Research suggests accelerated TMS can reduce depressive symptoms in some patients, including individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Several clinical studies have reported promising outcomes using intensive TMS schedules.

However, response rates differ considerably depending on the stimulation protocol, patient characteristics, treatment equipment, and methods used to measure outcomes. The results from one clinical study should not automatically be applied to every accelerated TMS program.

Importantly, completing treatment faster does not guarantee that symptoms will improve faster. At Certus Psychiatry, we believe patients deserve a realistic understanding of both the possibilities and limitations of treatment. Our goal is to help you make an informed choice about your care.

• Step 1 – Consultation and Evaluation: Your treatment begins with an evaluation of your psychiatric history, symptoms, medications, and previous treatment responses. The Certus team will discuss whether Accelerated TMS is appropriate and explain the proposed schedule.
• Step 2 – Treatment Planning: Your clinical team determines the stimulation approach and treatment parameters appropriate for your care. You’ll receive information about the length of each visit, rest periods, and expected follow-up.
• Step 3 – Accelerated Treatment Sessions: During each session, you sit in a treatment chair while a specialized TMS device delivers magnetic stimulation. You remain awake and can communicate with the care team throughout the procedure. Sessions are scheduled with rest intervals between treatments.
• Step 4: Monitoring and Follow-Up: Your provider evaluates symptoms and treatment response during and after the program. Depending on your progress, additional psychiatric care, medication management, psychotherapy, or other follow-up may be recommended.

TMS is generally well tolerated when used appropriately. Potential side effects include:

• Temporary headaches.
• Scalp discomfort at the stimulation site.
• Unusual sensations during stimulation.
• Temporary fatigue or other mild discomfort.
• Serious adverse events, including seizures, are uncommon but possible. Before treatment, your provider will discuss risks, relevant medical history, implanted devices, and other factors that may affect eligibility.

Because Accelerated TMS uses a more intensive treatment schedule, understanding the specific protocol and its supporting safety evidence is especially important.

• Traditional TMS: usually once per weekday over several and often covered for qualifying patients.
• Accelerated TMS: multiple sessions per day over several days. Insurance coverage is frequently limited, and evidence varies by specific accelerated protocol.

Both approaches use non-invasive magnetic stimulation. The right choice depends on clinical appropriateness, available evidence, insurance coverage, and individual circumstances.

Accelerated TMS is not routinely covered by many insurance plans. Insurance policies typically include specific requirements governing the number and frequency of TMS sessions.

Although conventional TMS is often covered for eligible patients with depression, accelerated treatment schedules may fall outside those requirements. Certus Psychiatry can explain current program pricing, payment options, and any insurance considerations before you decide to proceed.