Frequently Asked Questions
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) therapy is a non-invasive treatment for depression and certain other mental health conditions. It uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in specific areas of the brain that are involved in mood regulation. TMS is typically used when other treatments, such as medication or talk therapy, haven’t been effective. The procedure is done in an outpatient setting, requires no anesthesia, and involves little to no downtime.
During a BrainsWay Deep TMS session, you’ll sit comfortably while a cushioned helmet is placed over your head. As the treatment begins, you may feel a tapping or knocking sensation on your scalp in the area being stimulated. Some people also hear a clicking sound during each magnetic pulse. The sensation can be mildly uncomfortable at first but typically becomes more tolerable after the first few sessions. Each treatment lasts about 20 minutes, and you can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
The timeline for feeling better with TMS can vary. Some people start to notice improvements in mood, energy, or focus within the first 1–2 weeks of treatment, while for others, it may take 4–6 weeks to experience significant changes. TMS works gradually, and consistency is key—most treatment plans involve sessions five days a week over several weeks. Your care team will closely monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed to support your recovery.
For many people, the benefits of TMS last several months to a year or more after completing a full treatment course. However, results vary — some experience longer-lasting relief, while others may notice symptoms gradually return.
Possibly, but not always. Some people experience long-term relief after one full course of TMS and never need additional treatment. Others may notice symptoms gradually return over time. If that happens, you might benefit from booster sessions — typically a shorter series of treatments designed to maintain or regain progress. Your provider will work with you to monitor how you're feeling after treatment and determine if follow-up sessions are needed. Many people respond well to just a few boosters, rather than repeating the full course.
TMS is generally well-tolerated and has fewer side effects than many medications used to treat depression. The most common side effect is mild to moderate scalp discomfort or headache during or shortly after treatment. This usually improves after the first few sessions and can often be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Less commonly, people may experience twitching in facial muscles, lightheadedness, or sensitivity at the treatment site. These effects are temporary and tend to go away once treatment ends.
Serious side effects are rare, but in very rare cases (less than 0.1%), TMS may trigger a seizure — usually only in individuals with a history of seizures or other specific risk factors. Providers screen carefully to minimize that risk.
In many cases, yes — most major insurance plans in this area do cover TMS, especially when it’s used to treat conditions like depression that haven’t responded well to medication or therapy. Coverage usually depends on meeting certain criteria, like a formal diagnosis and a documented history of trying other treatments first. Our team can help guide you through the pre-authorization process and work directly with your insurance provider to confirm eligibility.
Not necessarily. While TMS is a highly effective option for certain conditions, especially treatment-resistant depression, we take a personalized approach to care. Our team also offers GLP-1 therapy for weight management and metabolic health, as well as comprehensive medication management for psychiatric conditions and mood regulation. During your initial evaluation, we’ll work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific needs, goals, and medical history—which may include TMS, medication management, GLP-1 therapy, or a combination of approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
GLP-1 therapy includes medications that mimic a natural hormone in your body called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels, insulin response, and appetite. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications are now also widely used for weight management. GLP-1's work by slowing down digestion, helping you feel full longer, and reducing cravings — which can lead to sustainable weight loss when combined with healthy lifestyle changes. By regulating weight fluctuations and maintaining healthy lifestyle changes, improvements can be seen in mental health, especially you or someone you know struggles with body image issues.
It depends on the specific medication. Some GLP-1 medications, like Wegovy or Ozempic (semaglutide), are injected once a week, while others, like Saxenda (liraglutide), are taken once daily. Your provider will help choose the option that fits best with your health goals, lifestyle, and comfort level. Consistency matters — staying on schedule helps the medication work effectively. That said, your treatment plan may shift over time based on how your body responds, how you're feeling physically and emotionally, and whether you're noticing changes in things like energy, appetite, or mood.
Most people start to notice early effects within the first few weeks, especially around reduced appetite or fewer cravings. Meaningful changes in weight, energy, or mood often start to show up within 1 to 3 months, especially when paired with consistent routines like nourishing meals, movement, and emotional check-ins. That said, everyone’s body responds a little differently. Some people experience faster shifts, while others see slower but steady progress — both are completely normal.
The effects of GLP-1 therapy generally last as long as you continue the medication as prescribed. Since GLP-1s work by helping regulate appetite, digestion, and blood sugar, their benefits depend on ongoing use. If the medication is stopped, some people may experience a gradual return of appetite and weight changes over weeks to months. That’s why many providers recommend using GLP-1s as part of a long-term lifestyle approach—including healthy eating, regular movement, and mental health support—to help maintain results.
