How TMS Works: A Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Session

If you’re starting Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, you’re likely feeling a mix of curiosity and nerves. That’s completely normal—TMS is a unique treatment, especially if you’ve never experienced brain stimulation therapy before.

This guide is designed to walk you through your first session so you’ll know exactly what to expect, from the moment you arrive to when you leave. Understanding the process can help you feel more at ease and ready to begin this important step in your mental health journey.

What Is TMS?

TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It’s an FDA-approved, non-invasive therapy used to treat depression—especially when medication hasn’t been effective. It works by using magnetic pulses to activate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. There’s no medication involved, no sedation, and no downtime.

Before Your First Session

You don’t need to make any big changes before your first visit. Just come as you are. Here's how to prepare:

• Eat and hydrate as usual

• Take your prescribed medications unless directed otherwise

• Dress comfortably (you’ll be seated for about  15 minutes)

• Bring any questions you may have—your care team is here to help

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Step 1: Welcome and Check-In

When you arrive, a member of the TMS team will greet you and help you check in. You’ll review any updates to your health history and complete a brief mood or symptom assessment. This is also a great time to ask questions or share any concerns.

Step 2: Motor Threshold Mapping

Before your first  treatment begins, we’ll complete a short “mapping” session to personalize your TMS settings.

• A small magnetic coil will be placed lightly against your scalp.

• The provider will deliver brief magnetic pulses to locate the part of your brain that moves your fingers and to measure your  motor threshold—this is the level of stimulation needed to produce a small twitch in your hand or fingers.

• This process helps us calibrate the machine to ensure you receive just the right level of stimulation for your brain.

This step is painless, and it only takes a few minutes.

Step 3: First Treatment Session

Once mapping is complete, your first full session begins. Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll sit in a reclined chair with the TMS coil positioned over the targeted area of your brain.

• You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your scalp during the session. Most people adjust to this quickly.

• The session will last anywhere from 3 to 15  minutes, depending on the treatment protocol prescribed for you.

You can listen to music, watch TV, close your eyes, or simply relax during treatment. Some patients bring headphones, a book, or a stress ball. You can bring a friend or relative.

Step 4: After the Session

Once the session is complete, you’re free to continue your day as usual. There’s no recovery time needed, and most people drive themselves home or return to work right afterward.

You might feel mild scalp sensitivity or a light headache afterward—both are common and typically resolve quickly.

Step 5: Staying on Track

TMS is a cumulative treatment, meaning results build over time. You’ll typically have sessions five days a week for six weeks. Your care team will regularly monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.

Final Thoughts

Starting something new can be intimidating, but TMS is designed to be safe, comfortable, and effective. Many patients report that once they begin treatment, they’re surprised by how simple and non-invasive the experience really is.

If you’re preparing for your first session, take a deep breath—you’re in good hands. Your journey with TMS is just beginning, and each session is a step toward feeling better.

Schedule your Appointment Today!