TMS Therapy for Depression in San Antonio
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared therapy that uses precisely targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive mood-regulating circuits in the brain. Ideal for treatment-resistant depression, this advanced therapy is administered at our San Antonio clinics without medications, anesthesia, or recovery time, allowing you to resume normal daily activities immediately.
TMS Fast Facts
- FDA-cleared for major depression and PTSD
- Non-invasive — no surgery, no anesthesia
- Drug-free — no systemic medication side effects
- In-office sessions, typically 19–37 minutes
- Patients remain awake and alert throughout
- Standard course: 36 sessions over 6–9 weeks
- TRICARE Accepted for Veterans & Families
How Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Works
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation therapy that uses focused magnetic pulses — similar in strength to those used in MRI machines — to activate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. The primary target is the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), a region that is underactive in most people with depression.
During a session, a small electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp. The device delivers repeated magnetic pulses that pass through the skull painlessly and stimulate nerve cells in the targeted region. Over the course of a full treatment series, this stimulation gradually reactivates underperforming neural circuits, leading to sustained improvement in mood, motivation, sleep, and concentration.
Every Health 210 Psychiatry location provides Deep TMS (dTMS) by Brainsway, which reaches deeper brain structures than standard coil systems and carries FDA clearance for OCD and smoking cessation in addition to depression and PTSD.
Schedule a TMS Consultation
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Deep TMS (dTMS) by Brainsway — At Every Location
Boerne, Stone Oak, Westover, and Medical Center all use the same Brainsway Deep TMS system, so you get the same advanced technology no matter which office you visit.
Deep TMS (dTMS) by Brainsway
Uses the H-coil to reach deeper and broader brain structures than standard coil systems. FDA-cleared for depression, OCD, PTSD, and smoking cessation — making it particularly valuable for veterans with PTSD or patients with complex presentations.
- FDA-cleared for depression, OCD & PTSD
- Reaches deeper cortical structures
- Covered by most major insurance plans, including TRICARE for eligible veterans
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
- 1
Psychiatric Evaluation & Candidacy Assessment
Your provider reviews your psychiatric history, prior medication trials, and diagnoses to confirm you're an appropriate TMS candidate. We also screen for any contraindications (e.g., metal implants in or near the head).
- 2
Motor Threshold Mapping
Your first treatment session includes a calibration process where we determine your motor threshold — the minimum magnetic intensity needed to activate motor neurons. This ensures your treatment is precisely dosed for your brain.
- 3
Treatment Sessions (5x per Week)
Treatment involves 5 sessions per week for 6–9 weeks. Each session lasts 19–37 minutes. You sit comfortably, remain awake, and can return to normal activities immediately afterward — no sedation or recovery time required.
- 4
Symptom Monitoring & Follow-Up
Your team tracks your response using validated rating scales throughout the course. Many patients notice improvement starting around weeks 3–4. After the acute course, we discuss maintenance options based on your response.
TMS Therapy — Common Questions
Does TMS hurt?
Most patients describe the sensation as a light tapping or knocking on the scalp during each pulse sequence. Discomfort is mild and typically improves after the first few sessions as your scalp adjusts. TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation.
Are there side effects?
The most common side effects are mild scalp discomfort and headaches, which usually resolve after the first week of treatment. Unlike antidepressants, TMS does not cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or systemic side effects. Rare risk of seizure exists but is extremely low in properly screened patients.
Does insurance cover TMS?
Yes — TMS is covered by most major insurance plans including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare, Humana, and TRICARE, typically after documented failure of at least one antidepressant. Our team will verify your benefits before starting treatment.
Can I continue my antidepressants during TMS?
Yes. TMS is frequently used alongside antidepressant medications as an augmentation strategy. Your provider will review your current medications and make any necessary adjustments during the treatment course.
How long do TMS results last?
Results vary, but many patients maintain improvement for 12 months or longer after a successful course of TMS. For patients who relapse, repeat courses of TMS are generally as effective as the first. We discuss all maintenance options with you after your acute course.
How much does TMS therapy cost in San Antonio?
TMS is covered by most major insurance plans, including Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, United Healthcare, Humana, and TRICARE, typically after documented failure of at least one antidepressant — most patients pay only a copay or coinsurance per session once approved. For patients without coverage or who haven't yet met criteria, we offer self-pay pricing. See our Insurance & Fees page or contact us for a personalized cost estimate.
Explore TMS Therapy in San Antonio
Book a consultation to find out if TMS is the right next step for your depression or PTSD treatment.
Health 210 Psychiatry is a proud member of Privia Medical Group — a high-performance physician network committed to coordinated, patient-first care across San Antonio and beyond.
