Can TMS Therapy Impact Unintended Areas of My Brain?

2/28/2025

TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy is a specialized treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Many individuals have turned to TMS therapy for relief from mood disorders, especially when other treatment options have not been effective. This treatment is designed to target only the regions responsible for mood regulation, leaving other areas of the brain unaffected, making it a safe and well-tolerated option. At Serenity Mental Health Centers, we are committed to patient education and safety, ensuring you have the information you need to make the best decision for your care. To learn more about TMS therapy or to see if it may be right for you, contact our office in San Tan Valley, UT to schedule a consultation.

What is TMS therapy used for?

TMS therapy is commonly used to treat mental health conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, post-traumatic disorder (PTSD), and depression. At Serenity, we offer this safe, noninvasive treatment to help patients find relief and a renewed sense of well-being.

How is the brain affected by TMS therapy?

TMS therapy works by delivering magnetic pulses to specific brain regions involved in mood regulation, primarily the prefrontal cortex. This area is crucial for managing emotions, decision-making, and overall mental well-being. By stimulating neural activity, TMS can enhance mood and cognitive function, making it an effective option for conditions like depression and anxiety. It helps restore balance in brain activity by activating underactive regions or calming overactive areas. This noninvasive treatment provides relief without impacting other parts of the brain.

Are there permanent side effects of TMS?

One of the biggest benefits of TMS therapy is its minimal side effects, which are usually mild and short-lived. Common side effects include:

  • Headache
  • Scalp sensitivity
  • Mild discomfort in the treatment area

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

How does TMS compare to other treatments?

Compared to medications, TMS therapy offers a more precise approach to treatment. While medications can affect multiple areas of the brain and body, often causing side effects like drowsiness, weight gain, or digestive issues, TMS specifically targets the brain regions responsible for mood regulation. This focused treatment minimizes unwanted side effects while delivering effective results.

For individuals who have not found relief with medications or struggle with their side effects, TMS therapy provides a safe and effective alternative 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, and PTSD. At Serenity, we provide 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 San Tan Valley, UT office to learn more about its benefits and how it can support your mental health journey.

Request Appointment

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