Benefits of TMS Therapy for Depression & More | Axis Integrated Mental Health

Is TMS Therapy Right for You? Explore the Benefits and Advantages of This Breakthrough 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, including to Medicaid patients.

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 6 weeks. Each session lasts about 15–30 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

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 Conditions Can TMS Help Treat Beyond Depression?

TMS is showing promise in treating a wide array of mental and neurological disorders:

• PTSD: Calms overactive fear processing circuits
• Autism: May improve emotional regulation and attention
• Chronic Pain: Reduces pain signaling through motor cortex stimulation
• Anxiety and OCD: Targets hyperactive prefrontal areas
• ADHD: Enhances focus through improved executive function
• Nicotine Addiction: Lowers cravings by modulating dopamine release

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.

Insurance Coverage & Accessibility

To qualify for TMS insurance coverage, most plans require:

• Diagnosis of MDD or OCD
• Two or more failed antidepressant trials
• Previous participation in therapy

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.  

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. What makes Axis Integrated Mental Health’s TMS program different?
Axis is the only clinic in Colorado offering a TMS scholarship program for patients with financial need. We combine TMS with therapy, lifestyle coaching, and personalized care plans. Our culturally responsive, trauma-informed approach makes TMS more accessible and effective for a diverse population.

4. Will insurance or Medicaid cover my TMS treatment?
Most commercial insurance plans cover TMS if you've tried at least two antidepressants and psychotherapy. Medicaid does not cover TMS in Colorado, but Axis offers a pro bono TMS scholarship for patients with demonstrated financial need. Our team will verify your benefits and walk you through every step.

5. 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.