For some people living with depression, the usual treatments don’t bring the relief they’re hoping for. And when medication, therapy, or both haven’t worked well enough, it’s easy to feel like you’re out of options. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation — or TMS — offers another pathway that may be worth considering.
In this guide, we look at who TMS might be suitable for, what the treatment involves, and how to know if it’s something worth exploring with your treating psychiatrist.
How TMS Works
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates specific areas of the brain using magnetic pulses. The aim is to help “reset” brain activity in areas that aren’t functioning as they should, especially those involved in regulating mood.
TMS is typically used for major depressive disorder (MDD) when other treatments haven’t been effective. It’s considered for people who’ve tried two or more antidepressants without success. TMS has also been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) for use in Australia.
Who’s a Good Candidate For TMS?
TMS may be suitable for people who:
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD).
- Haven’t responded to at least two different antidepressants.
- Prefer a non-medication treatment or have experienced side effects from medication.
- Are looking for a safe and structured therapy option.
Some people may also consider TMS when therapy alone hasn’t led to the desired improvement or when they’re unable to continue with medication for medical reasons.
When TMS Might Not Be The Right Option
While TMS is safe for many, it’s not appropriate for everyone. It may not be recommended if you:
- Have a history of uncontrolled seizures or epilepsy.
- Have metal implants in or near your head (such as cochlear implants).
Before starting TMS, your treating psychiatrist will assess your health history and current medications to make sure the treatment is right for you.
If you’re currently working with a psychiatrist for anxiety or depression, they can talk through whether TMS might form part of your treatment plan.
What Happens During A TMS Assessment?
If your psychiatrist thinks you could benefit from TMS, they’ll schedule an assessment. This involves:
- A detailed conversation about your medical and mental health history.
- A review of the treatments you’ve already tried.
- A discussion of how your symptoms have been affecting your day-to-day life.
You’ll also have a chance to ask questions and learn more about what TMS sessions are like. If you and your psychiatrist decide to proceed, they’ll develop a personalised treatment plan.
What To Expect During Treatment
TMS sessions are done while you’re awake. There’s no sedation or recovery time. You sit in a chair, and a coil is placed against your scalp. The machine sends out repetitive magnetic pulses, targeting areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
Most sessions take between 20 and 40 minutes, and treatment is usually done five days a week for four to six weeks. You can typically return to your day straight after.
If you’ve previously spoken to a depression psychiatrist about other options and felt unsure, TMS might offer an approach that feels more manageable or better suited to your needs.
Is TMS Covered By Medicare?
TMS is covered on the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) for outpatient care. If you suffer from treatment-resistant Depression and have not had prior TMS Treatments.
However, some inpatient programs — such as those delivered in private hospitals — may offer rebates. Depending on your policy, a few private health insurers may cover part of the cost. It’s always best to ask your psychiatrist or treatment centre for specific details.
Who Provides TMS In Australia?
TMS must be delivered by trained psychiatrists or clinics accredited to offer the service. At Mind Oasis, we support people across Australia, including access to psychiatrists in Australia through both in-person and telehealth services. If you want to learn whether TMS suits you, we can help you explore that pathway.
Many of our patients first speak with a psychiatrist or one of our telehealth professionals before being referred for TMS assessment. We also offer support for ADHD, depression, anxiety and more, including care from a telehealth ADHD psychiatrist if you’re managing co-occurring concerns.
Considering TMS? Here’s What To Keep In Mind
TMS isn’t a first-line treatment, and it won’t be the right fit for everyone. But it may be worth a closer look if you’ve tried multiple treatments and still feel stuck. People who are often considered good candidates are those with moderate to severe depression who haven’t seen meaningful improvements with other approaches.
Working closely with a psychiatrist ensures that any treatment — including TMS — is safe, considered, and tailored to your situation.
A New Path Forward — Is It Time To Consider TMS?
If you’ve been living with depression and nothing so far has helped, it might be time to talk about what comes next. TMS could offer a different path that doesn’t rely on medication but is backed by science and clinical experience.
At Mind Oasis, we support people at all stages of their mental health journey. If you’re ready to explore your options, including TMS, we’re here to help you take that next step carefully and clearly.