How Many TMS Treatments to Feel Better? Timeline & What to Expect at Neuralia TMS

Most patients begin feeling better after 10-15 TMS sessions, with significant improvement typically seen by 18-30 sessions within a standard course of 36-37 treatments over 6-12 weeks. Individual response varies based on depression severity, biological differences, and treatment adherence, with consistent attendance crucial for optimal outcomes. Early signs of improvement include reduced sadness, increased motivation, better sleep, and clearer thinking, progressing gradually throughout the treatment course. For comprehensive TMS therapy and specialised neurological treatments, Neuralia TMS tinnitus treatment melbourne provides evidence-based protocols under medical supervision, combining TMS with personalised care plans and lifestyle guidance to maximise therapeutic benefits for depression, anxiety, and other neurological conditions including tinnitus.

Understanding TMS Therapy

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic pulses to target brain regions involved in mood regulation. Clinicians often recommend TMS for people with depression who haven’t responded to medication or psychotherapy according to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists. Each session lasts 20 to 40 minutes while patients remain awake, and treatments don’t require anaesthesia.

Neuralia TMS in Melbourne provides TMS therapy in a clinical setting under medical supervision. Staff monitor patient progress across multiple sessions, typically five days a week for four to six weeks. Most clinics, including Neuralia TMS, follow evidence-based protocols to individualise treatment plans, adapting the number of sessions if symptoms change or improve during the course.

Adverse effects remain uncommon, with mild headache or scalp discomfort reported in a minority of patients according to meta-analyses published by the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry. TMS doesn’t produce cognitive side effects linked to traditional medications. According to clinical data, around 60% of patients notice some improvement, with response rates published by Beyond Blue ranging between 50% and 70% across TMS providers in Melbourne.

Factors Influencing Response to TMS Treatment

Response to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression differs between patients due to clinical factors and patient characteristics. Neuralia TMS in Melbourne tailors every treatment plan to these variables, supporting better outcomes.

Severity and Type of Depression

Severity and type of depression strongly influence results from TMS therapy. Patients with mild or moderate depression experience improvement more often compared to those with severe or treatment-resistant forms. For example, remission rates after a six-week course average 20-25% overall but are higher in those with milder symptoms. People with chronic or recurrent depression, especially those who haven’t responded to medication or psychotherapy, might require longer courses or alternative TMS protocols for best effect. Neuralia TMS records these depression patterns before recommending a protocol, helping set realistic timelines for progress.

Individual Biological Differences

Individual biological differences impact how patients respond to TMS. Genetic make-up and neurobiological traits—such as differences in brain activity, structure, and chemistry—alter the effectiveness of brain stimulation. Some patients respond quickly within 18 sessions, while others need up to 30 or more to notice improvement. Age, general health, and previous treatment history also contribute to outcome. At Neuralia TMS in Melbourne, clinicians assess these factors in initial consultations, using this data to adjust frequency or type of stimulation for each person.

Treatment Protocol and Frequency

Treatment protocol and frequency determine how soon TMS reduces depression symptoms. Research shows both 15- and 30-minute sessions work likewise well, provided patients complete three to five sessions per week for six weeks. Completing at least 18 to 30 sessions increases the chance of noticeable improvement. Adjusting session number or intensity—such as using high-frequency or theta burst protocols—adapts the process to individual needs. Neuralia TMS applies evidence-based schedules, tracking response through each week and increasing or altering frequency if progress stalls. Consistent attendance delivers the best likelihood of feeling better within the standard timeframe.

Typical Timeline for Feeling Better With TMS

Most patients begin noticing improvement with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) after a few weeks. The timeline depends on individual factors, session frequency and completing a full course as recommended by providers like Neuralia TMS in Melbourne.

Early Signs of Improvement

Small signs of improvement from TMS therapy often appear after 10 to 15 sessions. Examples include reduced feelings of sadness, increased motivation and less frequent negative thoughts. Patients might also report better sleep and clearer thinking during the first 2 to 4 weeks of consistent treatment. Symptom relief tends to increase as the sessions continue, with further mood improvements typically observed week by week. Neuralia TMS monitors patient progress closely and adjusts treatment as needed to maximise early benefits.

Average Number of Sessions Needed

A standard TMS treatment plan usually involves 36 to 37 sessions over 6 to 12 weeks. Sessions typically occur three to five times per week, with each session lasting about 20 to 40 minutes. Completing the entire course is crucial, as stopping early limits the potential for sustained improvement. Some providers, including Neuralia TMS in Melbourne, offer accelerated or shorter session protocols that can deliver similar results in less time for specific patients. Maintenance sessions may also be recommended if symptoms start returning after the initial course.

Managing Expectations During TMS Therapy

Patients receiving TMS in Melbourne, including those at Neuralia TMS, often notice changes in mood and daily function at different rates. Some report improvement early in their treatment course, while others see benefits over an extended period.

