Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
A targeted, evidence-based approach when medication alone hasn't been enough.
The Hunter Clinics Approach
Dr. Hunter has led and consulted on TMS and interventional psychiatry programs since 2017, and serves on the Clinical TMS Society's Insurance Committee. Since 2017, he has provided TMS education and training to well over 1,000 clinicians and community members. That depth of experience allows Dr. Hunter to specifically tailor evidence-based protocols to each patient’s needs, while most providers simply use the standard, out-of-the-box protocol. More pulses per session, better localization, better results.
What is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a safe, highly effective, FDA-approved treatment for Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, and other conditions on- and off-label. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific regions of the brain. The technology is similar to MRI, involving minimal discomfort and without the systemic side effects often associated with psychiatric medication. TMS is non-invasive and does not require sedation, and patients return to normal activity immediately after each session.
Patient Candidacy
TMS is most often considered for Major Depressive Disorder that hasn't adequately responded to two or more antidepressant trials, though it is increasingly used for anxiety, OCD, and other conditions under a clinician's guidance. At Hunter Clinics, candidacy is determined through a thorough diagnostic evaluation. TMS is one tool among several, recommended only when it's the right fit for your clinical picture and goals.Ongoing, Measured Care
Every follow-up includes structured outcome tracking, so changes to your plan are guided by objective measures of symptoms and functioning, not just how you were feeling that morning. We work in step with your psychotherapy and other treatments, increasing, decreasing, or tapering medications as your needs evolve.
What the Treatment Course Looks Like
A typical course involves sessions five days a week for six weeks, followed by a six-session taper, with each session lasting roughly 25 minutes. You'll feel a buzzing or tapping sensation at the treatment site; there's no anesthesia, no recovery time, and you can drive yourself to and from appointments. Progress is tracked using the same validated outcome measures we apply across every Hunter Clinics treatment, so your care team can see, objectively, whether the protocol is working.
What to Expect
• A comprehensive evaluation to confirm candidacy
• A personalized stimulation protocol calibrated to your diagnosis
• Sessions roughly 25 minutes long, typically 5 days per week
• No anesthesia, no sedation, no downtime
• Outcomes tracked at every step using validated measures
Frequently Asked Questions
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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment for major depressive disorder and OCD. It uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain associated with mood regulation , without medication, anesthesia, or downtime.
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TMS is most commonly recommended for patients who have not achieved adequate results from antidepressant medications, or who prefer a non-pharmacological treatment approach. Candidacy is determined during a full psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Hunter.
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Many commercial insurance plans cover TMS for major depressive disorder when medical necessity criteria are met. Coverage varies by plan. Our team will verify your benefits prior to beginning treatment and walk you through any out-of-pocket costs.
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Yes. Unlike ECT, TMS does not require sedation or anesthesia. Most patients drive themselves to and from their sessions and return to normal daily activities immediately after.