Many people wonder, “how long does TMS take to start working?” and “How long do the benefits last?”. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can be a life-changing treatment for depression, but results aren’t immediate.
This article will explore the TMS treatment timeline, when patients typically see improvement, and factors that can affect response time.
What Is TMS?
TMS is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. Unlike medication, TMS does not circulate through the bloodstream, which helps patients avoid common drug-related side effects.
TMS is FDA-approved for:
-
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), including treatment-resistant cases
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), using a specific TMS protocol
- Smoking cessation
At McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center (NTC) in McLean, VA, we offer personalized TMS treatment plans for patients struggling with depression and other mental health conditions.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS delivers magnetic pulses into the brain, stimulating nerve cells in under active areas. This process:
- Increases brain activity in regions responsible for mood and emotional regulation
- Enhances neuroplasticity, helping the brain build stronger neural connections
- Modulates neurotransmitter activity, including dopamine and serotonin, which are key components in mood regulation.
How TMS Targets Depression
During TMS therapy, a magnetic coil is placed over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)—a brain region that is often less active in people with depression.
TMS “wakes up” this part of the brain, gradually improving mood and emotional well-being. However, since TMS also impacts gene expression and synaptic plasticity, the brain needs time to produce proteins and build new pathways—meaning results aren’t immediate.
How Long Does a TMS Session Last?
Each TMS treatment session lasts about 18 minutes.
A full TMS treatment course consists of:
- 36 sessions over 4–6 weeks
- The last 6 sessions are tapered, reducing frequency to 2–3 sessions per week
At McLean NTC, our team supports patients through every step of the treatment journey, from initial evaluation to post-treatment follow-ups.
When Do Patients Notice Improvements?
Most people begin to see improvements in depression symptoms after 2–4 weeks of TMS treatment. However:
- Some patients feel better sooner
- Others take longer to notice changes
At McLean NTC, patients meet with Dr. Haq outside of treatment sessions to track progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
It’s important to be patient, as the full benefits of TMS may not be apparent until after completing the entire treatment course. Even after treatment ends, many patients continue to improve in the following weeks.
Factors That Affect How Quickly TMS Works
Several factors influence TMS response time, including:
- Severity of Depression – Individuals with more severe depression may need more time for TMS to take full effect.
- Brain Chemistry – Differences in neurotransmitter levels can impact how quickly the brain responds.
- Age – Younger patients may respond faster, though TMS is effective across all age groups.
- Co-Occurring Conditions – Additional mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety or PTSD) may affect how long TMS takes to work.
- Consistency of Treatment – Skipping sessions or not completing the full treatment course may delay progress.
- Ongoing Therapy – Combining TMS with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or other forms of psychotherapy can enhance recovery and improve long-term results.
How Long Do the Benefits of TMS Last?
For many patients, TMS provides long-lasting relief from depression. While the initial treatment plan lasts 4–6 weeks, symptom relief can last for months or even years.
However, some patients require maintenance sessions to sustain the effects. These sessions are usually scheduled at longer intervals, depending on individual response.
Research on Long-Term TMS Benefits
A study of 257 adults with treatment-resistant depression found that:
- 29.6% achieved full remission
- 17.1% showed clinical improvement
- 23.0% had a partial response
Among those who improved, 62.5% maintained progress at one year. For those who relapsed, it took six months for symptoms to return.
At McLean NTC in McLean, VA, we work with patients to monitor their long-term progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Conclusion: How Quickly Does TMS Work?
✔ TMS does not work instantly, but most patients notice improvements within 2–4 weeks.
✔ The full benefits develop over time, as brain connections strengthen and mood improves.
✔ Some people experience long-term relief, while others may require maintenance sessions to keep symptoms under control.
✔ Factors like depression severity, brain chemistry, and treatment consistency impact how quickly TMS works and how long the benefits last.
Interested in TMS Therapy in McLean, VA?
If you’re considering TMS treatment for depression, McLean NTC is here to help.
Contact McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center today to schedule a consultation and find out if TMS therapy in McLean, VA is right for you.