Recent News

03 Jan Finding the Right TMS Provider: A Detailed Approach by Southern California TMS Center

Choosing the right TMS provider is crucial as a partner in your mental health improvement. At Southern California TMS Center, we understand that every individual’s needs are unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work in this mental health journey. This guide is designed to help you find the right TMS provider for you, ensuring that your treatment is as effective and positive as possible.

Understanding TMS Therapy

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a groundbreaking and non-invasive treatment option that has revolutionized the approach to managing various mental health disorders, particularly Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). This innovative treatment uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, providing relief for those who have not responded to traditional treatment methods.

TMS therapy operates on the principle of magnetic induction. During a TMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed near the patient’s scalp, near the forehead. The device then generates short magnetic pulses, which pass through the skull and into the brain. This process stimulates nerve cells in the region of the brain responsible for mood control and depression, thereby helping to alleviate symptoms.

One of the key benefits of TMS therapy is its non-invasiveness, unlike other treatment options like electroconvulsive therapy, TMS does not require sedation or anesthesia, and patients remain awake and alert during the session. This aspect significantly reduces the treatment’s risk and allows patients to resume their normal activities immediately after each session.

Furthermore, TMS therapy is well-tolerated by most patients. The most common side effect is a mild to moderate headache during or after treatment, which usually subsides quickly. Unlike many antidepressants, TMS does not cause systemic side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or drowsiness.

At Southern California TMS Center, our approach to TMS therapy is rooted in a deep understanding of its mechanisms of action and potential benefits. Our specialists are trained in the latest TMS techniques, ensuring each patient receives the most effective treatment tailored to their specific condition. By choosing TMS therapy at our center, patients can expect a treatment experience that is not only effective but also personalized, compassionate, and attuned to their individual needs.

Criteria for Choosing a TMS Provider

When searching for a TMS provider, consider the following:

• Expertise and Experience: Look for a provider with a strong background in mental health care and specific training in TMS therapy. Our team at Southern California TMS Center comprises seasoned professionals with years of experience in delivering TMS treatment.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Effective TMS therapy requires a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. We assess each patient’s unique situation to develop a customized treatment strategy.
• Quality of Equipment: The type of TMS equipment used can affect the outcome of your treatment. Our centers are equipped with state-of-the-art NeuroStar TMS technology to ensure the highest efficacy.
• Supportive Environment: A supportive and understanding environment is key to successful treatment. Our staff at Southern California TMS Center is dedicated to providing a warm, welcoming, and supportive atmosphere.
• Insurance and Cost Considerations: Understanding insurance coverage and possible costs is vital. We offer comprehensive guidance on insurance matters and transparent cost information.

Evaluating a TMS Provider’s Reputation

Assessing the reputation of a TMS provider is essential in ensuring you receive the best possible care. Reputation can be a reflection of the provider’s expertise, patient satisfaction, and the overall quality of care. When evaluating a TMS provider, consider the following factors:

• Patient Testimonials and Reviews: Look for feedback from former patients. Positive experiences, particularly regarding the provider’s approach to treatment and patient care, can be a strong indicator of their competence and reliability. Southern California TMS Center values patient feedback and we are proud of our testimonials reflecting our commitment to excellence in mental health care.
• Professional Recognition and Affiliations: Check if the provider is recognized by reputable medical associations or has received any awards or distinctions in the field of mental health and TMS therapy. Such recognition often indicates a high standard of care and a commitment to staying abreast of advancements in the field. Our Medical Director, Dr. Todd Hutton, is not only an international expert in the field of TMS, but previously was the Clinical TMS Society president.
• Years of Experience: Experience is crucial in TMS therapy. A provider with a long history in the field is likely to have a deeper understanding of the nuances of TMS treatment. At Southern California TMS Center, our team’s extensive experience ensures a profound understanding of both the technical and personal aspects of TMS therapy.
• Success Rates and Outcomes: Inquire about the provider’s success rates and treatment outcomes. Reliable providers should be transparent about their results and the effectiveness of their treatments. We at Southern California TMS Center maintain an open dialogue about our success rates, reflecting our confidence in our treatment protocols and outcomes.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision about your TMS provider, ensuring a partnership that is conducive to your mental health journey.

