Question 1

What is TMS?

Accepted Answer

TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) is a non-invasive, non-pharmacologic brain stimulation treatment.  During a session, you sit comfortably while a handheld device rests lightly against your head under clinician supervision.  The device delivers brief magnetic pulses to stimulate brain cells.  You will hear clicking sounds and feel tapping on the scalp for a few seconds at a time during treatment.

Question 2

What conditions does TMS treat?

Accepted Answer

X

Question 3

How does TMS work?

Accepted Answer

Mood Regions & Circuits: It uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells and specific brain circuits involved in mood regulation, thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.  No Direct Electrical Current: It stimulates brain cells using magnetic pulses without passing electrical current through the skin.  Neuroregulation & Resetting: TMS helps reset patterns of brain activity associated with depression and supports the brain's capacity for emotional regulation, coping, and resilience.

Question 4

What is neuroplasticity?

Accepted Answer

X

Question 5

What is Ampa One?

Accepted Answer

Ampa One is an FDA-cleared transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) system. It is indicated by prescription only for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression. The system features a camera-enabled, handheld coil designed to support precise coil positioning, clinician workflow, and repeatable session setups in clinical practice.

Question 6

Is TMS right for me?

Accepted Answer

TMS may be an option if you have depression that has not improved with prior treatments. However, TMS is not appropriate for every patient. Eligibility and candidacy depend on your medical history and are determined through a consultation with your clinician.

Question 7

How does TMS compare to other depression treatments?

Accepted Answer

Unlike Medications: TMS is a non-drug treatment, meaning no pharmaceuticals circulate throughout your body, avoiding systemic medication side effects. It is also delivered in a finite series of clinic sessions rather than taken as a daily pill.  Unlike ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy): TMS is not "shock therapy". It does not involve anesthesia or seizure induction, and it is not typically associated with memory loss.

Question 8

How effective is TMS?

Accepted Answer

Published clinical studies and real-world data show that the majority of people with depression respond to TMS, though individual results may vary.

Question 9

Are the results of TMS permanent? Will I need follow-up care?

Accepted Answer

The effects of TMS may not be permanent. Depression symptoms can return over time, so some patients may require follow-up care, ongoing depression therapies, or additional maintenance sessions after their initial course.

Question 10

What are the safety risks and side effects of TMS?

Accepted Answer

Tolerability: TMS is non-pharmacologic and generally well tolerated with fewer systemic side effects than medications.  Common Side Effects: Side effects are typically mild and temporary, such as mild scalp discomfort or a temporary headache.  Seizures: The most serious potential side effect is a seizure, which is very rare (occurring in less than 1 in 10,000 sessions).  Contraindications & Screening: TMS is not appropriate for patients with certain implanted metallic or electronic devices near the head. Your clinician will conduct a safety screening to review precautions and contraindications before treatment.  Psychiatric Monitoring: As with any depression treatment, symptoms may worsen or suicidal thoughts may emerge; patients should be monitored closely and contact their clinician immediately if urgent concerns arise.

Question 11

What are the schedule options? What is the One-Day TMS Program?

Accepted Answer

Standard Schedule: A typical TMS course traditionally involves one session per day over multiple days. One-Day Program:  multiple sessions are spaced throughout a single day with rest periods in between, allowing patients to complete their program and return home the same day.

Question 12

Can other techniques be combined with TMS to enhance results?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Some clinics use additional neuroplasticity-related techniques (such as aerobic exercise or other complementary approaches) before or during TMS to support brain function and plasticity. Your clinician can recommend whether additional techniques are appropriate for your specific treatment plan.

Question 13

Can TMS be combined with medications or talk therapy?

Accepted Answer

X

TMS & Ampa One Frequently Asked Questions