5 Common TMS Myths—And Why They’re Holding People Back from Relief

When it comes to mental health treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has become a life-changing option for many. Yet despite the science, stories, and success rates, a cloud of misunderstanding still surrounds this safe, FDA-cleared therapy. Too often, myths about TMS keep people from pursuing it—people who could be feeling better, living better, and finding real relief.

At Goodwin Health Café, we believe education can be healing. And that starts with clearing up some common misconceptions. Whether you're exploring options for yourself or someone you care about, let’s set the record straight on TMS treatment.

Myth #1: “TMS Is Just Like Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)”

This is one of the most common—and most harmful—misconceptions. Many people hear “magnetic brain stimulation” and immediately think of ECT, a much older treatment that involves anesthesia and induced seizures. But here’s the truth: TMS is nothing like ECT.

TMS doesn’t use electricity, doesn’t require sedation, and doesn’t involve seizures. Instead, TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Patients are awake and alert during treatment, and sessions are typically completed in under 30 minutes. There’s no downtime, and side effects—if any—are minimal, often limited to mild scalp discomfort.

In short, TMS is a modern, non-invasive, and well-tolerated therapy. Comparing it to ECT is like comparing a smartphone to a rotary dial.

Myth #2: “TMS Is Painful”

The idea of something targeting your brain can sound intimidating, but TMS isn’t painful for most people. During your first session, you may feel a tapping or clicking sensation on your scalp where the magnetic pulses are delivered. It’s similar to someone gently tapping a pencil against your head—unusual, but not painful.

Some patients experience mild discomfort at the treatment site or a slight headache afterward, especially in the first few days. But these sensations typically fade as your body adjusts. Many people even find TMS sessions relaxing, especially as part of a supportive treatment plan designed to meet you where you are.

If anxiety around pain is keeping you from seeking help, know that TMS is designed with comfort in mind.

Myth #3: “TMS Is Experimental or Unproven”

TMS may sound new, but it’s far from experimental. In fact, TMS has been FDA-cleared since 2008 for treatment-resistant depression. Since then, it’s also been cleared for other conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and its use continues to expand as research grows.

More than 5 million TMS treatments have been delivered worldwide. It’s backed by dozens of peer-reviewed studies and widely used in clinics, hospitals, and mental health centers—including right here.

At Goodwin Health Café, we use TMS treatment patients trust—evidence-based, guided by expert clinicians, and tailored to your individual needs.

Myth #4: “TMS Only Works If Nothing Else Has”

It’s true that TMS was originally approved for patients with depression who hadn’t responded to traditional medications. But that doesn’t mean you have to wait until you’ve “tried everything” before considering it.

Today, more providers are using TMS earlier in the treatment process—especially for those who are sensitive to medications, struggling with side effects, or looking for a more targeted, drug-free option. You don’t need to be at rock bottom to qualify. You just need to be ready to feel better.

At Goodwin Health Café, we help you determine whether TMS makes sense based on your health history, symptoms, and goals—not just how many prescriptions you’ve tried.

Myth #5: “TMS Changes Your Personality”

Let’s bust this one clearly: TMS does not change who you are. It doesn’t implant thoughts, erase memories, or make you act like someone you’re not. TMS simply helps restore the brain’s natural ability to regulate mood and emotions.

For people living with depression, anxiety, or OCD, the changes can feel profound—not because TMS alters their personality, but because it helps lift the fog. Many patients say they feel “more like themselves” after treatment. They have more energy, improved sleep, greater focus, and a renewed sense of hope.

If you’re worried about TMS affecting your identity, know that the goal isn’t to change you—it’s to help you feel like you again.

Let’s Talk About What’s True: TMS treatment

TMS is:

• FDA-cleared and backed by science

• Non-invasive and medication-free

• Covered by many major insurance plans

• Available to adolescents and adults (depending on eligibility)

If you’ve been struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mood-related conditions, and you’re feeling stuck, TMS could be the breakthrough you need.

At Goodwin Health Café, we believe that understanding is the first step toward healing. That’s why we’re committed to making TMS treatment patients can rely on—accessible, approachable, and stigma-free.

Ready to Learn More?

Our team is here to answer your questions, walk you through what to expect, and help you feel empowered in your care decisions. Book a free consultation with us and take the first step toward real, lasting relief.