Reimagining Mental Health Care: The Growing Role of TMS for Mood Disorders

At Goodwin Health Café, we believe in combining compassionate care with cutting-edge solutions. One of the most promising tools in modern mental health treatment is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)—a non-invasive therapy that’s quietly revolutionizing how we approach mental health and mood disorders.

TMS isn’t just a buzzword—it’s backed by years of research and continues to evolve as a powerful option for those who haven’t found relief through traditional treatments. Let’s explore why more providers—and patients—are turning to TMS and how we integrate it into our holistic care model.

What is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation works by delivering magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain that are often underactive in people with depression and other mood disorders. The treatment involves placing a magnetic coil on the scalp, which stimulates neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, helping to “reset” brain circuits associated with mood regulation.

Unlike medications, TMS doesn’t require systemic absorption, and unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it doesn’t require anesthesia or result in cognitive side effects. Patients can drive themselves home after each session, making it a convenient outpatient procedure.

Clinically Proven Results: TMS for Mood Disorders

TMS was first approved by the FDA in 2008 for treatment-resistant depression, and since then, its credibility has grown significantly. Studies show that 60% of patients experience a significant reduction in depressive symptoms, and around one-third may achieve full remission. For individuals who have tried multiple medications or therapies without success, these results offer renewed hope.

Expanding Beyond Depression

Recent research suggests TMS is beneficial beyond major depressive disorder. For example:

• Bipolar Depression: Studies show moderate-to-large improvements in depressive symptoms in individuals with bipolar I and II, with a growing body of evidence supporting its use when standard treatments fall short.

• Anxiety and PTSD: A number of clinical trials demonstrate that TMS can help reduce symptoms of anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, by calming overactive regions of the brain.

• OCD: TMS received FDA clearance for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, offering new options for patients struggling with persistent, intrusive thoughts.

Researchers are also exploring TMS for other conditions, including chronic pain, substance use disorders, and even cognitive decline—further expanding its therapeutic potential.

Is TMS Safe?

TMS is generally well-tolerated, with few side effects. Most commonly, patients experience mild scalp discomfort or headache during or after sessions, which typically fade as the body adjusts. Unlike medications, TMS does not cause weight gain, sexual side effects, or fatigue. Serious side effects, such as seizures, are extremely rare and usually occur only in individuals with preexisting risk factors.

Is TMS Right for You?

TMS is not a one-size-fits-all treatment, but it can be life-changing for individuals who haven’t found success with traditional approaches. If you’ve tried multiple antidepressants without lasting improvement, or if you’re seeking a non-medication-based therapy, TMS may be worth exploring.

Many insurance providers now cover TMS for treatment-resistant depression, and coverage for additional conditions is expanding.