TMS
TMS Therapy for Depression—A Safe, Drug-Free Path to Healing
“When Depression Doesn’t Change—There’s Still Hope”
You’ve done everything you were told to feel better—but the heaviness is still there.
If you feel trapped in an unceasing cycle of sadness, fatigue, and hopelessness, rest assured, you are not alone—and also you’re not out of options. At MiMood, we offer advanced depression treatment options like TMS Therapy (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for depression—a drug-free, scientifically backed treatment that targets even treatment-resistant depression. Many patients now turn to TMS depression treatment when other methods have failed, finding it both safe and effective.
It is your opportunity to get your life back. To take a breath without the weight of it on your chest. To be yourself again.
Now, if you are looking for TMS depression treatment near me? We offer both in-person and virtual TMS consultations and treatments all over Michigan. But before anything, let’s learn a bit more about this treatment and our services.
What is TMS Therapy?
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a safe and non-invasive therapy option that stimulates specific areas of your brain associated with mood and depression. It is much like jump-starting your brain’s natural function using targeted and safe magnetic pulses.
There are no drugs. No downtime. No sedation.
Just break through the solution that is continuously being shown in scientific studies, which, of course, is given with love.
How TMS Works—Step by Step
Initial assessment with a clinician to determine candidacy.
Placement and calibration of the magnetic coil on the scalp.
Gentle tapping sensation on the scalp; lasts about 20 minutes
Daily sessions (5 times/week) for 4–6 weeks.
Ongoing support, with progress tracked by your care team.
Who is TMS for?
TMS therapy is particularly useful for:
- Adults who have tried multiple antidepressants unsuccessfully
- People with major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Anyone looking for a non-medication route to treat their depression
- The one who has experienced the bad side effects of traditional treatments
Whether you are taking the plunge for the first time ever with TMS or you are considering a new direction after many years of trying, MiMood makes your journey safe, uncomplicated, and personal.
In addition to TMS, we also guide patients toward complementary care such as individual therapy in Battle Creek, MI, for a more complete healing journey.
Who Should Avoid TMS?
TMS is safe for most patients, but it may not be recommended for:
- Individuals with metal implants in the head (e.g., aneurysm clips, deep brain stimulators, pacemakers near the chest).
- People with a history of seizures (caution needed, case-by-case).
- Patients with unstable medical conditions.
Your MiMood specialist will carefully evaluate your history before treatment.
TMS vs Other Treatments (Comparison Table)
| Feature | Medications | TMS Therapy | ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side Effects | Weight gain, fatigue | Mild scalp tapping | Memory loss possible |
| Drug-Free | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Sedation Required | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Downtime | Daily impact | None | Recovery time |
| Insurance Coverage | Sometimes | ✓ | ✓ |
Risks of TMS
- Mild headache after sessions
- Scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation
- Rare risk of seizure (<0.1%)
- Dizziness or tingling sensations (temporary)
Side Effects of TMS
- Scalp discomfort
- Light tapping sensation during treatment
- Temporary headache or mild fatigue
- No weight gain. No sexual side effects. No memory issues.
Why Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Done?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is primarily used to treat depression, especially when other options like medication or talk therapy haven’t provided enough relief. Many people turn to TMS after trying multiple antidepressants without success.
It is especially effective for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and is often recommended for treatment-resistant depression. For patients who can’t tolerate the side effects of medications, TMS offers a safe, drug-free alternative.
By directly stimulating the areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, TMS provides hope for individuals who may feel they are running out of treatment options.
TMS Treatment Details
A clinician will review your medical history and confirm that TMS is a suitable option for you. There’s no special preparation required—you can eat, drink, and take your regular medications as usual.
You’ll sit comfortably in a chair while a magnetic coil is positioned against your scalp. The treatment involves gentle tapping sensations and typically lasts 20 minutes or less. Most patients find the experience comfortable and non-invasive.
You can immediately return to your daily activities, including work or driving. Some people may experience mild scalp discomfort or a temporary headache, but these effects usually resolve quickly.
