After your complimentary consult with our TMS Coordinator, and after we’ve secured your insurance authorization, you’ll meet with our board certified psychiatrist, Dr. Katherine Rizzo. You’ll spend about two hours with us, during which we’ll complete a full psychiatric evaluation and begin the mapping process, setting the stage for effective treatment. The evaluation will help us understand your mental health background and customize your treatment plan.

What happens during the psychiatric evaluation?

This part of the session focuses on understanding your mental health history, treatment goals, and any medical conditions that may impact your TMS therapy. Our goal is to ensure that TMS is right for you and to gather essential information for the treatment plan.

What is TMS Mapping?

Mapping, or motor threshold (MT) determination, is an essential part of your treatment. Here, Dr. Rizzo will assess your brain’s response to magnetic pulses, which helps determine the optimal intensity and location for treatment. Mapping helps us fine-tune the power of the magnetic pulses delivered to your brain during the rest of the sessions, ensuring the best possible results.

During mapping, you’ll feel a light tapping sensation as the pulses are delivered. It might feel a bit strange, but it’s completely safe and non-invasive. It entire process lasts about 45 minutes and involves finding the right spot for the treatment coil based on your brain’s responses. This is crucial for targeting the right areas of the brain, and we will monitor your comfort throughout the process.

After Mapping: The First Treatment

Once mapping is completed, the next day you can begin your first TMS therapy session! The initial treatment session will only last around 19 minutes. You’ll feel a continuous tapping sensation, similar to what you experienced during mapping, as the magnetic pulses work their magic.

Here’s what you can expect during your first treatment:

• Relaxed but alert: You’ll remain awake and alert during the entire process. Many patients choose to watch TV, talk with staff, or simply relax.
  
  
• Safety and comfort: A trained TMS technician will be with you the entire time, ensuring your safety and comfort. They’ll monitor your response to the treatment, adjusting as needed.
  
  
• Mild sensations: Some people report mild discomfort, such as a headache or scalp tenderness, but these symptoms typically subside after a few treatments. You can take over-the-counter pain relief if needed.
  
  

What to Wear and How to Prepare

When preparing for your first session, comfort is key! Here’s what we suggest:

• Wear comfortable clothing: You’ll be sitting in a chair for a while, so make sure you’re dressed comfortably.
  
  
• Wear your hair down: TMS requires the application of a “coil” to the scalp, so having your hair down can make the process easier.
  
  
• Stick to your normal routine: You don’t need to make any drastic changes to your daily routine. Eat breakfast or lunch as usual, take any prescribed medication, and drink your usual amount of caffeine.
  
  
• Bring a friend or family member: You are welcome to bring a loved one with you if it helps you feel more comfortable.
  
  

What Happens After Your First Session?

After your first session, there are a few things to know:

• Resuming normal activities: Unlike medications, TMS therapy doesn’t require a long recovery time. You can return to your normal activities immediately after treatment — drive, go to work, or continue with your day.
  
  

Mild side effects: Some people experience mild side effects like headache or scalp tenderness, but these usually go away after a few sessions. If needed, an over-the-counter pain reliever can help.