UCLA Health TMS Center

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. At UCLA Health TMS Center, we use BrainsWay Deep TMS and MagVenture and Magstim technology to precisely target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), the brain region associated with mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS does not circulate through the bloodstream, so patients experience minimal to no systemic side effects. A typical treatment course involves 36 sessions over 6-9 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 19-20 minutes.

We recommend contacting UCLA Health TMS Center directly to discuss insurance coverage. Our administrative team can verify your benefits and assist with prior authorization. Most major insurance plans cover TMS therapy for treatment-resistant depression.

Your first TMS session at UCLA Health TMS Center begins with the treatment team determining your motor threshold, which calibrates the magnetic pulse intensity to your individual brain. You will be seated comfortably in a treatment chair while a coil is positioned against your head. You may feel a tapping sensation on your scalp during treatment. Sessions typically last 19-20 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward, including driving. There is no anesthesia or sedation required. Most patients describe the experience as comfortable and use the time to relax, read, or listen to music.

Individual response times vary, but many patients at UCLA Health TMS Center begin noticing improvements in mood, energy, and sleep within the first 2-3 weeks of treatment. The full course of treatment typically spans 36 sessions over 6-9 weeks. Clinical studies show that approximately 50-60% of patients with treatment-resistant depression achieve meaningful improvement, and about one-third experience complete remission. Our clinical team monitors your progress throughout treatment and can adjust protocols as needed.

TMS therapy is one of the safest treatments available for depression. The most common side effect is mild scalp discomfort or a tapping sensation at the treatment site during sessions, which typically diminishes after the first few treatments. Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS does not cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, or drowsiness. There is no recovery time needed after sessions. The most serious but rare risk is seizure, occurring in less than 0.1% of patients. Our clinical team at UCLA Health TMS Center conducts thorough screening to minimize any risks.

TMS therapy costs vary based on insurance coverage, treatment protocol, and session count. Contact UCLA Health TMS Center for pricing details. Our administrative team provides complimentary insurance verification and can give you a clear picture of your expected costs before treatment begins.

TMS therapy at UCLA Health TMS Center is ideal for adults who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and have not achieved adequate relief from at least one antidepressant medication. You may also be a candidate if you experience intolerable side effects from medications. TMS is not recommended for patients with metallic implants in or near the head (excluding dental fillings), or those with a history of seizures. During your initial consultation, our clinical team will review your complete medical and psychiatric history to determine if TMS is appropriate for you.

Yes. BrainsWay Deep TMS was specifically FDA-cleared for OCD treatment in 2018. The H7 coil targets deeper brain structures including the anterior cingulate cortex, which plays a key role in OCD symptoms. At UCLA Health TMS Center, we offer specialized OCD protocols that have shown significant symptom reduction in clinical trials. Treatment typically involves sessions 5 days per week for 6 weeks.