FAQS
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS Treatment) is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It is FDA-approved for treating major depressive disorder and treatment-resistant depression, among others. The magnetic coil is placed near the head, and pulses are delivered in sessions, typically five times per week over several weeks (or in accelerated protocols, over fewer days). Many patients start to notice improvement in mood, sleep, or anxiety in 2-4 weeks. The practice at NeoPsych customizes settings based on individual brain mapping and patient response.
Accelerated TMS is a faster, more intensive form of TMS Treatment where many sessions are delivered over fewer days (for example, ONE-D protocol, M-SAINT 5-day protocol) to produce results sooner. It is ideal for people in Glendale, CA, and surrounding areas who need rapid relief or who may have difficulty committing to a long daily schedule. To be eligible, a patient must undergo an evaluation to ensure there are no contraindications (e.g,. metal implants in the head, certain seizure risks) and that standard depression or anxiety treatments have been tried. NeoPsych also considers insurance, medical history, and patient preference. Accelerated TMS is offered only when safe and appropriate, under close supervision.
The duration depends on which TMS Treatment protocol is chosen. Traditional TMS for Depression often runs 4–6 weeks, with daily sessions (Monday through Friday). Accelerated TMS programs can compress this into 1 to 10 day,s depending on the protocol (e.g., 5-day or ONE-D). TMS For Anxiety or TMS for PTSD may follow similar lengths, possibly extended to ensure stability of response. After the main course of TMS, NeoPsych often recommends follow-up or maintenance sessions to support long-term results.
Many insurance plans do cover TMS Treatment for depression and some other mental health conditions if they deem it “medically necessary” and after documentation of treatment resistance (i.e., failed antidepressant trials). NeoPsych assists patients in verifying insurance coverage and submitting claims. For services not covered fully, they offer transparent pricing and payment options. Patients are provided with cost estimates before starting treatment. Financing or payment plans may be available for those who need them.
Yes, TMS Treatments are generally safe when performed by trained professionals. The most common side effects include mild headaches, scalp discomfort, or tingling at the stimulation site, which usually resolve quickly after the session. Very rarely, there isa risk of seizure, especially in people with pre-existing conditions that lower seizure threshold. NeoPsych screens every patient carefully for contraindications, uses FDA-approved devices, and monitors during each session. Continuous support is available, and the practice ensures safety protocols are followed.
A consultation with NeoPsych helps determine whether TMS for Depression or TMS for Anxiety is appropriate. They assess your symptoms, medical history (including prior treatment attempts), mental health diagnosis (such as Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, PTSD), and any contraindications. If medications or therapy haven’t been fully effective, or side effects are hard to manage, TMS might be a good next step. Patient preference and tolerance for different treatment schedules are also considered. If TMS is not suitable, alternative treatments are discussed.
On the first visit, you’ll have a baseline assessment: psychiatric evaluation, possibly brain mapping or genetic testing, and explanation of what to expect. Each TMS session involves sitting in a comfortable chair, having a magnetic coil placed near the scalp, and receiving a series of pulses, typically lasting 20-40 minutes, depending on protocol. For accelerated protocols, there might be multiple shorter sessions per day. During the treatment, you can read, listen to music, or even use headphones; you remain awake and alert. The staff at NeoPsych monitors you throughout the session and provides aftercare instructions.
NeoPsych provides follow-up appointments to track progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. Support includes monitoring your symptoms, medication adjustments if applicable, and ensuring side effects are managed. Many patients also receive resources (therapy referrals, stress management techniques) to help maintain gains. Maintenance TMS sessions may be offered to prevent relapse. NeoPsych works with you throughout the post-treatment period to optimize long-term benefit.
Cost varies depending on the protocol (traditional vs accelerated), number of sessions, diagnosis (e.g. depression, anxiety, PTSD), and whether insurance applies. NeoPsych lists transparent pricing and works with patients to estimate out-of-pocket costs. Payment methods may include credit card, installment plans, or financing. For insured patients, NeoPsych helps verify coverage, file claims, and handle pre-authorization if needed. They also offer self-pay options for those without sufficient insurance or who prefer not to use it.
To begin, you contact NeoPsych via their website or phone to schedule a discovery call or consultation. During that appointment, the provider reviews your mental health history, prior treatments, and assesses whether you meet the criteria for TMS Treatment or Accelerated TMS. If accepted, you’ll go through a planning phase (mapping, explanation, scheduling). Once treatment starts, you’ll follow the agreed protocol, whether standard or accelerated. NeoPsych staff guide you every step of the way: what to expect, how to prepare, and how to adjust during treatment as needed.