Why TMS Works Even When Medications Don’t

Understanding Your Mental Health Care Options If you’re exploring treatment for depression, anxiety, or ongoing mental health symptoms, you may feel overwhelmed by the number of options available. Many people ask: “Should I try therapy, medication, TMS, Spravato, or genetic testing - and how do I know what’s right for me?” The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Each approach works differently, and the best plan often depends on your history, symptoms, and how you’ve responded to treatment in the past. Below is a clear comparison of four commonly used approaches: Counseling (therapy), TMS therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and genetic testing.

If you’ve searched “TMS therapy near me” in Washington, you’re probably looking for two things: a treatment that actually works, and clear answers about what to expect. This guide covers what TMS is, who it’s for, how long it takes, what results can look like, and how it compares to medication-based options like Spravato (esketamine)—with a local focus on the South Sound / Greater Puget Sound area. Creative Wellness TMS offers TMS in Olympia, University Place, and Yelm , serving nearby communities across the region. What Is TMS Therapy? Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive outpatient treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It does not circulate through the body the way medications do, and sessions are short with no downtime. Who Is TMS For? TMS is most commonly used for treatment-resistant depression and is also FDA-approved for OCD, with some clinics using it off-label for symptoms related to anxiety and other conditions, depending on clinical judgment and fit. TMS is often a great next step if: You’ve tried therapy and/or medications and still feel stuck Medications caused side effects you couldn’t tolerate You want a non-medication treatment option You need a treatment you can do and still keep up with work/school/family What the TMS Treatment Timeline Looks Like A typical TMS course is: 1 session per day 5 days per week for about 4–6 weeks with sessions lasting about 20 minutes (varies by protocol) Most people drive themselves to/from appointments and return to normal activities right after. When Do People Start Feeling Better? Everyone’s timeline is different, but many patients notice early changes (sleep, energy, motivation) within the first few weeks, with improvement building over the full course. The key is consistency-TMS tends to be cumulative. How Long Do TMS Results Last? This is one of the most common questions. Many people maintain improvement for months or longer, and some choose booster sessions or a short repeat course later if symptoms return. (Your clinician can help plan relapse prevention based on your history and risk factors.)

If you’re considering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), one of the most common questions is: “What happens after treatment ends - and how long do results actually last?” It’s an important question. At Creative Wellness TMS, we believe patients should understand not only how TMS works , but also what life can look like after treatment, including maintenance options and relapse prevention. Do TMS Results Last? For many patients, yes - TMS results are long-lasting. Clinical studies and real-world outcomes demonstrate that a substantial percentage of patients who respond to TMS experience relief that lasts for months to years after completing a full course. Because TMS works by strengthening and retraining neural pathways, improvements are often more durable than medication alone. What Happens Immediately After TMS Ends? After completing a standard TMS course (typically 4–6 weeks): No tapering is required There are no withdrawal effects Patients return to normal routines immediately Some people notice continued improvement even after their final session as the brain continues to adapt. Will I Need Maintenance TMS? Not everyone needs maintenance - but some people benefit from it. Maintenance TMS may be helpful if: You’ve had multiple depressive episodes Stressors return or increase Symptoms slowly begin to reappear You’ve had limited success with medications in the past Maintenance may involve: Occasional “booster” sessions Short repeat treatment courses Early intervention at the first signs of relapse Your care team will help determine what’s appropriate for you.

TMS, Spravato, and Medications Compared When you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, or mood symptoms, one of the most common - and understandable - questions is: “How long will it take before I start to feel better?”  The answer depends on the type of treatment, your personal history, and how your brain responds. Below, we break down realistic timelines for TMS therapy, Spravato (esketamine), and traditional antidepressant medications, so you know what to expect.

Does Insurance cover TMS in Washington?

Is TMS Therapy Safe?

What Is TMS Therapy?

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