FAQ'S

Transcranial magnetic stimulation, called TMS therapy, was FDA-approved in 2008 and is the most advanced form of treatment for depression. TMS uses a pulsating magnatic coil to stimulate parts of the brain believed to be responsible for depression.

A depressed brain is hypoactive in certain areas, specifically the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (LDLPC). The pusating magnetic coil used in TMS stimulates the LDLPC. This stimulates the neurons in this area of the brain, and after repeated stimulation the hypoactive neurons begin to "wake up". As the LDLPC begins to function optimally, the commnication wth other parts of the brain are restored and the patients' symptoms begin to fade. This novel mechanism of action is referred to as neuroplasticity.

Nearly all major insurance plans cover TMS therapy for the treatment of adult patients with treatment resistant depression. Most (not all) insurance plans require a prior authorization. However all have their own set of guidelines that must be met in order to bill the insurance for treatment. For instance, the patient must have a diagnosis of severe depression, identified by the severity of symptoms, as well as two to four antidepressant medication trials, and a history of psychotherapy prior to TMS therapy. 

We conduct  thorough assessment based upon the individual needs of our clients, determine their preferences and goals for treatment, and develop a treatment plan that is patient-centered and patient-focused.

We take a holistic approach when providing our clients with the services that they need. Having this kind of approach could entail various forms of treatment will be given to them based on their needs.

Depression is a serious illness of the brain just as diabetes is an illness that involves the endorcrine system. Left untreated, depression can have serious implicationa on both your overall mental and physical health. While there is no 'cure' for depression, it is very treatable and symptoms can be minimized with medications and psychotherapy. For more severe types of depression, TMS therapy can treat depression at it's source and offers long-term remission for many patients. 

Depending on your conditions, a combination of multiple treatment modalities offers a much greter opportunity for healing and symptoms relief (i.e., medication management in combination with cognitive behavior therapy). It is vital that you speak to the doctor if you feel your medications are not working or if you experience side effects from your medications. While most psychiatric medications don't begin to have a maximum effect for 4-6 weeks, an increase in dosage and even a medication change may be necessary. 

For those suffering from severe depression despite takigng medication, TMS should be considered - as this is the most effective treatment for those suffering from severe depressive symptoms when medications have proven ineffective. 

While having someone close to you that you can confide in is necessary and important, a therpist or counselor is specifically trained and licensed in very specific therapeutic techniques to assist a person recover. There are a variety of techniques that therapists and counselors are trained in to address a patient's behavior and thought processes.

Therapists have the training and education to understand and assess a client’s situation. Their ability to avoid countertransference on their clients’ stories and problems enables them to remain objective. 

Our telepsychiatry program is specifically designed to assist patients who live longer distances or without transportation, and who do not have access to the best doctors and therapist in their geographic area. This program allows you access to the very best psychiatric care from the convenience of your own home. To learn more about this program, you can contact us at 770-694-6349.