Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We understand that you may have many questions about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Neurofeedback. Below, we've compiled answers to common inquiries to help you better understand these innovative approaches to brain health.
If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us directly.
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TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in specific areas of the brain, aiming to improve symptoms of certain neurological and mental health conditions. Neurofeedback is a non-invasive brain training technique that helps you learn to self-regulate your brainwave activity through real-time feedback, promoting healthier brain function and emotional balance.
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Yes, both TMS and Neurofeedback are considered safe, non-invasive procedures. TMS is FDA-approved for specific conditions, and Neurofeedback has a long history of safe use. Both treatments are well-tolerated by most individuals, with minimal and generally mild potential side effects.
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The duration of benefits can vary for each individual and depends on the condition being addressed. For TMS, many individuals experience sustained improvements for several months or longer following a full course of treatment. For Neurofeedback, the learned self-regulation skills are often long-lasting, as your brain learns to maintain new, healthier patterns. Our team will discuss realistic expectations with you based on your specific needs.
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Only TMS is covered by insurance and depends on your plan.
NF and brain mapping are not covered by insurance.
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The first step is to schedule a consultation with our team. During this initial visit, we will discuss your medical history, current concerns, and goals. This allows us to determine if TMS or Neurofeedback, or a combination, is a suitable option for you and to create a personalized treatment plan.
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TMS is FDA-approved to help manage symptoms of:
Major Depressive Disorder (particularly when other treatments haven't been effective)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Migraine Headaches
Smoking Cessation
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A typical TMS session lasts between 20 to 50 minutes, depending on the specific protocol tailored to your needs. A standard course of treatment usually involves daily sessions, five days a week, for approximately four to six weeks. Your exact treatment schedule will be personalized by our clinical team.
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The most common side effects are mild to moderate scalp discomfort or headache at the treatment site, particularly during the first week of treatment. These side effects are usually temporary and diminish over time. Serious side effects are rare. Our team will discuss all potential side effects and safety considerations with you.
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Yes, you can typically drive yourself home and resume your normal daily activities immediately after a TMS session. There is no sedation involved, and the treatment does not impair alertness.
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No, TMS is significantly different from ECT. TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific brain areas without inducing a seizure or requiring anesthesia. ECT, on the other hand, involves intentionally inducing a seizure under general anesthesia to treat severe mental health conditions. TMS has fewer and milder side effects compared to ECT.
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Neurofeedback is often used to support individuals with:
Anxiety and stress management
Attention and focus challenges (e.g., ADHD symptoms)
Mood regulation (e.g., depressive symptoms)
Sleep difficulties
Cognitive performance (e.g., memory, processing speed)
Emotional balance
Symptoms related to trauma and PTSD
Peak performance in areas like sports or academics
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Neurofeedback works by providing real-time feedback on your brainwave activity. Small sensors are placed on your scalp to monitor your brainwaves. This information is then translated into a visual or auditory display (like a video game or movie). When your brain produces more desirable patterns, you receive positive feedback, and when it drifts to less desirable patterns, the feedback indicates this. Over time, your brain learns to self-regulate and produce more optimal brainwave patterns.
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No, Neurofeedback is completely painless and non-invasive. The sensors only measure brainwave activity; they do not deliver any electrical current to the brain. Most people find the sessions relaxing.
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A typical Neurofeedback session lasts between 30 to 50 minutes. The total number of sessions can vary widely depending on your individual goals and the complexity of the issues being addressed, but often ranges from 20 to 45 sessions. Sessions are typically conducted one to two times per week.
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Neurofeedback is very safe and generally has no adverse side effects. Occasionally, some individuals might feel a bit tired or experience a mild headache after a session, but these effects are usually temporary and subside quickly.
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Yes, Neurofeedback is a gentle and often highly effective approach for children, particularly for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and sleep issues. Children often engage well with the game-like format of Neurofeedback. The non-pharmacological nature of the treatment makes it an appealing option for many parents.
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Traditional therapy (e.g., psychotherapy) focuses on cognitive and emotional processing through discussion and behavioral strategies. Medication aims to manage symptoms by altering brain chemistry. Neurofeedback, on the other hand, directly trains the brain to improve its own regulation and function through a learning process. It can be used as a standalone treatment or as a complementary approach to other therapies and medications.