Benefits of TMS Therapy
FDA-cleared and proven effective
Long-lasting improvement (over 60% of patients report relief)
No systemic side effects from medications
Promotes natural brain function
Builds resilience and restores hope
TMS is increasingly part of modern behavioral health strategies, with many patients now benefiting from structured TMS behavioral health programs at MiMood.
Patient Stories & Testimonials
When To Call the Doctor
Different Types of TMS
This is the most common and FDA-approved protocol for depression. It delivers repeated magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions involved in mood control. rTMS has been widely studied and proven effective for treatment-resistant depression.
Deep TMS uses a special coil design to reach broader and deeper brain structures than standard rTMS. This makes it especially effective for people who haven’t responded to traditional depression treatments or have more severe symptoms.
TBS is a newer, faster version of TMS that delivers bursts of stimulation in just a few minutes per session. Despite being shorter, it is shown to be as effective as standard TMS, making it a convenient option for people with busy schedules.
Your provider will recommend the best type for your condition.
TMS Treatment at MiMood
Here is what you can expect from our individualized TMS experience:
- FDA-cleared technology shown for depression
- Treatments that are 20 minutes or less for a treatment session
- Administered by experienced clinicians within a calming environment
- Minimal to no side effects (no weight gain, no memory loss, and no sedation)
- Long-term relief, with over 60% of patients having a good response rate
Our providers walk with you every step of the way from initial evaluation to your last session.
Do you recognize this?
- You have tried multiple antidepressants and received little to no relief
- Therapy works, but not enough!
- You feel numb, stuck, or overwhelmed, and you’ve tried everything
- You are ready for a safe, drug-free option
If this sounds like your story, it may be time to explore the option of TMS treatment for depression.
Our Care Model
At MiMood, we provide advanced TMS Grand Rapids and Battle Creek centers, along with statewide virtual support, so care is always accessible. Our experienced clinical team specializes in treating depression and ensures every patient receives personalized attention in comfortable, supportive spaces in Battle Creek and Grand Rapids.
We provide confidential consultations, customized treatment plans, and flexible scheduling, including assistance with insurance navigation. If you’re searching for “TMS for depression near me,” MiMood is here to make your journey safe, simple, and effective.
TMS Therapy FAQs
It modulates neural circuits that are underactive in depression—improving communication across brain networks, ultimately lifting mood and reducing symptoms.
TMS uses magnetic pulses to noninvasively stimulate specific brain regions related to mood regulation. It’s like “jump-starting” neuronal activity in underactive regions.
Yes—many patients (including those with treatment-resistant depression) report significant improvements. The MiMood page cites “over 60% of patients report lasting improvement.”
Yes—it’s FDA-cleared and non-invasive, with fewer systemic side effects compared to medications. The MiMood page emphasizes that it is safe and well-tolerated.
There’s minimal research in children. TMS is FDA-cleared for adults; its use in kids is generally experimental and done only in special research settings.
Generally, adults (18+) are the standard. The minimum age is not well-established; pediatric use is rare and mostly research-based.
Typically, a full treatment “course” involves daily sessions (5 days/week) for 4–6 weeks. Each session is under 20 minutes.
Most courses run daily (weekdays) for 4 to 6 weeks — so about 20 to 30 sessions total.
Yes — most people feel a light tapping or pulsing sensation on the scalp. Most describe it as tolerable and comfortable.
- Mild scalp discomfort or tingling at the stimulation site
- Headache (usually mild)
- Rare: muscle twitches, lightheadedness
- Very rare: risk of seizure (especially in predisposed individuals)
- No metal in or on your head (e.g., certain implants, piercings)
- Avoid moving during treatment
- Avoid medications or stimulations that your clinician advises against
- Avoid missing sessions (consistency matters)
Many begin noticing mood shifts around 2 to 4 weeks into treatment. Full benefits often emerge after several consistent weeks.
- Mood lift, more energy, less “stuck” feeling
- Fewer depressive symptoms
- Better sleep, appetite, motivation
- Increased interest in daily life
Many patients return to baseline or improved functioning — better mood, more engagement, and fewer symptoms. Some require maintenance or follow-up sessions.
The left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is the most common target in depression protocols.