Yes, GLP-1 therapy is usually an ongoing treatment. Since their effects depend on consistent use, you’ll typically need to continue getting injections regularly—whether weekly or daily—based on your prescribed plan. Many people find that continuing GLP-1s helps maintain steady progress in managing weight, appetite, and blood sugar. If you stop, those benefits may fade over time. Your healthcare provider will work with you to decide the best schedule and length of treatment for your unique needs, keeping in mind not just physical goals but also your mental and emotional well-being.
GLP-1 therapy is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, they can cause some side effects—most commonly, nausea, upset stomach, or mild digestive discomfort during the first few weeks as your body adjusts. These usually improve over time. Other possible side effects include constipation, diarrhea, or a reduced appetite—which is often part of how the medication works. Rarely, some people may experience more serious issues like pancreatitis or allergic reactions, so it’s important to stay in close contact with your provider.
Many insurance plans still have restrictions around covering GLP-1 medications, especially when prescribed outside of traditional diabetes treatment. Because of this, our practice offers GLP-1 therapy as a cash-pay service at this time.
We understand that this can feel frustrating, especially when managing both physical and mental health challenges related to weight and body image. If cost is a concern, we’re happy to discuss options and support you in finding a plan that works for your health and budget.
Not necessarily. While GLP-1 therapy is a highly effective option for weight management and subsequently mood regulation, we take a personalized approach to care. Our team also offers TMS therapy for depression and other mental disorders, as well as comprehensive medication management for psychiatric conditions and mood regulation. During your initial evaluation, we’ll work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific needs, goals, and medical history—which may include TMS, medication management, GLP-1 therapy, or a combination of approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Outpatient psychiatric medication management is a service where a healthcare provider—usually a psychiatrist, nurse practitioner, or psychiatric physician assistant—works with you regularly to prescribe, monitor, and adjust medications that support your mental health.
This includes reviewing how medications are working, managing any side effects, and making changes to your treatment plan based on your symptoms, life changes, and goals. The goal is to find the right balance of medication that helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, manage symptoms, and support your overall well-being.
An initial evaluation usually lasts about 60 to 90 minutes. During this visit, your provider will get a detailed understanding of your mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals.
Follow-up visits are typically shorter—up to 30 minutes—and focus on reviewing how you’re doing with your medications, discussing any side effects or concerns, and making adjustments as needed. These visits are a chance to check in on your progress, answer questions, and ensure your treatment plan continues to support your well-being.
It depends on the medication and your unique response, but many people start noticing improvements within 2 to 6 weeks after starting or adjusting a medication. Some symptoms may improve sooner, while others take more time. Medication management is an ongoing process—your provider will monitor how you’re doing and make changes as needed to find the best fit for your mental health and overall well-being. Patience and open communication are key to getting the most benefit.
Medication management is usually indefinite—it continues as long as you and your provider believe it’s appropriate and beneficial for your mental health. Some people use it short-term, while others find ongoing support helpful for maintaining stability and well-being.
Yes, medication management usually involves regular follow-up visits to monitor how you’re doing, adjust medications if needed, and support your ongoing mental health. The frequency of visits depends on your individual needs and treatment plan, and your provider will work with you to find the right schedule.
To get the most from medication management, it’s important to attend your scheduled appointments, adhere to clinic policies, and be respectful of staff and their time. Open and honest communication with your provider and care team is key—share how you’re feeling, any side effects, and any changes in your life that might affect your treatment. This partnership helps ensure your care is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.
Most insurance plans do cover outpatient psychiatric medication management, but coverage can vary depending on your specific plan and provider. We recommend checking with your insurance company to understand your benefits and any requirements like referrals or prior authorizations. Our team is also happy to help you navigate insurance questions and verify your coverage before you start.
Not necessarily. While medication management is helpful for treating broad psychiatric conditions and mood regulation, we take a personalized approach to care. Our team also offers TMS therapy for depression and other mental disorders, as well as GLP-1 therapy for weight management. During your initial evaluation, we’ll work with you to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific needs, goals, and medical history—which may include TMS, medication management, GLP-1 therapy, or a combination of approaches.
Copyright © 2025 Swofford & Roe Psychiatric Associates - All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.