Questions to Ask Your TMS Provider

Before starting treatment, it’s important to ask your TMS provider questions such as:

• What is your experience with TMS therapy?
• How do you tailor the treatment to individual needs?
• What kind of support can I expect during the treatment process?
• Can you provide information on success rates and patient testimonials?
• How do you handle insurance and cost considerations?

Selecting the ideal TMS provider is a critical decision on your path to mental wellness. At Southern California TMS Center, we embody the essence of personalized, empathetic, and expert care. Our dedicated team ensures that each patient receives a treatment plan that is meticulously tailored to their individual needs, backed by the latest technology and informed by years of specialized experience. By choosing us, you’re not just selecting a TMS provider; you’re partnering with a team deeply invested in your journey towards healing and improved mental health. Reach out to us, and take the first step in transforming your life with a trusted and compassionate TMS provider.

19 Dec Understanding Insurance Coverage for TMS Therapy at Southern California TMS Center

Navigating insurance coverage for new treatments can be challenging. We aim to clarify your questions regarding insurance and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, detailing the prerequisites for coverage as well as information about specific insurers such as Medicare, Medicaid, and Kaiser.

Is TMS Covered by Insurance?

In most cases, yes, TMS is covered by insurance. However, the specifics are important. Insurance companies typically only cover treatments deemed medically necessary. While policies vary across insurers, these are the common criteria for TMS therapy coverage:

* A diagnosis of moderate-to-severe Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) (Note: TMS may not be covered by insurance for conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, tinnitus, migraines, or chronic pain. But these are conditions that we can further explore with you.)

* Proof that at least two (sometimes up to four) depression medications have been ineffective.

* An unsuccessful attempt at talk therapy known to benefit depression.

Different insurance companies have additional requirements for coverage. And Southern California TMS Center has a team that is knowledgeable in the various criteria. We can help you determine what requirements are needed with your particular insurer.

Does Medicare Cover TMS Therapy?

Generally, yes, but coverage can vary based on your specific Medicare or Medicaid plan. Medicare may cover 80% of TMS treatment costs after meeting all requirements, including the annual deductible. You may be responsible for the remaining 20% of costs and monthly premiums. Southern California TMS Center locations accept Medicare on a case by case basis, depending on the specific plan.

MediCal / Medi-Medi Insurance and TMS Therapy

MediCal, California’s Medicaid program, does not currently provide coverage for TMS therapy

Does Kaiser Cover TMS Therapy?

Southern California TMS Center is an “in network” center with Kaiser. If Kaiser is your primary insurance plan, please contact your Kaiser provider or psychiatrist and request more information to see if TMS Therapy may be right for you. .

How do you find out if TMS Therapy is covered by insurance for you?

While the final decision lies with the insurance company, we can help determine your TMS Therapy benefits.

Document Your Treatment History and Medication Trials.

Keep detailed records of your treatment attempts, especially if you’ve discontinued medications due to side effects. Honest communication with your doctors about your progress is crucial for accurate documentation.

Know who is your primary and who is your secondary insurance.

A coordination of your benefits is key to not having a surprise later. If you have multiple insurance companies as your coverage, make sure to communicate with our team who is primary and who is secondary.

Call SoCal TMS and let us help you navigate the insurance process

We help all of our patients through the insurance process. So let us help you too.

Insurance and TMS: Guidance for Peace of Mind

So, is TMS covered by insurance? Generally, yes. At Southern California TMS Center, we offer free consultations so we can help you assess your coverage and allay any insurance concerns. Our Care Team will assist you throughout the TMS therapy process, addressing any questions and helping you understand the intricacies of insurance coverage.

With proper research and planning, you can embark on your TMS treatment journey, paving the way for peace of mind knowing your care is covered.

12 Dec Easily Locate “TMS Therapy Near Me” with Southern California TMS Center

Struggling with mental health challenges and in search of a non-invasive, non-medication effective depression treatment? Southern California TMS Center is your premier provider for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy. If “TMS Therapy Near Me” is what you’re typing into your search bar, you’ll be delighted to know we have several convenient locations throughout Southern California. Each of our TMS therapy centers is easily accessible via major highways and many have ample free parking.

