What to Expect

Before deciding on a course of treatment, you will be scheduled for an initial psychiatric evaluation with Dr. Tarique Perera. During the evaluation, Dr. Perera will review your symptoms and treatment history. Based on your particular needs, Dr. Perera will design an individualized treatment plan. If Dr. Perera feels TMS is an appropriate treatment option, treatment sessions can be scheduled to begin immediately. At the first treatment appointment, Dr. Perera will determine the optimal placement and strength of the magnetic field. Each subsequent treatment will last approximately 37 minutes during which time you will be awake and alert. The magnetic pulses make a clicking sound and feels like a tapping on the scalp.

After each treatment you can drive and resume your normal activity. TMS is non-invasive, meaning it does not involve surgery, and has no systemic effects. It does not require anesthesia or sedation. Typical TMS side effects are transient and mild, including irritation or discomfort at the treatment site and headache.

A usual course of treatment for depression involves sessions 5 days a week for 4-6 weeks, although this can vary depending on your response. Treatments will be administered by certified technicians six days a week. Dr. Perera and other specialists will administer treatments while evaluating your progress and your psychopharmacological needs.

If TMS treatment is not the right option for you, Dr. Perera will work with you to develop a treatment plan aimed at achieving optimal results, so that you will leave your appointment with a clear cut path to recovery.