What is rTMS treatment for Depression and OCD?

RTMS is short for repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. RTMS is an evidence based treatment (level A) for depression, making it a reliable alternative for medication. TMS as a treatment for OCD also shows promising results.

During a rTMS treatment the brain is exposed to magnetical pulses. The stimulation of the brain will reduce the symptoms of depression.

RTMS treatment is done additionally and during a psychological session. The patient will be comfortably sitting, or laying down on a sofa, or chair. The rTMS treatment is performed by a magnetic coil that is placed above the head. The coil is positioned on the correct location and will start to administer short magnetic pulses. The feeling is often described as if someone taps your head with a pencil: not painful, but not pleasant either. The patient does not need to be hospitalized.

How will the brain react to these magnetic pulses?

The brain reacts to these magnetic pulses, and after around 20 sessions the client usually notices the effects. Common thought patterns have become more rational rather than emotional. This makes the client more receptive to for example Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, and other forms of therapy. 60 percent of the people suffering from (Major) Depression and 50 percent of the people with OCD, treated with TMS experience a significant reduction of the complaints.