What Is the Duration of TMS Treatment, and How Many Sessions Are Typically Needed for Depression?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s primarily used to treat depression in individuals who have not found relief through medication or therapy alone. One of the most common questions we receive at Thunder Pain and Wellness is: How long does TMS treatment take, and how many sessions are needed to see results?
 

What is TMS?

TMS is drug-free treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation - particularly the prefrontal cortex. By activating underactive neural pathways, TMS helps restore healthier brain activity, often leading to a significant reduction in depressive symptoms over time. The treatment is performed in-office, requires no anesthesia, and allows patients to return to their daily activities immediately after each session.
 

What to Expect During Treatment

At Thunder Pain and Wellness, we emphasize personalized care because no two patients are alike. Some individuals begin to feel better after just a couple of weeks of treatment, while others may require a longer course to experience noticeable changes. Factors like the severity of your symptoms, overall health, and how your brain responds to stimulation all play a role in determining the right number of sessions for you.
 

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

Most patients start with a foundational plan that includes:

• 30 daily sessions over the course of 6 weeks (typically 5 sessions per week for 6 weeks)
   

After this initial phase, we often recommend a series of maintenance sessions to help reinforce and sustain your results. The maintenance schedule may be adjusted depending on your progress, but commonly includes:

• For depression: 6 sessions over 3 weeks (3 sessions the first week, 2 the second, and 1 the third)
   

These protocols are based on clinical evidence and our own experience, but can be adapted to your individual needs.
 

Benefits of TMS for Depression

The benefits of TMS for depression are both clinically proven and life-changing for many patients. TMS is non-invasive and free from the systemic side effects commonly associated with antidepressant medications, such as weight gain, fatigue, or sexual dysfunction. It allows individuals to maintain their normal routines, as sessions are quick and require no recovery time. 
 

Most importantly, TMS offers hope for those with treatment-resistant depression, providing a safe and effective option when other approaches have failed. Many patients experience lasting improvements in mood, energy, and overall quality of life following a full course of treatment.
 

Ready to Explore if TMS is Right for You?

TMS is a promising and effective treatment for depression and chronic pain, especially for those who haven’t found relief through traditional methods. With a personalized approach and consistent support, TMS can help you take meaningful steps toward long-term relief and improved well-being.
 

If you’re battling with symptoms of depression, contact Thunder Pain and Wellness to schedule a consultation and determine if TMS is right for you. Visit our office in Reno, Nevada, or call (775) 254-7400 to book an appointment today.