We’re here to guide you through everything from finding a TMS therapy center near you to understanding insurance and cost aspects. Let’s embark on a path to better mental health with TMS therapy. Scroll down to discover the Southern California TMS Center nearest you.

Locations

Will Insurance Cover “TMS Therapy Near Me”?

No need to cross state lines for a TMS clinic that accepts your insurance. Southern California TMS Center works with most major insurance carriers, including but not limited to United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Shield, Kaiser, and more. Insurance navigation can be complex, but our knowledgeable staff is here to assist. Typically, insurers require evidence of trying at least two antidepressants without success before covering TMS therapy. Don’t let insurance worries deter you; contact us for payment inquiries or take our super-quick TMS Eligibility Quiz.

Why Opt for Southern California TMS Center?

As a leading provider of TMS Therapy in Southern California, boasting over 175,000 successful treatments, our goal is to renew hope and enhance lives. We’re committed to pioneering the latest in treatments for clinical depression and other mental health disorders. Our approach prioritizes compassionate care and excellence, always putting patient needs first. Upholding the utmost standards in clinical care, ethics, and respect, our team includes dedicated TMS technicians and experts, ensuring you receive the highest level of care.

Is TMS Therapy the Answer to Your Depression?

If Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has been a long-standing battle for you, TMS therapy might be what you need. A significant number of individuals with depression find traditional treatments like medications or psychotherapy inadequate. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) offers a novel, non-pharmaceutical approach to treating depression. It’s non-invasive, drug-free, and can be integrated with your current medications. While not every person with MDD is an ideal candidate for TMS, you can discover your suitability for this FDA-approved therapy by taking our complimentary TMS Eligibility Quiz.

Questions About “TMS Treatment Near Me”?

If your current depression treatment isn’t providing sufficient relief, or if you’ve yet to find a successful treatment, our specialists are here to help. This innovative, non-invasive therapy could be your gateway to a life free from depression’s burdens. We invite you to a complimentary phone consultation to learn more about TMS therapy at Southern California TMS Center.

Accessible TMS Treatment Centers in Southern California

With multiple Southern California TMS Therapy clinics strategically located and plans for further expansion, access to TMS Therapy is growing. Our team specializes in TMS treatments, leading the industry in expertise and care standards. Prioritizing clinical excellence, respect, and ethics, we strive to provide the best patient experience. Find your nearest Southern California TMS Therapy clinic by exploring our location options above.

Experience TMS Treatment with Southern California TMS Center

As an In-Network provider with most insurance plans, including major carriers like Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, and more, we make it easy to get the help you need with the coverage you have. Reach out today to begin your journey towards mental wellness.

23 Oct Dr Todd Hutton published in Brain Stimulation, premier journal in field of neuromodulation!

Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of SoCal TMS, has been published again in Brain Stimulation, the premier journal in the field of neuromodulation. Dr Hutton was the lead author on “Dosing transcranial magnetic stimulation in major depressive disorder: Relations between number of treatment sessions and effectiveness in a large patient registry“

Highlights

You can click on this link to see a list of all of Dr Hutton’s publications.

21 Oct Dr Todd Hutton interview: “5 Things We Need To Do To Improve US Healthcare”

Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of SoCal TMS, was recently interviewed by Authority Magazine, as part of their interview series called “5 Things We Must Do To Improve the US Healthcare System“.  Selected quotes:

“The key is staying well-informed about the latest research and utilizing innovative treatments. My patients trust me to address their depression using advanced TMS therapies like NeuroStar. This non-drug treatment is backed by the world’s largest depression Outcomes Registry, featuring the most extensive clinical dataset among all TMS systems for depression.”

“Finally, I’d like to emphasize the importance of increasing the availability of mental health care. Optimal health cannot be achieved without addressing mental well-being, and we’ve come to understand that when mental illnesses are left untreated, they contribute to heightened physical health issues, resulting in greater expenses within the system. The burdens of mental illness are tremendous, and we have not given it the priority that patients deserve.”

