NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy may offer a new path forward if you are suffering from depression, especially if you have already tried medications that caused unpleasant side effects or did not provide enough relief. How to choose a TMS provider is one of the most important aspects of starting treatment for Major Depressive Disorder and can feel overwhelming.
NeuroStar TMS therapy is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression. Selecting the right provider ensures your treatment will be safe, supportive, and tailored to your needs.
Not all providers offer the same experience. The following traits can help guide your decision:
Choose a provider that specializes in NeuroStar TMS therapy, not just general TMS. NeuroStar has been used in more than 6.9 million treatments with over 188,000 patients. A clinic trained in its FDA-cleared protocols is better equipped to deliver high-quality care.
You may want to ask:
Treatment for depression is not one-size-fits-all. A strong provider will take the time to understand your mental health history, symptoms, and goals before building a care plan. This includes appointment scheduling, symptom tracking, and ongoing support.
Ask the provider:
Since sessions occur five days per week for seven weeks, the treatment space should feel welcoming and comfortable. Feeling relaxed in your surroundings can make a difference in your overall experience.
Things to look for include:
Understanding how NeuroStar TMS works is essential. Your provider should clearly explain what to expect, including how magnetic pulse therapy targets specific brain areas. TMS does not cure depression, but it can improve symptoms when other treatments have not worked.
Expect to learn about:
Depression affects many aspects of life. While TMS addresses brain stimulation, a provider who supports overall mental wellness may offer referrals to therapy or medication management when needed.
Consider asking:
These questions can provide the basis for how you select the right TMS provider for you.
Finding the right provider is about more than convenience, it shapes your experience and recovery. In a real-world study, 83 percent of patients saw symptom improvement with NeuroStar TMS therapy (Sackeim HA, et al., 2020. J Affect Disord, 277:65 74). Compassionate care, experience, and a personalized approach help make those results possible.
Depression can affect work, relationships, and everyday life. Choosing the right TMS provider can ensure you’re treated as a whole person, not just a diagnosis, and that can make all the difference.
Most providers offer an initial consultation to determine if NeuroStar TMS is a good fit. This visit is a great time to share your health history, ask questions, and understand how the process works.
Topics to cover include:
Sessions last about 20 minutes and are done on an outpatient basis, with no anesthesia or downtime.
Learning how to choose a TMS provider is the first step toward finding relief from depression. A team you trust, one with NeuroStar TMS experience and a personalized approach, can help you feel safe, supported, and confident in your care. If you are ready to explore this treatment option, we are here to help.
