Explore the benefits of Deep TMS therapy for depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Discover how this FDA-approved, drug-free treatment works and how Axis Integrated Mental Health can help you get clarity on how much it costs before your first visit.
What are the Benefits and Advantages of Deep TMS Treatment?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is transforming the landscape of mental health care, especially for individuals struggling with treatment-resistant depression. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the key advantages and benefits of TMS therapy, how it works, who qualifies, and why Axis Integrated Mental Health stands apart in offering this innovative treatment.
What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?
TMS is an FDA-approved, non-invasive procedure that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. Unlike medications or ECT, TMS requires no sedation, has minimal side effects, and works by promoting neuroplasticity—your brain’s ability to rewire itself for healing.
A typical course of TMS involves daily sessions, 5 days a week, for 4 weeks followed by 4-8 weeks of twice a week sessions. Each session lasts about 20 minutes, during which a coil placed on your scalp delivers targeted stimulation to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC).
Get our Guide to TMS to learn more.
TMS vs. Deep TMS: What’s the Difference?
While both TMS and Deep TMS (dTMS) are FDA-approved for depression, they differ in depth, coil design, and patient experience.
Standard TMS
- Uses a figure-8 coil to target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) at a shallow depth.
- Ideal for focused stimulation and fine-tuned targeting.
- Backed by extensive research and clinical use.
- Typically less noisy and more comfortable for patients.
Deep TMS (dTMS)
- Uses an H-coil that reaches deeper brain regions, including medial and subcortical structures.
- May be helpful for conditions like OCD or treatment-resistant depression in some cases.
- Sessions can feel louder and more intense, and not all patients tolerate it as well.
- Fewer clinics offer it, and research is more limited compared to standard TMS.
At Axis, we currently offer both Deep TMS and standard TMS. Read more about the difference between Deep TMS and TMS on our blog.
Who Is a Good Candidate for TMS?
TMS is ideal for individuals with:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- A history of trying 2–4 antidepressant medications without sufficient relief
- Prior experience with psychotherapy
- Intolerance to medication side effects
It is especially beneficial for those seeking an alternative to long-term pharmaceutical treatment.
Why Patients Choose TMS Over Traditional Treatments
Medications can take weeks to show effects and often come with side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or emotional blunting. Talk therapy, while valuable, may be too slow or inaccessible.
TMS stands out because it:
- Does not involve daily pill-taking
- Is non-invasive and drug-free
- Has fewer systemic side effects
- Targets the brain regions most involved in depression
What Are 7 Proven Benefits of TMS Therapy
1. Non-Invasive and Gentle
No surgery. No anesthesia. You can drive yourself home after each session.
2. Targeted Treatment
Custom-tailored stimulation for your brain, especially the DLPFC involved in depression.
3. Minimal Side Effects
Most patients report only minor scalp tingling or a brief headache that resolves within hours.
4. Quick, Convenient Sessions
Standard treatment takes 15–30 minutes, 5 days a week, and fits into most work schedules.
5. Long-Lasting Relief
After completing a full course, many patients enjoy sustained symptom relief for 6 months to a year.
6. Customized Care Plans
At Axis, TMS is integrated into broader wellness plans, including therapy, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies.
7. Affordability and Insurance Access
Most commercial insurers cover TMS after failed trials of antidepressants. Axis uniquely offers Colorado’s only scholarship program for TMS, ensuring cost is not a barrier to care.
What are Disadvantages of TMS Therapy
While TMS has many benefits, here are potential drawbacks to consider:
Time Commitment
Daily visits for 6 weeks may be challenging. However, Colorado’s FAMLI program allows up to 90% wage coverage for medical leave. Complete our online quiz to see if you qualify.
Mild Headaches
Some patients report minor discomfort or headaches after sessions, especially early on.
Variable Effectiveness
While many patients see remarkable improvement, TMS may not work for everyone. Your Axis team will help assess your progress and adjust treatment accordingly.
What Does Insurance Cover for Deep TMS Treatment?
To qualify for TMS insurance coverage, most plans require:
Most patients with insurance pay only a small copay per session. Axis offers Colorado’s only scholarship for people with demonstrated financial need TMS. Our care coordinators will help you understand your options. Please note that the scholarship program requires that patients have been with Axis for a minimum of 3 months and demonstrates behavioral appropriateness for TMS before they can be considered for the program.
Deep TMS Cost Calculator
Estimate your out-of-pocket cost in under 60 seconds
This is a general estimate only. Your actual cost may differ. Axis verifies your exact benefits before treatment begins. No insurance data is stored.
Important: This is an estimate only, not a guarantee or full benefits investigation. Actual costs depend on your specific plan and claim processing. You are not required or encouraged to book services with Axis based upon this calculator. The calculator is provided as a certain mental and behavioral health concerns.
What to Expect at Your First TMS Consultation
At Axis Integrated Mental Health, your first visit includes:
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Treatment planning with a collaborative team
- Insurance verification and benefit review
- Introduction to your dedicated TMS technician
Our team will guide you every step of the way, with compassionate care tailored to your goals.
Ready to Explore TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy offers real hope for those who have struggled with depression and other mental health conditions. With its gentle nature, proven effectiveness, and accessibility through insurance and our pro bono scholarship for those with financial need, TMS could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Schedule your TMS consultation with Axis Integrated Mental Health today by calling us at 720-400-7025 or book an evaluation online.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to see results from TMS therapy?
Some patients begin to notice mood improvement after 2–3 weeks of treatment, while others may take 4–6 weeks to feel a significant difference. TMS works gradually by building new neural connections in the brain, so consistency is key for long-lasting results.
2. Is TMS therapy safe for people with anxiety, ADHD, or PTSD?
Yes. TMS is being increasingly used off-label to treat anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and even chronic pain and addiction. By targeting specific brain regions involved in emotional regulation and executive function, TMS can support symptom relief beyond depression.
3. Can I get a cost estimate before I book an appointment for Deep TMS?
Yes, we encourage you to use our free TMS cost calculator or book a financial consult to get a rough estimate of Deep TMS treatment before you book your first appointment with a provider.
4. Can TMS be combined with medications or other treatments like Spravato?
Yes. TMS is often used alongside antidepressants, Spravato, or therapy. Combining treatments can enhance results, especially in complex or treatment-resistant cases. At Axis, we create integrated treatment plans based on what works best for your brain and goals.
5. How can I find the time to do TMS therapy?
TMS therapy actually takes less time than Spravato treatment (which requires 32 hours in the first month along with downtime for the rest of the day after treatment) compared to the roughly 8 hours it takes of actual treatment time in the first month of treatment. Moreover, because there is no downtime, it is generally less disruptive. Moreover, people can start feeling better sooner than they would with a normal start of an antidepressant, which can take up to 6 weeks for the full effect. However, coordination can be challenging, especially if you’re struggling with depression with work schedules, child care, and other activities. Patients can talk to their provider about paid FAMLI mental health leave, which can be part-time, full-time or intermittent depending on the schedule requested.