“Depression’s prevalence is staggering; there’s now even more than a 20% lifetime chance of having it as the numbers seem to keep rising. This means that more than one in five people will grapple with depression at some point. If it doesn’t affect you at some point, it will affect someone close to you. … I strongly advocate creating a movement to spread awareness about depression and available treatments. Depression often conceals itself, with people masking their suffering beneath a seemingly normal exterior. As we discovered from the NeuroStar Depression Barometer, nearly half of people suffering from depression wait a year or longer from the onset of symptoms to seek treatment. We can learn from the story of Anthony Bourdain, who appeared to have it all going on, leading a life filled with travel and adventure, but still died from suicide. This underscores the need to understand and treat the invisible struggles so many people face.”

14 Sep SoCal TMS Featured on Fox 11 News for Suicide Prevention Week

To kick off National Suicide Prevention/Awareness Week, Hal Eisner of Fox 11 News In Depth conducted an on-air interview with Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of Southern California TMS Center, about the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation in treating patients with depression symptoms.

The segment aired Sunday, September 10th, the official start to Suicide Prevention Week. After discussing the impact of the 988 Suicide Hotline with crisis care specialists, Hal brought Dr. Hutton on to talk about how TMS therapy works, its effectiveness, and how it compares to drug treatments..

The interview also featured testimony from one of Dr. Hutton’s patients, Damon Devine, who battled depression for nearly 40 years before discovering TMS as a potential treatment option. After commencing treatment with SoCal TMS, he experienced a dramatic improvement in his depression symptoms within just a few weeks.

To watch the news segment in full, click this link below:

https://www.foxla.com/news/in-depth-suicide-prevention-month

03 May SoCal TMS Medical Director is lead author on two more scholarly publications on effectiveness of TMS on Anxious Depression & Major Depressive Disorder

Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of SoCal TMS, has long been recognized as a leader and noted expert in the field of TMS.  Dr Hutton  was just published again, twice as lead author of two more scholarly articles.

The most recent paper “The Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Patients With Anxious Depression” in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, shows that TMS has a clinically meaningful effect on patients who have both depression and anxiety. “Routine TMS delivered in diverse clinical settings results in marked anxiolytic and antidepressant effects in patients with anxious depression. The extent of improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms strongly covaries“

The other paper, “Dosing Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: Efficacy in Major Depressive Disorder as a function of number of treatment sessions“, shows that TMS is more effective as the number of treatment sessions increases.  “Data from this real-world, large database cohort, demonstrates a strong correlation between number of sessions in the TMS acute course and favorable MDD clinical outcomes. This increased benefit with increased treatment exposure also applies to individuals with incomplete benefit after 30 and 36 sessions. Extended treatment courses are associated with improved outcomes.”

You can click on this link to see a list of all of Dr Hutton’s publications.

01 Sep Pamela, an Actual Patient of Ours, Generously Shares Her TMS Journey

Pamela, a real patient of ours here at SoCal TMS, generously and kindly shares her experience with TMS treatments on her blog. We really appreciate how authentic, courageous, and emotionally-powerful, she is through her writing.

Please visit her blog by following this link:

Read Blog

01 Sep Medical Director of SoCal TMS Co-authors Article in the Journal of Affective Disorders

Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of SoCal TMS was just published as co-author of the article “Clinical outcomes in a large registry of patients with major depressive disorder treated with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation” in the Journal of Affective Disorders.

The article does an excellent job of objectively quantifying the efficacy of TMS in treating patients suffering from depression.

You can click on the link below to view online, or download the article in PDF form here.

30 Jul Dr. Todd Hutton Speaks With Christine Little About TMS Therapy as a Depression Treatment

Dr. Todd Hutton, Medical Director of Southern California TMS Center, was a special guest on the popular podcast, “A Little Advice With Christine Little.” This podcast is hosted by actress and comedian, Christine Little, whose work has been featured on platforms such as FOX, Huffington Post, and Voyage L.A. In this interview podcast, Christine asks for a layman’s explanation of what the FDA-approved depression treatment, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is, how it works, who it’s for, and how it continues to gain popularity with insurance companies.

Inside this interview with Dr. Hutton and Christine, you’ll learn about:

• How TMS stimulates parts of the brain that is underactive (which is one of the factors contributing to depression)
• Critical benefits of treating depression with TMS have over ECT (shock therapy) and standard antidepressants
• The success rate of TMS and how it stacks up against other depression treatments
• The role Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) plays in a patient’s treatment process
• How insurance companies look to cover this powerful depression treatment.

… and more. So please enjoy this podcast by clicking the play button below.