TMS
Healthy Mind Psychiatry
Board-Certified Psychiatrist located in Valencia, CA
If your depression symptoms haven’t improved with traditional medications or therapy, Healthy Mind Psychiatry offers hope through transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Board-certified psychiatrist Ananya Sreepathi, MD, provides this noninvasive, FDA-approved treatment in a comfortable office setting in the Valencia neighborhood of Santa Clarita, California. TMS can help re-energize brain activity linked to mood regulation, giving you a fresh path toward better mental health. To learn more, call the office or request an appointment online.
What is TMS?
TMS is a noninvasive brain stimulation therapy that uses precisely targeted magnetic pulses to activate nerve cells in areas of the brain involved in mood regulation—most often the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.
This stimulation helps “retrain” underactive brain regions, improving communication between networks that affect mood, emotion, and cognitive function. Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS does not require anesthesia, does not induce seizures, and has no significant impact on memory.
Why should I consider TMS?
Dr. Sreepathi may recommend TMS if you:
- Have major depressive disorder that hasn’t improved with antidepressants or psychotherapy
- Experience side effects from medications that make long-term use difficult
- Prefer a non-drug treatment approach
- Are seeking a therapy that can be combined with other treatments for greater results
TMS has been clinically proven to help reduce depressive symptoms in individuals with treatment-resistant depression, with many patients experiencing improved mood, energy, and daily functioning.
What can I expect during a TMS session?
A typical TMS session is comfortable and well-tolerated. You’ll sit in a reclining chair while Dr. Sreepathi positions a small coil against your scalp. The coil emits magnetic pulses that feel like gentle tapping on your head. You remain awake and alert, and you can listen to music or chat during treatment. Sessions usually last 20–40 minutes, and there’s no recovery time—you can return to work or other activities immediately afterward.
How long will I need TMS?
A standard treatment plan involves daily sessions, five days per week, for four to six weeks. Some patients may need maintenance treatments to sustain their results.
Is TMS safe?
TMS is FDA-approved for major depression and has an excellent safety profile. Side effects are generally mild and may include scalp discomfort or headache, which often improve over time.
Healthy Mind Psychiatry offers TMS in a supportive environment designed to make you feel at ease. Dr. Sreepathi will personalize your treatment plan, track your progress closely, and adjust your therapy as needed to help you achieve lasting improvement in your mental health. To learn more, request an appointment online or by phone today.