M-SAINT Protocol: 5-Day Accelerated TMS for Treatment-Resistant Depression
NeoPsych in Glendale, California, offers the M-SAINT Protocol, a groundbreaking 5-day accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment designed for individuals living with treatment-resistant depression. This advanced neuromodulation approach delivers the equivalent of six weeks of standard TMS therapy condensed into just five consecutive days, helping patients achieve rapid and durable improvements in mood and function.
What is the M-SAINT Protocol?
The M-SAINT Protocol, short for modified Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy, is an intensive TMS regimen that provides ten daily sessions of intermittent theta burst stimulation, or iTBS, over a five-day period. Developed through cutting-edge research, this high-dose protocol is designed to induce rapid neuroplastic changes in brain regions responsible for mood regulation. The protocol includes carefully spaced 50-minute intervals between sessions, maximizing the brain’s capacity to consolidate therapeutic effects and promoting faster symptom relief compared to standard TMS.
Learn more about how Accelerated TMS works at NeoPsych
The Science Behind It: SAINT and Beyond
The M-SAINT protocol is modeled after the landmark SAINT trial at Stanford University, which showed remarkable rates of remission up to 79% in patients with severe, treatment-resistant depression. M-SAINT builds upon this foundation with optimizations in session timing, patient flow, and neurostimulation dosing to create a patient-centric experience that maximizes both safety and effectiveness.
- iTBS (intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation): A highly efficient form of TMS proven to activate key regions in the brain responsible for mood regulation.
- Accelerated delivery: Intensive session frequency condenses therapeutic effects into a much shorter timeframe.
- Personalized targeting: Functional mapping and individualized coil positioning ensure stimulation is delivered precisely where it’s needed most.
Other Protocol Options:
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Who is a Candidate for the M-SAINT Protocol?
The M-SAINT Protocol is intended for adult patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder who have not responded to multiple antidepressant trials or psychotherapy. It is particularly well-suited for patients in Glendale, Burbank, and Los Angeles County who:
- Require rapid improvement due to severe or chronic depression
- Have limited time to commit to traditional multiweek TMS schedules
- Have previously benefited from TMS and are seeking a more intensive treatment approach
- Are motivated to pursue an evidence-based, non-invasive alternative to electroconvulsive therapy or ketamine
This protocol is particularly well-suited for patients unable to commit to standard 6–8 week TMS schedules and those seeking a non-medication-based alternative with rapid, sustainable outcomes. Clinical trials show that the M-SAINT Protocol offers some of the highest response and remission rates reported in depression treatment studies. Patients typically experience substantial symptom reduction within days, with sustained benefits observed over weeks and months.
At NeoPsych, all treatments are supervised by Dr. Thomas Hughes to ensure the highest standards of patient safety and comfort. Common side effects include mild headaches or scalp tenderness, which usually resolve quickly and can be managed with over-the-counter medications.
What to Expect During the 5-Day Schedule
Each day typically includes:
- 10 brief iTBS sessions spaced throughout the day (morning through late afternoon)
- Time to relax or rest between sessions
- Daily symptom monitoring and support from the clinical team
Most patients experience noticeable improvements within weeks following treatment, with neuroplastic changes continuing to evolve long after the protocol ends.
Why Choose NeoPsych for Accelerated TMS
NeoPsych is a trusted destination for advanced mental health care in Southern California, offering:
- Access to the M-SAINT Protocol and other cutting-edge TMS treatments
- Expert psychiatric leadership under Dr. Thomas Hughes
- Individualized care tailored to each patient’s clinical needs
- Comprehensive support for local, out-of-town, and international patients
Patients from Glendale, Burbank, Los Angeles, Pasadena, Beverly Hills, and across Los Angeles County choose NeoPsych for advanced, science-backed depression treatment.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re facing treatment-resistant depression and need rapid, effective relief, the 5-Day M-SAINT Protocol may be the right fit. This groundbreaking approach delivers the benefits of over six weeks of TMS in just five days, helping you reclaim stability and well-being faster than ever before. Book your consultation today to find out if you’re a candidate for M-SAINT at NeoPsych.