If you have been struggling with major depressive disorder and have not found relief from medication or therapy alone, you may feel frustrated and even hopeless. The idea of trying yet another treatment can seem overwhelming, especially when past approaches did not work the way you had hoped. Those feelings are completely understandable. As well as your mood, depression affects your sense of self and hope for the future.
NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy is a very different way of treating major depressive disorder. It works by stimulating specific areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, helping restore normal brain activity over time. If you have decided to undergo Neurostar TMS treatments, you will find out during your first appointment with our skilled mental health care professionals what the NeuroStar TMS treatment feels like and how it can fit into your daily life. Knowing what to expect from your first TMS session can help you feel more comfortable and confident as you begin this innovative treatment.
What Is an Initial NeuroStar TMS Session Like?
Your first appointment will begin with a relaxed, informative discussion in a comfortable setting. Our trained clinician will greet you, review your medical history, and explain exactly what will happen during your NeuroStar TMS therapy. The goal is for you to understand each step of the procedure and feel at ease before treatment begins.
The first thing our clinician will do during treatment is measure your head to determine the right placement for the magnetic coil used for NeuroStar TMS. This coil delivers magnetic pulses to the specific part of your brain involved in mood control. These pulses help stimulate brain cells that are underactive in people with depression. Most patients describe the treatment as mildly uncomfortable at first and then barely noticeable as the session goes on.
During your first session, our clinician must find your motor threshold, which is the amount of magnetic energy that causes a small movement in your hand or fingers. This will help us customize the settings for your treatment. You can return to your usual activities (including work, exercise, and driving) immediately after NeuroStar TMS treatments. They do not involve sedatives or anesthesia, and you stay fully awake the entire time.
What You Can Do To Prepare
Preparing for your initial NeuroStar TMS treatment is simple and straightforward. Wear comfortable clothing, and make sure your hair is clean and dry and does not have any gels, sprays, or other products in it. It is also helpful to eat a light meal or snack beforehand so you feel comfortable during the session. If you take any medications, let our clinician know about them in advance, since this information can help us tailor your treatment plan to your needs.
Many people find it useful to plan a calm day for their first appointment. You might want to give yourself time after your NeuroStar TMS session to relax and reflect on the experience. While most people feel perfectly fine after treatment, the first session can be emotionally meaningful because it represents a new beginning. Preparing in advance for your initial session can make it positive and empowering.
Call Us Today To Schedule an Initial NeuroStar TMS Session
Trying a new kind of mental health treatment may seem like a big step, especially when you have been living with depression for a long time. NeuroStar TMS therapy is different from traditional approaches, and it offers real hope for people who have not found success with medication alone.
If you are ready to explore whether NeuroStar TMS could help you, our team at Desert View Counseling is here to support you during your first TMS session. We will tell you what to expect, answer all of your questions, and make sure you feel supported and comfortable from day one. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
