Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
A non-invasive, non-medication treatment for depression
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Treatment is non-invasive and does not require anesthesia or sedation.
Dr. Diggins provides TMS treatment using the NeuroStar Advanced Therapy system through Pathways TMS, a specialized TMS practice located in the same Hadley office as Pioneer Valley Psychiatry.
TMS for Depression
TMS may be considered for patients with Major Depressive Disorder who have not experienced sufficient improvement with antidepressant medication or who have had difficulty tolerating medication.
Unlike medications, which circulate throughout the body, TMS delivers treatment directly to targeted areas of the brain. Patients remain awake during treatment and can return to their usual activities afterward.
TMS for Adolescents
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is FDA-cleared as an adjunct treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in adolescents ages 15–21.
For some adolescents with depression, TMS may provide an additional treatment option when medication and psychotherapy have not provided sufficient improvement.
As a child and adolescent psychiatrist, Dr. Diggins can consider TMS within the broader context of an adolescent's psychiatric treatment rather than as an isolated procedure.
Pathways TMS
TMS services are provided through Pathways TMS, a separate practice founded by Dr. Diggins and located in the same office as Pioneer Valley Psychiatry.
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For information about TMS evaluation, treatment, insurance coverage, what to expect during treatment, and whether TMS may be appropriate for you or your child, please visit the Pathways TMS website.