Can TMS Therapy Affect Multiple Areas of the Brain?

2/28/2025

TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy is a targeted, noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Many individuals struggling with mood disorders have found success with TMS therapy, especially when other treatment options have not been effective. This treatment focuses only on the brain regions involved in mood regulation, ensuring a safe and precise approach without impacting other areas. At Serenity Mental Health Centers in Jacksonville, FL, we prioritize patient education and safety, providing the information and support needed to make informed decisions about mental health care. To learn more about TMS therapy or determine if it's right for you, contact our Jacksonville location to schedule a consultation.

What is TMS therapy used for?

TMS therapy is an effective, noninvasive treatment for mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and depression. At Serenity, we utilize TMS therapy to offer patients a safe and innovative approach to managing their mental health, providing a new path toward healing and overall well-being.

How is the brain affected by TMS therapy?

TMS therapy works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation, particularly the prefrontal cortex. This region plays a crucial role in managing emotions, decision-making, and overall mental health. By targeting these areas, TMS therapy helps activate neural activity, leading to improvements in mood and cognitive function. For individuals struggling with conditions like depression or anxiety, TMS can restore balance by stimulating underactive regions or calming overactive ones. This noninvasive approach provides relief without impacting other areas of the brain, making it a safe and effective treatment option.

Are there permanent side effects of TMS?

One of the biggest benefits of TMS therapy is that it has minimal side effects, and those that do occur are usually temporary. Common side effects of TMS therapy include:

  • Mild discomfort at the treatment site
  • Headache
  • Scalp sensitivity

These symptoms typically subside shortly after the session. Because TMS therapy is noninvasive and does not involve medication, the risk of long-term side effects is extremely low. Most patients tolerate the treatment well and can return to their normal activities immediately after each session.

How does TMS compare to other treatments?

TMS therapy offers a more precise approach than other treatments like medication. While medications can affect multiple areas of the brain and body — often causing side effects such as drowsiness, weight gain, or digestive issues — TMS therapy directly targets the brain regions responsible for mood regulation. This focused stimulation provides a controlled and effective treatment option.

For individuals who have not found relief with medication or struggle with its side effects, TMS therapy serves as a promising alternative, delivering results without the same risks.

Target mood regulation

TMS therapy is a noninvasive, targeted treatment that stimulates specific areas of the brain to help relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we create personalized TMS therapy plans to ensure each patient receives the highest level of care. If you're considering TMS therapy as a treatment option, contact our Jacksonville, FL office to learn more about its benefits and how it could support your mental health journey.

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*All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.