Accelerated TMS
Accelerated TMS: A Faster Depression Treatment
We use TMS devices from both Brainsway and MagVenture in our clinics. The TMS machine used for treatment is chosen based on each patient’s individual characteristics and treatment protocol.
What is Accelerated TMS?
Accelerated TMS is a groundbreaking advancement in depression treatment that delivers the benefits of standard TMS therapy in a much shorter time. Traditional TMS treatment involves daily sessions over the course of 6 to 8 weeks to achieve its result. Accelerated TMS delivers the same therapeutic benefit in just five days.
Accelerated TMS is an FDA-approved treatment protocol that delivers more TMS sessions per day over a shorter period of time than traditional TMS. This advanced treatment protocol uses the same technology as standard TMS but allows patients to complete an entire course of therapy in just five days.
At Colorado Psychiatry Solutions, our Accelerated TMS protocol delivers five treatment sessions per day during a consecutive five day period. Accelerated TMS is similar to the SAINT TMS protocol, with the number of sessions per day reduced for patient comfort and convenience.
Should I Choose Standard TMS or Accelerated TMS?
Both standard TMS (6 to 7 week TMS treatment) and Accelerated TMS (one week treatment) are excellent depression treatments. TMS has a well-established, documented history of delivering significant relief from depression. Accelerated TMS builds upon TMS’s strengths to speed up the process and deliver a result even faster.
Both types of TMS are equally effective at alleviating symptoms of depression. Both types of TMS are FDA-approved treatments for depression. And both types of TMS are available at our TMS clinic locations in Colorado Springs and Monument.
For many patients, the decision comes down to which treatment fits better with their schedule. Standard TMS sessions can be fit into a regular work schedule. A standard work lunch break is sufficient time for a daily TMS treatment. Accelerated TMS is a more intensive treatment schedule but over a much shorter timeframe overall. For some patients, the idea of receiving the full course of treatment in one week is very appealing.
The type of TMS you choose is not the most important decision, though. The most important decision is to begin treatment and take your first steps on your journey to healing.
Why Patients Prefer Accelerated TMS for Depression Therapy
Many patients prefer Accelerated TMS over standard TMS or other depression treatment options because:
- Accelerated TMS delivers faster relief. This is probably the #1 resons patients choose Accelerated TMS – they simply want a faster result. Patients may be in a critical state and want urgent relief or they may find it fits more easily into their schedule.
- Accelerated TMS is time-efficient. People with busy schedules often find it easier to commit to one week of treatment rather than seven weeks. Accommodation can be made to work around work or school schedules in order to maintain productivity during your treatment week.
- Accelerated TMS is FDA Approved. Both standard TMS and the Accelerated TMS protocol have passed FDA clearance, meaning they have undergone rigorous testing and demonstrated through evidence-based studies that they are effective as a depression therapy. Whichever TMS protocol you choose, you can rest assured you are receiving innovative treatment that has been proven to deliver a result.
- TMS is long-lasting. Both standard TMS and Accelerated TMS deliver depression relief long after TMS sessions have finished.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Accelerated TMS?
Because of the shortened treatment time required, Accelerated TMS is an excellent option for people who want a faster result or those who would have a hard time coming in consistently for regular TMS appointments over several weeks.
In general, you may be a good candidate for Accelerated TMS if:
-
-
- You have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) or treatment-resistant depression
- You are looking for a faster and more intensive approach to therapy
- You have not experienced adequate relief from antidepressant medications
- You prefer a non-medication-based treatment option
- You are physically healthy enough to undergo multiple sessions per day over a 5-day period
- You can commit to attending five consecutive treatment days, with multiple sessions each day
-
Another consideration is service cost. Although Accelerated TMS is FDA-approved, most insurance companies have not yet approved Accelerated TMS for coverage under their health insurance plans. Accelerated TMS is an out-of-pocket expense and the cost of treatment should be considered along with factors such as time savings and shortened time to a satisfactory result.
Questions and Answers About Accelerated TMS
How long does each session take?
Each TMS session lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. With breaks between sessions, each daily treatment may take approximately 3 to 4 hours total.
Will I feel immediate results?
How quickly you begin to notice results is highly variable from patient to patient. Many patients begin to notice mood improvements while still receiving treatment or shortly after. Other patients may not notice improvement until sometime after treatment concludes. As with all depression treatments, response times vary.
Is Accelerated TMS covered by insurance?
Currently, most insurance plans cover traditional TMS but have not chosen to cover Accelerated TMS. Our patient intake team will work with you to verify insurance coverage (if any) and help you understand your alternative options, including HSA and FSA plans.
How To Get Started
To receive an evaluation for TMS treatment, simply schedule an appointment at one of our four convenient locations in Colorado Springs and Monument. You can call 719-622-6522 to speak with an intake specialist or enter your contact information in our online form.
