Clinical Services
Rediscover Hope with Deep TMS Therapy
Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity. A clinician can assess whether it is appropriate for you.
Compassionate
What is Deep TMS?
Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain areas responsible for mood regulation. It is a non-pharmacological option for individuals who have not responded adequately to antidepressant medications or psychotherapy. Health Canada–licensed for Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, and anxious depression (also FDA-cleared in the U.S. for these indications). PTSD and addiction are supported by emerging research.
Types of Neuromodulation we offer at BrainStim:
Repetitive TMS (rTMS)
Uses repeated magnetic pulses to stimulate brain areas involved in mood regulation, according to a clinician-selected protocol. Used for depression, anxiety, and OCD.
Deep TMS (dTMS)
A form of TMS that uses a coil designed to reach deeper brain regions, according to a clinician-selected protocol. Used for severe depression and OCD; PTSD is supported by emerging research.
Neuro Feedback
A non-invasive therapy that supports brain function training, often used for memory issues and cognitive decline.
Transcranial direct current stimulation(tDCS)
Uses a mild electrical current, delivered through electrodes on the scalp, to stimulate brain activity, for patients with neurological conditions.
YOUR TREATMENT JOURNEY
What to Expect
A clear look at each step, from your first conversation with our team through ongoing follow-up.
Before your first visit
Your first step is a call with our team, including basic screening questions such as questions about metal implants. A psychiatrist then assesses you and recommends a treatment plan. Please bring photo ID and your health card to your first appointment.
During your appointment
You sit upright in a treatment chair with pillows and a footstool for comfort. Your technician fits a cap and padded helmet, secures the straps, and gives visual and audio cues before the pulses begin. Sessions include pulses followed by short breaks. The treatment is generally well tolerated and commonly feels like tapping on your head. Your technician checks in and can make adjustments.
How long it takes
Session length depends on the protocol your psychiatrist assigns. The accelerated protocol lasts under 10 minutes per session and includes 30 sessions over five days, with six sessions a day. If maintenance is recommended, it is typically 20 extra sessions over about eight weeks, though your physician may assign a different schedule.
Right after
No anesthesia, sedation or medication is involved, and you stay awake throughout. You can return to normal daily activities right after each session. Common side effects include fatigue, temporary headaches, scalp discomfort, and facial muscle or jaw soreness. Tell your technician or physician if anything bothers you so treatment can be adjusted.
Next steps
Your psychiatrist follows up at the start, middle and end of treatment, and more often if needed. Support continues with check-ins as needed. Sessions are always in person. A psychiatrist oversees treatment on site and does not need to be present for every session.
Conditions Deep TMS can help with:
Treatment suitability and evidence vary by diagnosis. A clinician will review approved indications, available evidence and individual factors.
Depression
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Health Canada–licensed indication.
Anxiety
Targets the neural circuits involved in anxiety, reducing symptoms of chronic worry, panic, and generalized anxiety disorder.
PTSD
Trauma-related stress and emotional dysregulation. Supported by emerging research.
OCD
Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Health Canada–licensed indication.
Addiction
Behavioral patterns linked to substance use. Supported by emerging research.
How does Deep TMS work?
Magnetic Pulses Target the Brain
A coil is placed on the scalp, delivering magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain areas linked to mood regulation.
Pulses Follow a Clinician-Selected Protocol
A coil delivers magnetic pulses according to a clinician-selected protocol.
Treatment Plan and Response.
The treatment plan and expected response vary by indication and individual factors.
