Don't let depression hold you back

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

At Advance Aotearoa, we offer innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

Discover the Key Benefits of TMS Therapy

Major depression affects all areas of life, leaving many unable to function despite trying various treatments. Traditional methods, which combine medication and therapy, can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially for those with treatment-resistant depression.

FDA-cleared since 2008, TMS works by using gentle magnetic pulses.

TMS Therapy is effective. 83% of patients who completed TMS therapy found relief from their depression.

62% of patients who completed TMS therapy went into remission, with full relief from their depression.

It's Non-invasive and non-systemic, No anesthesia or sedation needed

No adverse effects on memory

Easily tolerated: The most common side effect is mild scalp pain or discomfort

No change in daily activities

Work cooperatively with other treatments- e.g. you can continue work with your regular therapist/psychiatrist

It can save lives...

How does TMS work

TMS delivers magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive nerve cells in the parts of the brain that control mood.

During TMS treatment, an electromagnetic coil is placed on a patient’s scalp to deliver magnetic pulses to the parts of the brain that control mood.

This stimulates underactive nerve cells and strengthens the brain’s neural network.

Scientists believe this stimulation helps ease the symptoms of depression for sufferers and improves their overall mood.

Am I a Candidate for TMS?

Major Depressive Disorder: Not responding to medications or experiencing undesirable side effects.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Not responding to medications or experiencing undesirable side effects.
Chronic Pain: Conditions like fibromyalgia or neuropathic pain.
Tinnitus: Persistent ringing in the ears.
Other Conditions: ADHD and Eating Disorders, evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

What typically happens during a session?

TMS is a personalized treatment for each client. A doctor will evaluate whether this treatment is right for the client.
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If approved, the doctor will measure the patient's head to find the best spot for magnetic stimulation. We'll also check how the patient’s brain reacts to determine the right level of stimulation needed for their treatment.
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A trained nurse conducts the sessions. They place a cap on the patient’s head, mark the treatment area, and put an electromagnetic coil on that spot to deliver the stimulation.
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TMS is done in an outpatient clinic, and the patient remains awake during the process. They can talk to the nurse or listen to music. The patient will feel brief tapping sensations, mainly around the front of their head.
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Each session lasts between 3 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific treatment plan, and patients can go back to their normal activities right after.

How many TMS sessions are needed and how long do results last? Any side effect?

The number of TMS sessions needed varies by condition. For depression, evidence suggests 20-30mins daily sessions over 4 to 6 weeks, typically 5 per week. Accelerated TMS allows for multiple sessions daily, shortening treatment time. Many patients benefit for over a year, and if symptoms return, booster sessions can be done in a few days.

TMS is effective about 75% of the time, which means that it is twice as effective as antidepressant medications and almost as effective as electroconvulsive therapy.

Nearly half of those who respond to TMS feel better within the first few weeks of treatment.