Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Adolescents
What is NeuroStar Advanced Therapy?
At our Vera French Clinic at Central Park, adolescents ages 15-21 can receive TMS treatment for Major Depressive Disorder!
NeuroStar is an FDA-cleared device that delivers a therapy called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). It uses a targeted pulsed magnetic field, similar to what is used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine. This magnetic field stimulates areas of the brain that are under-active in people with depression. This treatment method is noninvasive. TMS is not electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and has none of the side effects of ECT.
Of those who complete the 6-week course of TMS as directed by our psychiatrist, nearly half will finally be completely free from depression, and nearly all will experience a significant reduction in depressive symptoms. For patients who have tried everything else, NeuroStar TMS gives them and their families real hope that recovery is possible.
How does TMS Therapy work, and how is it different?
Individuals experiencing major depression who have tried multiple medications without success have a promising new option in TMS Therapy at Vera French. As prescribed and directed by our specially-trained psychiatrist, Neurostar is FDA approved and uses safe, magnetic pulses delivered to the brain in exactly the right location for maximum benefit – with none of the harmful side-effects of medication.
TMS Therapy is an in-office treatment that typically lasts between 19 to 37 minutes per session and is administered five days a week over the course of approximately four to six weeks. Treatments are provided at our Vera French Clinic at Central Park location: 1441 W. Central Park Avenue, Davenport, IA 52804. Our dedicated and experienced TMS staff is committed to providing exceptional care every step of the way.
TMS Therapy is covered by most health insurance plans. More than 12,000 adolescents that have been treated with TMS, this innovative treatment is bringing new hope to people every day! 
During a TMS treatment session at Vera French, a magnet is used to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain thought to control mood. These magnetic pulses may have a positive effect on the brain’s neurotransmitter levels, making long-term remission possible.
Before
You’ll recline comfortably in the treatment chair
A small, curved magnetic coil will be positioned lightly on your head
During
TMS delivers focused magnetic stimulation directly to the target areas of the brain
You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head
After
You can resume normal activities immediately
For people with depression who have not benefited from antidepressant medication, TMS Therapy is an exciting treatment option.
78% of adolescents who completed treatment saw symptom improvement*
48% experienced full remission of depression symptoms*