TMS Therapy

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS therapy) may be recommended when major depressive disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has not responded to other treatments. Duke Health TMS providers determine whether TMS therapy is appropriate to treat your condition. They have the knowledge to effectively administer the treatment so you can return to the activities you enjoy.

What Is TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy is a safe, effective, non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This allows it to “rewire” abnormal brain activity patterns.

TMS therapy involves daily (Monday through Friday) 30-minute sessions for six weeks, for a total of at least 30 sessions.
It does not require anesthesia or surgery, and most people tolerate TMS therapy well. Side effects, such as headaches or scalp discomfort, are minimal and temporary.
About 30% of people treated with TMS achieve complete relief from depression, and about 30% have their symptoms reduced by half.

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What to Expect During Your TMS Therapy Session

During your first visit, you will meet with a psychiatrist who will review your medical and psychiatric history, discuss the risks and benefits of TMS, and determine whether it is right for you.

On your following visits, you will sit in the TMS chair and be given hearing protection and fitted with a special cap. Then treatment begins. You will be awake the whole time, and your provider will remain at your side to answer questions and respond to concerns. You can resume your normal activities immediately following each session.

Our Locations

Duke Health offers locations throughout the Triangle. Find one near you.

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Why Choose Duke

Personalized Care During Your TMS Therapy Session

At Duke, your doctor is very involved with your care, both in the initial assessment and along the way. This means that you will meet with them frequently, allowing them to assess your treatment and adjust as needed.

Additional Treatment Options

If TMS is not beneficial for you, we can discuss additional interventional psychiatric therapies that are also provided in our clinic.

Active TMS Research

The Department of Psychiatry is involved in research on new psychiatric treatments, including TMS. They use the results of their research to ensure you receive the most effective treatment to help you reduce your symptoms and improve your mental health.

Consistently Ranked Among the Nation’s Best Hospitals

Duke University Hospital is proud of our team and the exceptional care they provide. They are why we are recognized as the best hospital in North Carolina, and nationally ranked in 11 adult and 9 pediatric specialties by U.S. News & World Report for 2025–2026.

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855-855-6484

This page was medically reviewed on 02/05/2026 by

Jacob Feigal, MD | Internal Medicine Doctor