Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can profoundly affect every aspect of a person’s life, interfering with relationships, work, and emotional well-being. While traditional treatments such as psychotherapy and medications are effective for many, a significant number of individuals continue to struggle with symptoms despite these interventions.
Today, innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offer new hope. Under the care of Dr. Thomas Hughes, patients in Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank are finding meaningful relief through TMS therapy. Combining advanced technology, personalized care, and accessible options, Dr. Hughes and his team are proud to accept insurance and make breakthrough PTSD care more widely available.
Understanding PTSD and Brain Function
PTSD develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat exposure, physical assault, serious accidents, or natural disasters. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, nightmares, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, and mood disturbances.
Neuroscientific research has shown that PTSD involves dysfunction in specific brain regions, particularly:
- The amygdala (responsible for fear and emotional memory)
- The hippocampus (involved in memory processing)
- The prefrontal cortex (critical for executive function and emotional regulation)
Dysregulated communication between these areas can perpetuate the heightened fear responses and emotional dysregulation seen in PTSD.
What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?
TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared therapy that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood regulation and cognitive processing.
During TMS therapy:
- A specialized coil is placed near the scalp.
- Magnetic pulses are delivered to target brain regions.
- Over repeated sessions, TMS promotes neuroplasticity and healthier brain network communication.
TMS does not require anesthesia, sedation, or downtime. Patients remain fully awake during treatment sessions, which typically last around 20 to 30 minutes.
How TMS Helps Treat PTSD
TMS therapy aims to restore healthier functioning to the brain circuits involved in fear responses, emotional regulation, and cognitive control. By targeting the prefrontal cortex and connected limbic structures, TMS can help:
- Reduce hyperarousal and hypervigilance
- Decrease the intensity and frequency of intrusive memories and flashbacks
- Improve emotional resilience and mood stability
- Support cognitive flexibility and executive function
Research studies demonstrate that TMS can significantly alleviate PTSD symptoms, even in individuals who have not responded adequately to medications or psychotherapy alone.
Who Is a Good Candidate for TMS for PTSD?
TMS therapy may be appropriate for individuals who:
- Have been diagnosed with PTSD by a licensed clinician
- Have experienced limited success with medications or psychotherapy
- Prefer a non-pharmacological treatment option
- Are in good general health with no contraindications for magnetic stimulation
An initial consultation with Dr. Hughes includes a thorough assessment to determine if TMS is the right fit for your needs and goals.
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
At Dr. Hughes’ practice serving Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank:
- The first session involves careful mapping to identify the optimal treatment area.
- Daily sessions are typically scheduled five days per week for four to six weeks.
- Patients sit comfortably while the magnetic pulses are delivered.
- There is no recovery time; patients can resume normal activities immediately after each session.
Most patients describe the sensation as a gentle tapping or tingling on the scalp during the session, with minimal side effects.
Insurance Coverage for TMS Therapy
Dr. Thomas Hughes and his team are committed to making advanced mental health care accessible. Most major insurance providers are accepted for TMS therapy, and insurance verification assistance is provided during the consultation process.
Coverage varies based on the individual’s plan, diagnosis, and prior treatment history. Our administrative team works closely with patients to:
- Verify eligibility for TMS coverage
- Submit prior authorization requests when necessary
- Coordinate benefits and minimize out-of-pocket expenses
Accessible care is a core part of our mission in helping patients achieve healing.
Why Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank Patients Choose Dr. Thomas Hughes
Dr. Thomas Hughes is recognized for his commitment to clinical excellence, personalized treatment, and compassionate care. With extensive experience in brain-based therapies, Dr. Hughes integrates the latest scientific advancements with a holistic approach to patient wellness.
Patients choose Dr. Hughes for:
- Expert delivery of TMS for complex conditions like PTSD
- Personalized treatment protocols based on individual needs
- Acceptance of insurance to improve accessibility
- Convenient location serving Los Angeles, Glendale, and Burbank communities
- A supportive team environment focused on patient empowerment and recovery
Dr. Hughes understands that healing from trauma requires more than symptom management — it requires rebuilding resilience, restoring hope, and fostering true recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is TMS therapy safe for PTSD?
Yes. TMS is considered safe and well-tolerated when administered by trained clinicians. Common side effects are mild and may include scalp discomfort or headache, typically resolving shortly after treatment sessions.
How soon will I see results with TMS for PTSD?
Some patients begin noticing symptom improvements within the first few weeks of treatment. However, full therapeutic effects often develop gradually over the course of the full treatment series.
Can TMS replace medication for PTSD?
For some individuals, TMS may reduce or eliminate the need for medications. However, decisions about medication adjustments should always be made collaboratively with your provider based on clinical response.
How do I know if my insurance will cover TMS therapy?
Our team will assist you with insurance verification and authorization before starting treatment. Many insurance plans now recognize TMS as a medically necessary treatment for conditions such as PTSD, depression, and OCD.
Begin Your Healing Journey with TMS
Living with PTSD does not have to mean living without hope. At Dr. Thomas Hughes’ practice in Los Angeles, patients from Glendale, Burbank, and surrounding areas have access to advanced, compassionate care that supports true recovery.
With TMS therapy, insurance acceptance, and expert clinical guidance, you can take the first step toward a future of resilience and emotional well-being.
