Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

What is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation and emotional well-being.

TMS is proven to be effective for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), particularly when symptoms have not responded adequately to medication. It is also used to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and Tinnitus.

Unlike medication, TMS is not a chemical treatment and is generally associated with very few side effects.

  • Targets mood regulation areas
  • Non-invasive with minimal side effects
  • Proven effective for treatment-resistant conditions

Conditions We Treat

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Tinnitus

How TMS Works

TMS delivers magnetic pulses through a coil placed against the scalp, usually over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), an area involved in mood regulation.

The magnetic field penetrates approximately 1.5 cm into the cerebral cortex, stimulating brain cells and improving communication within important neural networks. Treatment is performed while you are awake and typically feels like a gentle tapping sensation on the scalp.

Most patients tolerate treatment well, with only mild and temporary side effects such as scalp discomfort or headache.

Your TMS Journey

Initial Consultation

A comprehensive assessment with one of our psychiatrists to determine whether TMS is right for you.

Personalised Treatment Plan

A tailored treatment program designed around your individual needs and treatment goals.

Acute Treatment Phase

  • 30 treatment sessions
  • Monday to Friday
  • Delivered over approximately 6 weeks
  • Sessions typically last 20-30 minutes

Many patients begin noticing improvements during treatment, with benefits often becoming clearer by around session 20.

Maintenance Treatment

Following the initial course, maintenance sessions may be recommended weekly, fortnightly or monthly to help maintain long-term results.

Who can have TMS?

TMS may be suitable for people who:

  • Have Major Depressive Disorder that has not adequately responded to treatment
  • Experience significant medication side effects
  • Prefer a non-medication treatment option
  • Continue to experience symptoms affecting daily life

Who Is Not Suitable?

TMS is generally not recommended for people with:

  • A history of epilepsy or seizures
  • Certain metal implants within the skull
  • Intracranial conductive metal devices, plates or shunts

Our clinical team will assess your individual circumstances to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate.

Is TMS Safe?

One of the key benefits of TMS is its excellent safety profile.

Possible side effects include mild scalp discomfort, temporary headache, and mild tiredness.

These symptoms are usually short-lived and often improve as treatment progresses.

Importantly, TMS does not commonly cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, memory loss, sedation or gastrointestinal side effects.

Take the Next Step

If Major Depressive Disorder, anxiety, PTSD or tinnitus continues to affect your quality of life despite previous treatment, TMS may offer a safe and effective alternative.

Contact our team today to arrange an assessment and find out whether TMS is right for you.