What Actually Happens During a TMS Consultation?
A good consultation should answer a bigger question than “Do you want TMS?” It should help determine what you are experiencing and which treatment options may be appropriate.
Want to know if SAINT® is right for you?
Tell us about your treatment history and symptoms. A consultation is an evaluation, not a commitment — and it starts with your story.
First, We Want to Understand What Changed
The conversation often begins with what changed, when it started, and how it is affecting your daily life. Understanding onset and functional change helps frame the rest of the evaluation.
We Look Beyond a Depression Score
Mood
How your mood has changed and how it feels day to day.
Anxiety
Worry, racing thoughts, and physical tension.
Sleep
Patterns of rest, disruption, and exhaustion.
Trauma
Any trauma history relevant to the picture.
Concentration
Focus, memory, and follow-through.
Appetite
Changes in eating and energy.
Energy
Fatigue and motivation.
Daily Functioning
How symptoms affect work, home, and relationships.
Treatment History
What you've tried and how it went.
Your Treatment History Matters
The evaluation may include psychiatric medications, your response, side effects, therapy, previous TMS, and hospitalization history where relevant.
You will not be asked to alter medications. Medication decisions are made with your prescribing provider.
Curious whether you'd qualify?
If you've tried medication and you're still not yourself, you may be a candidate for SAINT®. Our team will give you a straight answer.
Safety Comes Before Treatment
Clinical screening considers contraindications and safety factors, such as seizure history and implanted devices, before any treatment is discussed. Safety is the first priority.
Then We Discuss Appropriate Options
Possibilities may include:
- Standard TMS
- Accelerated TMS
- Other neuromodulation approaches available through the practice
- Coordination with your therapist
- Coordination with your prescribing psychiatrist
- Other recommendations
Not every option is appropriate for every person. The goal is to find what fits your situation.
Insurance and Next Steps
Benefits may be checked, prior authorization may be required, coverage differs by plan, and approval is not guaranteed. Our team can help verify your benefits and explain the next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a TMS consultation?
What should I bring?
Do I need my medication list?
Can a family member attend?
Does a consultation mean I have to start treatment?
Will you check my insurance?
Can I receive accelerated TMS?
What if another treatment is more appropriate?
Ready to talk to someone?
The hardest part is usually the first phone call. Everything after that is a series of small, defined steps.
A Consultation Is a Conversation, Not a Commitment
You don't need to know which treatment you want before reaching out. Start with understanding what's happening and what options may be appropriate.