Noninvasive Brain Stimulation

Our center is a world leader in using TMS as treatment and for research purposes. TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses a magnetic field to stimulate a part of the brain. This magnetic field can pass through the head safely and painlessly. We use TMS to change activity in the brain and correct abnormal activities caused by an illness.

Numerous studies have shown that TMS can have a lasting positive effect on mood in people with depression. The form of TMS we use for therapy is called repetitive TMS, or rTMS. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a number of different protocols and devices for this purpose, showing it is safe and effective.

This is a noninvasive brain stimulation treatment that uses weak electrical currents applied to the head to enhance brain activity. We use tDCS as a tool in neuroscience research, as well as to assess and treat various neuropsychiatric conditions, such as mental disorders.

tDCS offers these distinct advantages:

• Easy to administer
• Inexpensive
• Noninvasive
• Painless

Therapeutic Uses for tDCS

Recent studies support a therapeutic potential of tDCS in people facing these issues:

• Chronic pain
• Cognitive rehabilitation
• Epilepsy
• Stroke recovery and rehab
• Various neuropsychiatric disorders

The FDA has not approved tDCS for any therapeutic use or treatment. Therefore, your insurance plan may not cover it.

Brain stimulation techniques such as TMS and tDCS can be applied to different brain areas with the goal of treating other conditions. Research is ongoing to determine whether these techniques are effective to treat certain kinds of chronic pain, epilepsy, schizophrenia, tinnitus and chronic motor conditions like ataxia. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved the use of TMS or tDCS for these conditions.

However, TMS and tDCS can sometimes be used as "off-label" treatments when deemed clinically appropriate, though they are considered investigational (not proven). As such, for any of these treatment indications, we do a complete neurological evaluation with all prospective patients to ensure there are no safety contraindications, and acquire informed consent to ensure that all patients are aware that the treatments are considered off-label.

Our team of TMS specialists will work with you and your referring doctor to design and implement a TMS treatment plan. Your TMS team will include neurologists as well as psychiatrists and other specialists. We’ll collaborate to develop a course of therapy that meets your specific needs.

Our care team takes an individualized approach to your treatment. We will create a treatment plan based on your condition, symptoms, health history and other factors. We may recommend additional services — such as neurological rehabilitation — to help you reach your treatment goals.