Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy

NeuroStar TMS Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for depression and anxiety that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain and support mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS doesn’t require sedation or surgery, and many people can return to their day immediately after a session, often finding relief when medication alone hasn’t been enough.

TMS has helped many adults find relief when traditional treatments like medication or therapy haven’t been enough. It can be a valuable part of your mental health journey — especially if you’ve felt stuck or haven’t experiences the improvements you were hoping for.

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How NeuroStar TMS Therapy Works

NeuroStar TMS Therapy is performed in our Fitchburg office while you remain awake and alert. A comfortable magnetic coil is placed near your scalp, delivering gentle, targeted pulses to areas of the brain involved in mood and emotional regulation. Most people find the sensation tolerable, and no anesthesia or downtime is required.

Treatment typically lasts 20–40 minutes per session, with a personalized plan tailored to your needs. Many individuals attend sessions several times a week over a course of weeks, and improvements often emerge gradually as therapy progresses.

Why NeuroStar TMS?

  • Precision & Safety: NeuroStar TMS targets specific brain regions associated with mood regulation.

  • Non-Invasive & Outpatient: No anesthesia or downtime, just sessions at our Fitchburg office.

    Effective Results: NeuroStar has helped thousands of adults with depression achieve meaningful improvement.

Step 1: Initial Consultation

We begin by reviewing your medical history, current symptoms, and past treatments to determine if TMS is the right fit for you.
  • 60 minutes
  • In-person or via telehealth
Goal: Create a clear plan tailored to your needs

Step 2: Insurance Approval

We help navigate your insurance coverage. We accept:
  • Aetna
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield of MA
  • Cigna
  • Harvard Pilgrim
  • Optum / Evernorth
  • Tufts
  • United Healthcare
Approval usually takes 1–2 weeks. We handle the paperwork so you can focus on your care.

Step 3: Mapping Session (First Treatment)

During this session, we gently locate the exact area of your brain to target and establish your personalized TMS settings.
  • 60 minutes
  • Comfortable, non-invasive, fully awake
Goal: Ensure precise, effective treatment

Step 4: Regular TMS Session

You’ll attend treatments 4–5 days per week over 6–9 weeks. Each session lasts 20–40 minutes.
  • You remain fully awake and comfortable
  • You may read, use your phone, or watch TV during treatment
  • No recovery period — you can drive yourself home and return to daily activities

Step 5: Monitoring & Support

We regularly check in on your mood, sleep, and overall well-being, adjusting your treatment plan as needed.
  • Emotional and clinical support throughout treatment
Goal: Create a clear plan tailored to your needs

Step 6: Completion & Aftercare

After 6-9 weeks, we evaluate your progress and discuss next steps.
  • Some patients benefit from maintenance sessions (weekly or monthly)You remain fully awake and comfortable
  • We create a long-term plan to support lasting wellness

  • Most patients report improvement in their symptoms within the first 1-2 weeks. 

  • Side effects are rare and typically mild.

    • The most common side effect- Scalp discomfort:  mild tingling, throbbing, or burning sensation at or near the treatment site. This usually resolves within the first week of treatment

    • Headaches: Headaches can occur during or after treatment, but they are usually mild and resolve quickly.

    • Lightheadedness: Some patients may experience a feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness during treatment.

    • Temporary changes in sleep: Sleep patterns may be affected temporarily during treatment.

    • Muscle twitching: Mild muscle twitching may occur at the treatment site.

    • Seizures are a rare but possible side effect of TMS

  • Yes! You can usually continue taking any prescribed medications during treatment. We will review all mediations (prescribed and over the counter) prior to treatment.

  • Most patients report a gentle tapping sensation during NeuroStar TMS treatment, typically felt under the electromagnetic coil on the scalp. This sensation arises from the magnetic field stimulating the muscles and nerves in the brain. 

    • Our patients report treatment is comfortable, we encourage you to use your phone, watch TV, or read a book while you’re receiving treatment.

FAQs

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If depression has been weighing on you and traditional treatments haven’t provided enough relief, TMS may offer a new path forward. You deserve care that feels personalized, thoughtful, and grounded in real results.

We’ll walk you through every step — from consultation and insurance review to treatment and follow-up support — so you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your decision.

Schedule Your TMS Consultation Today

Let’s explore whether TMS is the right fit for you and create a plan focused on restoring energy, balance, and lasting well-being.