuring you have clear expectations and coordinated support throughout the process.
What Is TMS?
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for depression that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
These magnetic pulses help “activate” underactive brain regions that may not be functioning normally in people with depression. Over time, this stimulation can improve communication between brain cells and help reduce depressive symptoms.
Our Coordinated TMS Pathway
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What to Expect
TMS is designed to fit into real life. While every plan is personalized, patients often appreciate that:
- Your team tracks comfort and response over time and discusses adjustments or next steps as needed. Your progress is monitored by a PMHNP who specializes in TMS.
- Visits are scheduled in a consistent rhythm (often on weekdays), so progress is measurable.
- Sessions are done in an outpatient setting—patients may resume normal activities afterward.
Who May Benefit from TMS?
TMS may be considered for adults experiencing:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) *often defined as a form of major depressive disorder that does not improve after at least two trials of antidepressants or psychotherapy
- Depression symptoms that persist despite medication and/or therapy
- Those seeking a non-invasive outpatient option
FAQ’s
TMS is delivered on a structured schedule and requires a series of treatment sessions to be effective. Generally, sessions are carried out daily, five times a week, for 4 to 6 weeks.
Most health insurance plans cover TMS Therapy for depression, but some conditions must be met first. Each plan has its own requirements, some of the most common ones are:
- A DSM-5 diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Documentation of trials of antidepressant medications that have not worked for you. Some insurances may request different medication classes (i.e SSRI, SNRI, MAOI’s, etc.).
- A trial of psychotherapy with a credentialed psychotherapist (Psychologist, LMFT, LCSW, etc.)
- Must be over the age of 18
Yes, you can and generally should continue with your current therapy and medication during TMS treatment. Combining these approaches is safe and often enhances outcomes; you should, however, maintain close communication with your provider.
If TMS isn’t the right fit for you—or if you complete treatment and don’t experience the improvement you were hoping for—please know that you are not out of options, and you are not without hope. Through our partnership with Eastside, you’ll receive a thoughtful, individualized evaluation, and we will continue to support you in finding the right path forward.
If TMS is not appropriate or isn’t effective, our psychiatric provider, Prisca Nwizugbo, can evaluate you for Spravato® (esketamine) treatment. Spravato is an FDA-approved, in-clinic nasal spray designed for treatment-resistant depression. It works differently than traditional antidepressants and TMS, and has helped many individuals find meaningful relief when other treatments have not been enough.
Our commitment is to stay with you in the process and ensure you always have compassionate, evidence-based options for healing.