Will TMS Therapy Affect Non-Targeted Areas of My Brain?

2/28/2025

TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy is a targeted, noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Many individuals with mood disorders have found success with TMS therapy, especially when other treatments have not provided relief. This therapy is designed to focus only on the necessary brain regions without impacting other areas, making it a safe and effective option. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we are committed to patient education and safety, ensuring you have all the information you need. To learn more about TMS therapy or to see if it's right for you, contact our Fort Worth, TX office to schedule a consultation.

What is TMS therapy used for?

TMS therapy is widely used to treat mental health conditions like anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and depression. At Serenity, we offer this safe, noninvasive treatment to help patients overcome these challenges and regain a sense of well-being.

How is the brain affected by TMS therapy?

TMS therapy uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions involved in mood regulation, especially the prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain is essential for controlling emotions, decision-making, and overall mental health. By targeting these regions, TMS activates neural activity, leading to improvements in mood and cognitive function. For those with conditions like depression or anxiety, TMS helps restore balance by either stimulating underactive areas or calming overactive ones, ultimately improving brain function. This noninvasive approach provides relief while leaving other brain areas unaffected.

Are there permanent side effects of TMS?

One of the main benefits of TMS therapy is its minimal side effects, which are usually short-lived. Common side effects include:

  • Mild discomfort at the treatment site
  • Headache
  • Scalp sensitivity

These symptoms typically resolve shortly after the session. Because TMS therapy is noninvasive and doesn't involve surgery or medication, the risk of long-term side effects is very low. Most patients tolerate the treatment well and can return to their daily activities right after each session.

How does TMS compare to other treatments?

One of the key advantages of TMS therapy compared to other treatments, like medications, is its precision. Medications can affect various areas of the brain and body, often leading to side effects such as drowsiness, weight gain, or digestive issues. In contrast, TMS therapy specifically targets only the brain regions involved in mood regulation, providing a more focused and controlled approach.

For patients who haven't found relief with medications or who struggle with their side effects, TMS therapy offers a promising alternative without the same risks.

Target mood regulation

TMS therapy is a targeted, noninvasive treatment that focuses on specific areas of the brain to help alleviate symptoms of conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. At Serenity, we offer personalized TMS therapy plans tailored to each patient's unique needs to ensure the best care possible. If you're considering TMS therapy, contact our Fort Worth, TX office to learn more about how it could support your mental health journey and whether it might be the right treatment for you.

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*All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.