Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is now offered at Pacific Clinics’ South Pasadena location. TMS is a noninvasive treatment that sends a series of short magnetic pulses (similar to an MRI) to target areas of the brain. These magnetic pulses can change brain patterns that can reduce symptoms of depression. This not-so-new procedure has been around for a little more than 20 years, and we’re excited to offer another treatment option to our community.
For individuals taking psychiatric medication for their depression or anxiety and have not experienced the desired results, TMS is one recommended treatment. Once clients or patients are deemed appropriate candidates for TMS, they are required to come into the clinic for about five minutes, five days a week for six weeks. During their treatment, clients will wear a cap, and there will be a pad placed on their left forehead that will send pulsing signals into the brain. Clients and patients may feel a tapping sensation and hear clicking (for which they will wear ear plugs).
“TMS is a very successful and proven treatment,” says Thaddeus Juarez, MD, medical director, Los Angeles/South Coast Regions. “I encourage clients and patients who have not seen success with their medication and psychotherapy to try TMS.”
TMS is Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved to treat major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar depression, anxiety associated with depression.
The Process
You can speak to your mental health therapist about being referred for TMS treatment if you’re a current Pacific Clinics client or patient. Someone from the TMS team will be in contact with you.
For more information on TMS and to learn if you’re a good candidate, please contact us at 626-441-4221.
