TMS

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation 

What is TMS Therapy?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a breakthrough, non-invasive treatment for depression that works directly at the source — the brain.

Using focused magnetic pulses, TMS gently stimulates the areas of the brain responsible for regulating mood. When these regions are underactive, depression can take hold. TMS wakes them back up — helping the brain function the way it's meant to. Think of it as physical therapy for the brain.

Unlike medication, TMS works without drugs, without systemic side effects, and without any downtime. You arrive, complete your session, and go about your day.

Bigger Skies Mental Health is proud to be bringing TMS therapy to our Newport, Kentucky location using the NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System — the most clinically studied TMS system available. NeuroStar has been used in over 6.9 million treatments across more than 188,000 patients, with a proven safety and efficacy record spanning nearly two decades. We serve patients across the greater Cincinnati area and Northern Kentucky.

Who Is TMS Right For?

NeuroStar TMS is FDA-cleared for adults and adolescents ages 15 and older with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who have not experienced adequate relief from antidepressant medications. It is also used for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and anxiety symptoms that occur alongside depression.

TMS may be a good fit if you or your teen:

• Have tried antidepressants without finding relief

• Have struggled with difficult side effects from psychiatric medications

• Are looking for a non-drug, non-invasive treatment option

• Have been diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression, MDD, or OCD

• Are an adolescent aged 15 or older who has not responded to antidepressant medication

• Want a clinically proven, FDA-cleared alternative to medication

How Does TMS Work?

TMS uses magnetic fields — similar in strength to an MRI — to deliver focused pulses to specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. These pulses stimulate neural activity in regions that have become underactive due to depression.

Over a course of treatment, this stimulation produces lasting changes in brain activity, helping to restore emotional balance and reduce depressive symptoms. Many patients experience relief that continues well beyond the end of their treatment course.

What to Expect

The Sessions
Each TMS session takes approximately 19 minutes. During the session you will be comfortably seated and fully awake. You will feel a gentle tapping sensation on your head where the magnetic coil is placed. No sedation is needed — you can drive yourself to and from every appointment.

The Treatment Course
A full course of TMS typically involves 36 sessions over approximately 6 weeks, with appointments scheduled Monday through Friday. Your provider will work with you to build a schedule that fits your life.

The First Appointment
Your first session will be slightly longer as your provider maps the precise treatment location on your scalp to ensure accurate, personalized targeting. After mapping, your first treatment begins the same day.

Is TMS Safe?

NeuroStar TMS has been used in millions of treatments worldwide and has an excellent safety record. It is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and produces no systemic side effects like those commonly associated with antidepressant medications.

The most common side effect is mild discomfort or a tapping sensation at the treatment site during the first week of treatment. This typically resolves on its own as the body adjusts. There is no memory loss, no cognitive impairment, and no recovery time required.

Is TMS the Same as ECT?

No — TMS and ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) are very different treatments.

ECT uses electrical currents, requires sedation and anesthesia, and is associated with memory loss. TMS uses magnetic pulses, requires no sedation, causes no memory loss, and allows you to return to normal activities immediately after each session. They are not comparable in terms of experience, side effects, or recovery.

How Effective is TMS?

TMS is one of the most well-researched treatments available for depression. NeuroStar is the only TMS system clinically proven to be effective through 12 months of follow-up in patients with treatment-resistant depression — making long-term relief a realistic goal for many people.

Clinical studies show significant reductions in depressive symptoms for patients who have not responded to medication, including many who achieve full remission.

Results vary by individual. At your consultation, your provider will discuss realistic expectations based on your personal history and treatment goals.

Does Insurance Cover TMS?

Yes — TMS is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare, typically after antidepressant medications have been tried without adequate relief.

At Bigger Skies Mental Health we will help verify your benefits before you commit to anything. Contact us and we'll do the legwork for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMS

Does TMS hurt?
Most patients feel a gentle tapping or knocking sensation during treatment. Some mild scalp discomfort may occur in the first few sessions but typically fades quickly. The vast majority of patients find it very tolerable.

Can I keep taking my medications during TMS?
In most cases, yes. Your provider will review your current medications at your consultation and advise you on any adjustments needed.

Can I drive after a TMS session?
Yes — TMS requires no sedation, so you can drive yourself to and from every appointment and return to work or other activities immediately afterward.

How soon will I feel results?
Some patients begin noticing improvements within the first few weeks. Most experience the full benefit after completing the full course of treatment. Your provider will check in with you regularly throughout to monitor your progress.

Is TMS available for teenagers?
Yes — NeuroStar TMS is FDA-cleared for adolescents ages 15 and older with Major Depressive Disorder who have not responded to antidepressant medications. If you are a parent exploring options for your teen, contact us to schedule a consultation.

Is TMS only for depression?
TMS is FDA-cleared for Major Depressive Disorder and OCD, as well as anxious-depression. Research is ongoing for its use in other conditions including PTSD, anxiety disorders, and more.

TMS Coming Soon — Newport, Kentucky

We are bringing NeuroStar TMS therapy to our Newport, Kentucky location at 1019 Monmouth Street, Newport, KY 41071, serving patients from Newport, Covington, Florence, the greater Cincinnati area, and surrounding communities.

Want to be first to know when TMS scheduling opens?

Join our waitlist by contacting us at:

📧 info@biggerskiespsych.com
📞 Call or Text: (513) 957-2809

Or use the Schedule Now button to request a TMS consultation — we will reach out as soon as appointments are available.