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Does it seem like you’ve tried everything for depression treatment? Columbia Associates offers transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), an FDA-approved alternative for treatment-resistant depression. As an alternative to therapy, medication, and other traditional approaches, TMS therapy can lead to lasting positive outcomes. You might benefit from TMS therapy if other approaches haven’t worked. Reach out to our team at 703.682.8208 to learn more about our TMS therapy program and other mental health treatment services.

An Overview of Our TMS Therapy Program

Wondering what TMS therapy is? This depression treatment is entirely non-invasive, using magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain. This safe, painless, and FDA-approved therapy works differently than other traditional treatment approaches.

By stimulating areas of the brain that control mood, TMS therapy can make a lasting impact on depression. Treatment sessions are quick and straightforward, taking place in our comfortable office setting. Sessions take place over the course of a few weeks, and you go home with no lasting side effects. It involves a series of sessions, typically five times per week for four to six weeks.

What to Expect in a TMS Therapy Program

TMS is a non-invasive procedure, meaning it does not require any kind of surgery or medications. The process is simple and painless—clients only need to sit in a comfortable chair while the magnetic field is administered through a coil placed against their forehead. Typically, clients report feeling relaxed during the procedure with no feelings of discomfort or pain.

A TMS treatment program is a safe and effective alternative to medications. However, it’s important to speak with your doctor about all the treatment options available to you. If you’ve exhausted traditional treatment options on your journey to healing, Columbia Associates can help you determine if TMS therapy is right for you. Your comfort, control, and well-being are our top priorities, and we’re here to answer your questions and give you the information you need to find the right solution.

Frequently Asked Questions About TMS Therapy

Yes, TMS is a safe and FDA-approved depression treatment. TMS treats your depression without drugs, so it doesn’t have the long list of systemic side effects associated with traditional antidepressant medications. It is different from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and does not have any of the side effects associated with ECT. Few clients report any side effects, with headaches being the most common. If you do experience side effects, our clinicians can adjust the treatment to make sure you’re comfortable and safe.
Administering NeuroStar TMS consists of delicately placing a coil on your head. During this treatment, you’ll notice a gentle tapping sensation, and afterward, you can feel free to proceed with the rest of your day as normal without any interruption to alertness or memory.
TMS therapy is appropriate for clients ages five and up. Those under 18 are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and may be referred for further specialty care from another provider if necessary.
No, unless you are required by your insurance to be seen by a specialist. Please contact your insurance provider with any questions.
If you struggle with depression, anxiety symptoms associated with depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder but have not benefitted from your current medications, TMS may be right for you. If you have already sought out various medications for depression, but still haven’t found the necessary relief from your symptoms, TMS therapy may be able to help. Unlike other forms of treatments such as shock therapy or surgery, which can carry undesirable side effects, TMS is a procedure that takes place in-office over a period of six weeks and only requires 19 minutes per daily session.
TMS therapy can result in drastic improvements only two to three weeks after commencing treatment. These changes might include a more positive mood, fewer days of depression, and an increased desire to socialize with others. Your friends and family may even notice the effects before you do. To experience long-term relief from depression, it is essential to see through TMS therapy by completing its entire six-week course—this will guarantee the best possible results for overcoming depressive symptoms.
A study of real-world outcomes reported an 83% response rate which means clients experienced notable relief, and a 62% remission rate which means their depression effectively went away. The STAR*D study, the largest clinical trial of MDD ever conducted, showed that the rate of remission goes down with each new medication needed. If you’ve tried three or more medications, the chance of remission was just 7%.
If you’ve tried medication to treat your depression, but it hasn’t been effective, TMS therapy may be the answer for you. Most insurance plans including Medicare and Tricare cover this type of treatment. Simply contact us to learn more about coverage options from your specific provider.

TMS therapy is an effective and safe alternative to other forms of depression treatment. It’s important to speak with your doctor about all the available treatment options, but with TMS, you may be able to finally find the relief you’ve been seeking.

At Columbia Associates, we’re here to help you find the right depression treatment for your needs. We offer comprehensive assessments and a variety of therapeutic options, including TMS therapy. Contact us today at 703.682.8208 to get started on your journey toward improved mental health.

Get the Help You Need Today with Our TMS Therapy Program