Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Ottawa
What TMS Does and How it Works
The brain has the natural ability to change and adapt over time. This phenomenon is known as neuroplasticity and TMS accelerates this process. Over the course of treatment TMS works by stimulating specific regions and networks in the brain with electromagnetic pulses. Repeated stimulation of these specific brain areas leads to desired changes in previously underactive or dysfunctional brain networks.
The Salience Network
The salience network is a group of brain regions responsible for detecting important or emotional information and directing attention toward it. It helps us focus on things that are relevant or significant, especially when it comes to emotions, rewards, or danger.
In people with depression, OCD, anxiety disorders and PTSD, the salience network often doesn’t function as it should—it may become underactive or fail to properly respond to emotional cues. TMS can enhance activity in these areas which helps the brain better recognize and respond to internal and external cues. Over time, this supports better emotional balance and mood regulation.
Deep TMS
We use advanced Brainsway technology to provide TMS treatments at our clinic. This type of TMS is also known as “Deep TMS” or dTMS based on its ability to better stimulate deeper brain structures than traditional rTMS techniques.
What to expect during your TMS Therapy Sessions
DURING SESSIONS
- Being asked to remove any jewelry you have on your person
- Putting in earplugs to minimize the sound emitted by the machine
- Feeling a light tapping sensation and hearing pulsing from the machine (similar to an MRI machine)
Post-TMS Session: What to Expect
