- FDA-cleared · Drug-free · Non-invasive
NeuroStar® TMS Therapy
NeuroStar uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to target key areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression. It is not ECT (electroconvulsive therapy).
While the exact cause of depression is not known, the leading scientific theory is that it is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that send signals between brain cells.
The short answer
What is NeuroStar TMS therapy?
During a NeuroStar treatment session, a magnet similar in strength to that used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine is used to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain thought to control mood. These magnetic pulses may have a positive effect on the brain’s neurotransmitter levels.
Brain imaging and depression
A PET scan measures vital functions such as blood flow, oxygen use, and blood sugar (glucose) metabolism.
Non-depressed
Depressed
What a NeuroStar session is like
Here’s what you can expect from a NeuroStar Advanced Therapy (TMS) session
Before Treatment
During Treatment
After Treatment
Treatment with NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is easy
- Therapy sessions are conducted in your NeuroStar doctor's office
- You can return to normal activities right away
- You are awake during treatment
- Most people tolerate TMS well; the most common side effects are headache and scalp discomfort (see the FAQ below)
- Coverage is available under many insurance plans, including Medicare
TMS may be a fit if you…
- Have had side effects from antidepressants
- Want a non-medication option to add to your care
- Are looking for an FDA-cleared approach
A clinician will confirm whether TMS is appropriate for your situation during your consultation.
Who TMS may not be right for
NeuroStar® therapy insurance coverage
Since the FDA clearance of TMS in 2008, insurance coverage for eligible patients has increased significantly. Currently, there are over 60 coverage policies for TMS, including most Medicare contractors. Although TMS is not a first-line treatment, it is an alternative option for those who are not responding to or cannot tolerate medications. Call us today to speak directly with the NeuroStar Coordinator about your specific insurance plan, coverage, and eligibility. See the insurance companies our practice accepts.
Hear from NeuroStar patients
Watch how NeuroStar Advanced Therapy works and what patients say about it.
Randi's Story
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy for Mental Health.
Learn about Randi’s experiences with NeuroStar Advanced Therapy.
Don's Story
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy for Mental Health
Learn about Don’s experience with NeuroStar Advanced Therapy
Have questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation often referred to as TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when antidepressant medications haven’t been effective, have ceased working, or as an alternative to medication.
How long is TMS treatment?
A typical initial course of treatment is about 19-37 minutes daily over 4-6 weeks.
Is TMS Therapy covered by my Insurance?
Many commercial and Medicare plans cover TMS for eligible patients. Call our NeuroStar Coordinator to check your plan.
Is TMS Therapy a good alternative for patients who cannot tolerate the side effects of antidepressant medications?
Most people tolerate TMS well. TMS does not circulate in the blood throughout the body, so it is not associated with side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, dry mouth or sedation. The most common side effects reported during clinical trials were headache and scalp discomfort —generally mild to moderate—occurring less frequently after the first week of treatment.
Is TMS Therapy like other alternative therapies that use magnets to treat some illnesses?
No. TMS Therapy involves a unique method of using pulsed magnetic fields for a therapeutic benefit. The intensity of the magnetic field is similar to that of an MRI. These techniques differ radically from the popular use of low intensity, static magnetic fields. Those products deliver weak and undirected static fields that are not capable of activating brain cells. The activation and stimulation of brain cells is a key part of how TMS works.
See if TMS is right for you
Take the first step
Schedule a free consultation with our NeuroStar Coordinator to find out if this treatment is right for you.
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Clinical Trials & Academic Studies
- Carpenter LL et al. (2012). Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Major Depression: A Multisite, Naturalistic, Observational Study of Acute Treatment Outcomes in Clinical Practice. Depression and Anxiety, 29(7):587-596. PubMed 22689344
- George MS, et al. (2010). Daily Left Prefrontal Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder: A Sham-Controlled Randomized Trial. Arch Gen Psychiatry, 67(5):507-516. PubMed 20439832
- Dunner DL, et al. (2014). A Multisite, Naturalistic, Observational Study of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Patients with Pharmacoresistant Major Depressive Disorder: Durability of Benefit Over a 1-Year Follow-Up Period. J Clin Psychiatry, 75(12):1394-1401. Journal page
- O’Reardon JP, et al. (2007). Efficacy and Safety of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Acute Treatment of Major Depression: A Multisite Randomized Controlled Trial. Biol Psychiatry, 62(11):1208-1216. PubMed 17573044
Add Safe Contact & Skills Practice with TTS
Families may benefit from practicing communication and regulation in supervised, child-first settings.
Therapeutic Supervised Visitation (TSV)
Discover moreabout Therapeutic Supervised Visitation (TSV)Clinician-guided public outings to reinforce coping skills.
Supervised Visitation & Safe Exchange
Discover moreabout Supervised Visitation & Safe ExchangeStart in neutral settings; progress to community visits as ready.
PCIT
Discover moreabout PCITFor ages 2–7, coach parents through public-place stressors (stores, parks, restaurants).
Reunification Services
Discover moreabout Reunification ServicesStructure community steps within a broader reunification plan.
Coordinate your group work with TTS visitation supports
Ready to take the next step?
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. A clinician will confirm whether TMS is appropriate for you.
Learn more
Read more about TMS, or find out how we can help:
- Who qualifies for TMS therapy in Las Vegas
- What to expect during your first TMS session
- How long does TMS therapy take?
- TMS therapy side effects and safety
- TMS vs antidepressants
- Treatment-resistant depression options in Las Vegas
- Depression treatment options in Las Vegas beyond medication
- Conditions we treat
- Frequently asked questions
- Locations we serve
- Insurance information