Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

We provide evidence-based treatment, including TMS, a proven modality of care indicated for treatment-resistant depression and OCD. This treatment is also indicated for childbearing women where there may be medication-related concerns.

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What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS is a safe, non-invasive treatment cleared by the FDA to help treat depression in patients who have not found relief with standard treatments. TMS works by using short, magnetic impulses to stimulate underactive nerve cells in brain regions known to regulate mood, helping to reset brain chemistry.

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We use the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system, the FDA-cleared device for treating major depression, with proven durability of its effects over 12 months.

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Average Symptom Improvement from TMS Treatment

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TMS Chart Description

These charts show the average improvement of patients after completing TMS treatment at Animo Sano Psychiatry. The treatment consisted of 36 sessions and the improvement was measured by 3 rating scales: HAM-D, PHQ-9, GAD-7.

The Average Starting Point in these patients for each of these scales were:

27.8 (HAM-D)

16.3 (PHQ-9)

11.2 (GAD-7)

The Average Finishing Scores were:

9.3 (HAM-D)

7.7 (PHQ-9)

5.2 (GAD-7)

The results show that TMS significantly reduced both depression and anxiety, moving patients from more severe symptoms to much milder ones, showcasing the benefits of TMS for improving mental health.

Scoring Details

HAM-D

  • Scores 0-7: Normal
  • Scores 8-16: Mild Depression
  • Scores 17-23: Moderate Depression
  • Scores 24 and above: Severe Depression

PHQ-9

  • Scores 0-4: Minimal Depression
  • Scores 5-9: Mild Depression
  • Scores 10-14: Moderate Depression
  • Scores 15-19: Moderately Severe Depression
  • Scores 20-27: Severe Depression

GAD-7

  • Scores 0-4: Minimal Anxiety
  • Scores 5-9: Mild Anxiety
  • Scores 10-14: Moderate Anxiety
  • Scores 15 and above: Severe Anxiety

Average Symptom Improvement from TMS Treatment

Group 240357

TMS Chart Description

These charts show the average improvement of patients after completing TMS treatment at Animo Sano Psychiatry. The treatment consisted of 36 sessions and the improvement was measured by 3 rating scales: HAM-D, PHQ-9, GAD-7.

The Average Starting Point in these patients for each of these scales were:

27.8 (HAM-D)

16.3 (PHQ-9)

11.2 (GAD-7)

The Average Finishing Scores were:

9.3 (HAM-D)

7.7 (PHQ-9)

5.2 (GAD-7)

The results show that TMS significantly reduced both depression and anxiety, moving patients from more severe symptoms to much milder ones, showcasing the benefits of TMS for improving mental health.

Scoring Details

HAM-D

  • Scores 0-7: Normal
  • Scores 8-16: Mild Depression
  • Scores 17-23: Moderate Depression
  • Scores 24 and above: Severe Depression

PHQ-9

  • Scores 0-4: Minimal Depression
  • Scores 5-9: Mild Depression
  • Scores 10-14: Moderate Depression
  • Scores 15-19: Moderately Severe Depression
  • Scores 20-27: Severe Depression

GAD-7

  • Scores 0-4: Minimal Anxiety
  • Scores 5-9: Mild Anxiety
  • Scores 10-14: Moderate Anxiety
  • Scores 15 and above: Severe Anxiety

Is TMS therapy right for you?

Non-drug and FDA-cleared

Non-invasive with no drug-related side effects.

Fits into your existing treatment

Can be stand-alone treatment or along with your existing medication.

Covered by most insurance

We handle the paperwork.

Zero downtime

Drive yourself to and from treatments. Get back to your day right away, including work or school.

Our Location

*Inquire about additional availability (we see patients after hours!)

