Our Values
At North Coast TMS, we are more than just a clinic – we are a team of caring clinicians who genuinely want the best for our patients. We understand that the path to better mental health can be tough, and we are here to support you with empathy and expertise.
We take our work seriously and provide high quality, evidence based TMS therapy.
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
TMS is most commonly used to help treat Major Depressive Disorder, particularly when other treatments such as medication have not been effective.
At North Coast TMS, we offer both standard TMS and Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS). TBS is a shorter form of TMS treatment that may be suitable for some patients, depending on a clinical assessment with our doctor
TMS does not involve surgery or sedation. Patients remain awake during treatment and can usually return to normal activities shortly afterwards.
How does TMS Work?
TMS uses a specialised device placed against the scalp that delivers gentle magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain.
These pulses stimulate nerve cells and may help improve communication within brain circuits that are involved in mood regulation. Over time, this stimulation may help reduce symptoms of depression for some patients.
What Conditions does TMS Help Treat?
TMS is most commonly used to treat:
- Major Depressive Disorders
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Depression that has not improved with medication (treatment-resistant depression)
In some cases, TMS may also be considered for other mental health conditions – such as OCD or post-traumatic stress disorder –following assessment with our doctor.
What are the potential benefits of TMS?
Some patients may consider TMS because it offers several potential advantages:
- Non-invasive treatment (no surgery or injections)
- No sedation or anaesthetic required
- Minimal recovery time
- Sessions are performed while the patient is awake
- May be an option when antidepressant medications have not been effective or tolerated
- Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS) – a novel form of TMS – may be available for suitable patients
- It can provide benefit when other treatments have failed
Your doctor will discuss whether TMS is an appropriate treatment option for your individual circumstances.
What Happens During a TMS Treatment?
During a TMS session:
1. You will sit comfortably in a treatment chair.
2. A treatment device will be positioned gently against your scalp.
3. Magnetic pulses are delivered to the targeted area of the brain.
Each session typically lasts 3 to 20 minutes, depending on the type of TMS being provided, and treatment is usually delivered over multiple sessions across several weeks.
Is TMS Safe?
TMS has been widely studied and is generally well tolerated when provided by trained clinicians.
Some patients may experience mild side effects, such as:
- Temporary scalp discomfort
- Mild headache after treatment
- Feeling faint or lightheaded.
Very rarely TMS can lead to seizures.. Research suggests this occurs less than 1 in 30’000 treatments. At North Coast TMS we have never had a patient experience a seizure. Our treating doctor will discuss potential risks and whether TMS is suitable for you.
Who May Be Suitable for TMS?
TMS may be considered for people who:
- Are experiencing depression
- Have not had sufficient improvement with antidepressant medications
- Cannot tolerate medication side effects
- Are looking for a non-invasive, effective treatment option
A consultation with our doctor is required to determine whether TMS is appropriate for your situation.
