Living with depression or anxiety can feel overwhelming, especially when traditional treatments like medication and talk therapy don’t seem to help. For those seeking a new path to recovery, Portland’s Active Path offers a groundbreaking solution: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy. Let’s explore how this innovative treatment is transforming lives in our community and why it could be the right choice for you or a loved one.
Don’t let depression or anxiety define your life—discover the transformative power of Portland TMS therapy with an appointment at Active Path. Call 503.719.4648 or book online today.
What is TMS Therapy?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared, noninvasive procedure that uses a magnetic field to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. These pulses target areas associated with mood regulation, like the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, helping to restore normal brain activity in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other mental health conditions.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy, which can require anesthesia and cause significant side effects, TMS therapy is a noninvasive procedure with generally mild side effects. The magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic coil is about 1.5 Tesla, similar to that used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ensuring its safety and efficacy.
TMS is particularly effective for those diagnosed with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or other conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxious depression.
How TMS Therapy Works
TMS works by targeting specific areas of the brain that are underactive in individuals with depression symptoms or other conditions. During TMS sessions, a magnetic coil is placed gently on the scalp, delivering magnetic energy that stimulates brain cells and modifies brain activity patterns. This process called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), is repeated over several weeks to achieve optimal results.
Patients remain awake during treatment sessions, which are painless and conducted in a comfortable chair. Each session lasts about 3-20 minutes, and individuals resume normal daily activities immediately afterward.
Benefits of TMS Therapy
Active Path’s TMS therapy program is at least twice as effective as standard treatments for depression when traditional methods have failed. Key benefits include:
- Targeted Treatment: TMS focuses magnetic pulses directly on brain regions linked to depression, targeting symptoms more precisely than medications.
- Personalized Approach: Settings can be adjusted to optimize results based on individual responses.
- Expanded Reach: TMS has shown effectiveness in treating OCD and anxious depression. Other indications such as generalized anxiety disorder can be treated off-label.
- Non-Invasive and Drug-Free: TMS avoids systemic side effects like weight gain or fatigue, making it appealing to many.
Who Can Benefit From TMS?
TMS treatment is designed for patients 15 and older with treatment-resistant depression. It may also benefit adults (18 and older) with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or anxious depression. However, TMS therapy isn’t suitable for everyone. Patients with a history of seizures, metal implants, or cochlear implants should discuss these factors with a healthcare provider to determine eligibility.
The TMS Therapy Process
Before Your First Appointment
The journey begins with a thorough evaluation by a trained TMS specialist. At Active Path, we take the time to understand your medical history, treatment experience, and goals to ensure TMS is the right fit for you.
During Each Treatment Session
TMS sessions are conducted in a comfortable outpatient setting:
- A magnetic coil is placed on your head, targeting areas involved in mood regulation.
- Earplugs are provided to minimize the sound of the magnetic pulses.
- You’ll remain seated while the machine delivers pulses in a specific pattern.
The procedure is painless, and most patients acclimate to the tapping sensation within a few sessions.
After Each Treatment Session
One of the biggest advantages of TMS is minimal downtime. After your session, you can return to daily activities immediately. Mild side effects like headaches or lightheadedness typically resolve quickly.
Safety and Side Effects
TMS therapy is considered a safe and well-tolerated treatment. Common side effects include mild headaches, scalp discomfort, and fatigue, which usually subside after a few sessions. Serious side effects, such as seizures, are rare but should be discussed with your provider. You will be screened for this increased risk at your evaluation prior to treatment.
At Active Path, patient safety is our top priority. Our team will monitor your progress closely to maximize benefits to improve your outcome.
Finding a TMS Provider in Portland
Choosing the right TMS provider is crucial. At Active Path, our experienced and compassionate team is dedicated to helping patients achieve lasting relief from depression and anxiety. We encourage you to explore our reviews and hear directly from patients who have transformed their lives with TMS therapy.
If you’re struggling with treating depression or anxiety and feel like you’ve exhausted your options, TMS therapy at Active Path could be the solution you’ve been searching for. This innovative, safe, and effective treatment is helping Portland residents reclaim their lives and embrace a brighter future.
Take the first step today. Reach out to Active Path to schedule a consultation and discover how TMS therapy can make a difference for you or someone you love. Relief is possible—and it starts here.
Take the first step toward relief – Contact our team at Active Path or call 503.719.4648 for a no-obligation consultation on your treatment options.