Coping With Slow or Gradual Progress

Progress with TMS can be subtle or delayed. Some patients start to feel better after 10 to 15 sessions, though others may require up to 36 sessions, delivered over 8 to 12 weeks, to achieve significant relief (Clinical TMS Society, 2024). Mood improvements range from mild increases in motivation to better sleep. If symptoms improve gradually, providers at Neuralia TMS encourage patients to maintain patience and persist with the full treatment plan. In some cases, if progress is slow, extension of treatment for an additional 1 to 4 weeks supports further response. Monitoring changes in daily coping, energy, and mood provides a clearer picture of individual outcomes.

Importance of Consistency and Monitoring

Consistency with TMS sessions strongly affects treatment success. Attending all scheduled sessions, typically 5 days a week, supports optimal outcomes. Missing sessions or deviating from the plan may lower the chance of positive results. At Neuralia TMS, staff use tools such as daily PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments to objectively track symptom changes and guide care adjustments. Shorter TMS sessions, such as 15-minute protocols, have proven likewise effective as longer sessions, increasing convenience without affecting results (Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, 2023). Ongoing communication with clinicians ensures the treatment remains targeted to each patient’s needs.

Alternatives and Supplements to TMS Treatment

Alternatives and supplements to TMS therapy improve treatment outcomes, especially for those experiencing depression in Melbourne. These options work alongside TMS or as part of a personalised plan at providers like Neuralia TMS.

Combination With Medication or Therapy

Combining TMS with psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, significantly increases remission rates for depression. A large clinical study showed that patients receiving both TMS and psychotherapy reached remission at rates of 55%, while TMS alone resulted in 31–37% remission. Medication may be used with TMS, especially when previous antidepressant trials haven’t provided relief, but TMS has surpassed switching medications in treatment-resistant cases. At Neuralia TMS in Melbourne, psychiatrists supervise medication management to ensure effective coordination with TMS sessions. Collaborative care maximises results, with clinical teams tailoring combinations of therapy and medicine to suit each patient’s individual medical history and response to treatment.

Lifestyle Considerations

Lifestyle factors support TMS outcomes but don’t replace clinical treatments. Regular aerobic exercise, such as walking or cycling three times per week for 30 minutes, can help stabilise mood. Balanced nutrition, including a diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, assists in brain function recovery. Sleep consistency, such as maintaining a fixed sleep schedule and limiting screen time before bed, improves emotional resilience. Effective stress management techniques, which include mindfulness and breathwork, reduce symptom severity. Avoiding substances like alcohol and recreational drugs is important, since they may interfere with treatment progress. Neuralia TMS in Melbourne provides guidance on implementing these healthy habits alongside scheduled TMS sessions to reinforce clinical gains and sustain improvements.

About Neuralia TMS

Neuralia TMS, located in Moonee Ponds, VIC, is a leading provider of non-invasive, drug-free treatments for mental health and neurological conditions.

Under the leadership of Medical Director Dr. Shanek Wick, Neuralia TMS specialises in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, which is used to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, chronic pain, and Parkinson’s disease. In addition, the clinic offers Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), an at-home neuromodulation therapy, as well as pharmacogenetic testing to personalise treatments based on each patient’s unique genetic profile.

Contact:
Dr. Shanek Wick, Medical Director

Phone: 03 9122 5246
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.neuralia.com.au

Location:
Suite 102/149-155 Pascoe Vale Rd, Moone Ponds 3039 VIC

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation. It is often recommended for people with depression or other mental health conditions who have not responded to medication or psychotherapy.

How soon can I expect results from TMS?

Most patients begin to notice improvements after 10 to 15 sessions, which is typically within two to three weeks. However, some may need the full course of treatment—usually 36 to 37 sessions—for significant relief.

How many TMS sessions will I need?

A standard TMS course involves 36 to 37 sessions spread over 6 to 12 weeks, with sessions occurring three to five times per week. The exact number may vary based on individual needs and response to treatment.

What does a typical TMS session involve?

Each TMS session lasts between 20 to 40 minutes. Patients remain awake and do not require anaesthesia. During the session, magnetic pulses are delivered to targeted areas of the brain using a specialised device.

Are there any side effects of TMS?

TMS is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects are mild headaches or scalp discomfort, which tend to resolve after a few sessions. Unlike many medications, TMS does not cause cognitive side effects.

What factors affect how quickly TMS works?

Response to TMS depends on factors such as the severity and type of depression, individual biological differences, and treatment consistency. Patients with mild or moderate depression often see quicker results than those with severe symptoms.

Is it important to attend all scheduled TMS sessions?

Yes, consistency is key. Attending all scheduled sessions maximises treatment effectiveness and increases the likelihood of a sustained improvement in symptoms.

Can TMS be combined with other treatments?

TMS can be safely combined with psychotherapy and medication for enhanced results. In fact, combining TMS with approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to further increase remission rates.

Will I need maintenance TMS sessions?

Some patients may benefit from maintenance sessions if symptoms return after the initial treatment course. Your care team at Neuralia TMS will monitor progress and recommend additional sessions if needed.

What lifestyle changes can support TMS treatment?

Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, good sleep habits, effective stress management, and avoiding alcohol or recreational drugs can all support TMS outcomes. Neuralia TMS provides guidance on incorporating these habits for better results.