TMS Therapy: What to Expect in Your First Session
- Moe | Scarlet Plus
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Breakthrough Care with MindBodyPinnacle Health – Laurel, MD & Washington, D.C.
If you’ve been exploring new options for treating depression that hasn’t responded to medication, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) might be the solution you’ve been searching for.
At MindBodyPinnacle Health, we help individuals understand what TMS is, how it works, and what their very first session will look like—so you can approach treatment with clarity and confidence.
Page Contents:
1. What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Help?
TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s non-invasive, medication-free, and FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression.
TMS at a glance:
🧠 Targets the prefrontal cortex to improve mood regulation
✅ FDA-approved for major depressive disorder (MDD)
🛏 No sedation or downtime—patients are fully awake
📊 Backed by strong clinical results (NIMH)
2. Your First Session: What to Expect
The first session is about comfort, calibration, and care. You’ll meet your provider, review your treatment plan, and undergo mapping to determine the ideal stimulation spot.
What happens during the visit:
🪑 You’ll sit comfortably in a treatment chair
📍 Mapping determines your motor threshold (your unique dosage)
🔄 The treatment itself lasts about 20–40 minutes
🧑⚕️ Staff monitors you closely throughout the session
📋 Side effects are mild—tingling, scalp discomfort, or light tapping. See more at Mayo Clinic
3. What You’ll Feel During and After
Most patients describe TMS as a tapping or clicking sensation on the scalp. There’s no anesthesia required, and you’ll be able to drive home or resume your daily activities afterward.
Typical sensations include:
🔊 Clicking noise with each pulse (ear protection is provided)
🌀 Mild scalp tingling or light pressure
🛏 No cognitive side effects—unlike medications
📈 Some patients report mood lift after just a few sessions
4. How to Prepare for Your Session
TMS is a low-stress procedure—but some preparation can help ensure a smooth experience.
Before your session:
👕 Wear comfortable clothes—no metal accessories
📃 Bring your treatment schedule or documentation
🍽️ Eat a light meal beforehand
📵 Turn off electronic devices and leave them outside the room
📚 Learn how to maximize results at Cleveland Clinic
Conclusion
TMS offers a safe, proven alternative for individuals seeking relief from depression without the side effects of medication.
At MindBodyPinnacle Health, we walk with you from your very first session to your full treatment plan—so you can move toward recovery with confidence.
👉 Ready to explore TMS? Contact MindBodyPinnacle Health in Laurel, MD or Washington, D.C. to learn if it’s right for you.
Getting Started Is Easy
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Your Next Steps
Curious to learn more? Check out:
When you’re ready to break free from depression and reclaim your joy, MindBodyPinnacle is here in Maryland—with a team that speaks your language,
understands your life, and believes in your brighter tomorrow.
Ready to try something new?Give us a ring at (443) 713-8643 or click Book My Free Consultation now. Let’s get you moving toward the light.