Meet Dr. Caleb Whitenack

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Dr. Whitenack received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Texas Medical School at Houston. After medical school, he completed his adult psychiatry residency at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, NC. During the last year of training, he was appointed Chief Resident over the large residency program. Dr. Whitenack specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of women’s mental health issues, ADD/ADHD, panic attacks, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder. He utilizes TMS treatment for depression. When not working, Caleb, originally from Denver, CO, enjoys the mountains, snowboarding, good food, homebrewing beer and traveling with his family.

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What Our Patients Say

Hear from our patients about how Animo Sano Psychiatry has made a significant difference in their lives. Our commitment to quality care reflects in their stories of recovery and hope.

Dr. Stefanie is an empathetic and compassionate provider. I am so fortunate to have found her.
I like that they believed me when I said I had adhd
I nominate Animo Sano Psychiatry to anyone trying to better themselves within their day to day lives. High thanks to Nicole Miller and Team!
They are awesome!! Would highly recommend JAMILAH BRODERICK, she was very professional, quick to find a solution to my problems and was very nonjudgmental and understanding of me. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a doctors that offers telehealth!!
Nicole Miller is wonderful. Thorough, easily approachable, caring.
Telehealth mental health visits are a game-changer for patient availability/ease of access. Simple to connect and timely communication with Animo Sano Psych is effortless.
Sydney is very compassionate, understanding, and really has the best interests of her patients. Definitely recommend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? We have answers. Browse through our FAQ section to learn more about our psychiatry and behavioral health services, your first visit, and what to expect.

TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It’s primarily used to treat depression in patients who haven’t responded to traditional therapies.

TMS is generally considered a safe procedure. The most common side effects are mild and can include headache, scalp discomfort at the treatment site, and lightheadedness. However, it’s always important to discuss any potential risks or side effects with your healthcare provider.

The standard TMS protocol is 36 treatment sessions. Typically, patients undergo TMS treatment daily Monday-Friday for 6 weeks and then taper the last 6 treatments over the following 3 weeks.

TMS is only FDA-approved for the treatment of depression and OCD. Patients with bipolar, seizures, or alcoholism are not currently recommended to receive TMS treatment.

Although it is possible to see something in the first week, most patients start noticing a change in their mood during the second week of treatment. However, sometimes it takes longer to notice change.

Yes! If you have had benefit from TMS in the past you can generally do another round of TMS. We would proceed as if you were a new patient and get the insurance to cover the second or third round of treatment.

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TMS works by delivering repetitive magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain that are known to be underactive in depression. These magnetic pulses stimulate nerve cells, which can lead to a reduction in depression symptoms over time and increase mood regulation.

MDD since 2013, Anxious-Depression since 2021, OCD since 2018, smoking cessation since 2020 (we are not able to treat smoking cessation at ASP). Recently approved as first-line depression treatment for ages 15-17 year olds.

A typical TMS session lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. The exact duration might vary depending on the specific treatment protocol recommended by your healthcare provider.

Most patients continue their antidepressant medications during TMS treatment, while others might reduce or stop their medication under the guidance of their healthcare provider. It’s essential to work closely with your medication provider and TMS doctor to determine the best treatment plan for you.

You will feel a tapping sensation on the left side of your head that should not be painful. After a few sessions, the sensation becomes very tolerable.

Since TMS is encouraging better brain health, the benefits can be longstanding.

We use the NeuroStar TMS Therapy system. The NeuroStar TMS Therapy system is the first TMS device to be cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of major depression.
The NeuroStar TMS Therapy system is also the first TMS device to have been evaluated in a large, multicenter, controlled clinical trial, as well as the only TMS system with the durability of its effects over 12 months established.

Advice and Insights from Animo Sano Psychiatry

  • TMS for Depression

    The Benefits of TMS Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression

    • August 21, 2024
    • 5 Minutes
TMS Intake Request

Start Your Treatment Journey Today

Animo Sano is here to help you navigate your emotional and mental wellbeing as a partner with you. While reaching out for help can be difficult, you don’t have to feel this way any longer. Contact Animo Sano today to speak with our team of medical professionals. Let’s take your first step towards recovery, together.

Call Now TMS Intake Request