Deep TMS vs. TMS in Houston, TX
Ready to get started?
Contact UsWhat Is the Difference Between TMS and Deep TMS?
There are several differences between traditional Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep TMS with the most notable being the coil type. Traditional TMS uses a figure-eight-shaped coil that only targets a small area of the brain whereas BrainsWay's patented H-Coil for Deep TMS is designed to reach wider and deeper regions of the brain during the treatment process. Unlike the coil used in traditional TMS, which can shift easily by any movement, the H-Coil is fastened to the patient's head, allowing for greater comfort and mobility. Additionally, because the H-Coil is able to reach a bigger target area, Deep TMS can naturally treat a broader range of psychiatric disorders compared to traditional TMS, which has only been FDA-approved to treat depression. To find out more, call TMS Therapy Center in Houston, TX where psychologist Dr. Tioana Maxwell performs Deep TMS.
What Are the Advantages of Deep TMS Over TMS?
As the most up-to-date TMS device currently available, BrainsWay Deep TMS boasts a number of advantages over traditional TMS technology. There is extensive research that doesn't exist for TMS that has been conducted on the usefulness of Deep TMS, including more than 60 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of at least 3,000 patients. Deep TMS has been clinically proven to be more effective than traditional TMS at treating major depressive disorder (MDD) with or without the use of medication as well.
Other advantages Deep TMS vs. regular TMS include:
- Treats a wider range of mental health conditions
- Fewer targeting errors
- Shorter treatment sessions
- A more comfortable experience
How Does the Treatment Process for Deep TMS vs. TMS Compare?
Deep TMS and TMS are both noninvasive types of therapy that use magnetic fields to target brain structures, helping regulate their neural activity. As a result, the severity and occurrence of symptoms from a psychiatric condition lessen over time. Both types of therapies have been approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder; however, according to a study in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, 67% of patients using Deep TMS with psychiatric medication experienced an improvement in their depression symptoms versus just 44% of patients who used TMS while taking medication. Deep TMS also reaches a depth of 1.25 inches whereas traditional TMS only goes as far as 0.27 inches deep. While sessions for both Deep TMS and TMS run about 4 – 6 weeks, the sessions for Deep TMS are quicker. TMS takes about 30 – 40 minutes per session while the length of a Deep TMS session is only about 20 minutes.
What To Expect After Deep TMS vs. TMS
After a TMS session, most patients can immediately return to their daily activities. Side effects are typically mild and temporary, often including localized discomfort or headache at the treatment site, which usually subsides shortly after the session. Unlike other treatment options, Deep TMS does not involve sedation, so there is no recovery period involved. Many patients begin to experience improvements in their symptoms after a few weeks of consistent sessions, with optimal results often seen at the end of the full treatment course. The benefits of Deep TMS can last for several months, and for some, even longer. Our team can discuss the likelihood of needing follow-up treatments.
Discover Deep TMS And TMS Therapy
At TMS Therapy Center in Houston, TX, Dr. Tioana Maxwell provides advanced Deep TMS therapy to help patients achieve lasting relief from mental health conditions like major depressive disorder. With its innovative technology, shorter treatment times, and ability to target deeper brain regions, our team is proud to offer state-of-the-art options. If you’re ready to take the next step toward improved mental health, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how Deep TMS can make a difference in your life.
Learn More About TMS Therapy Center
About UsDeep TMS vs. TMS FAQs
Do you always have to start with regular TMS before trying Deep TMS therapy?
No. Deep TMS therapy is not simply a secondary step after standard TMS. It is a distinct treatment approach using specialized H-coil technology to stimulate broader neural networks. Whether Deep TMS is appropriate depends on diagnosis, symptom severity, and prior treatment history. Our team will evaluate your clinical background and determine whether Deep TMS can be considered as an initial neuromodulation option.
Is there a minimum age requirement for Deep TMS?
Deep TMS therapy is FDA cleared for specific age groups depending on the condition being treated. Eligibility is determined by diagnosis, age, and clinical appropriateness rather than age alone. Our team will review regulatory guidelines and assess your medical history to confirm whether Deep TMS therapy is an appropriate option.
Can I get Deep TMS therapy if I am already taking medications for my mental health condition?
Yes, many patients continue their prescribed psychiatric medications while undergoing Deep TMS therapy. In fact, Deep TMS is often used alongside medication management. Any medication adjustments should be coordinated carefully. Our team will review your current prescriptions and collaborate with your prescribing provider to ensure a safe and cohesive treatment plan.
Are there notable differences in side effects between Deep TMS and TMS?
Both therapies have similar, generally mild, and temporary side effects, such as scalp discomfort or headache. These effects tend to diminish over time.
Is one more effective than the other?
The choice between Deep TMS and TMS depends on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors. Deep TMS may offer an advantage for conditions that require deeper brain stimulation.
Can Deep TMS and TMS be used together with other treatments?
Yes, both Deep TMS and TMS can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, often in combination with therapy and/or medication.