TMS for Teens: A Therapy Guide for Parents & Guardians

TMS for Teens: A Therapy Guide for Parents & Guardians

The Albany Clinic • October 24, 2024

Mental health treatments have evolved over the past few years. One such breakthrough is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, which has shown promising results for depression in patients of almost every age group, including those suffering from adolescent depression.


If you’re a parent or a guardian, you might be wondering if TMS therapy can help treat mental health issues in adolescents. Is it safe for children? Are there any side effects? In today’s article, we’ll address questions like these to help you understand TMS therapy and decide if it’s the right option for your child.

What is TMS Therapy?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation uses magnetic waves to stimulate certain parts of the brain. It’s non-invasive and has a high success rate in treating major depressive disorder with minimal side effects, including in adolescent patients.


In a typical TMS session, the doctor places a coil on the patient’s scalp to send magnetic pulses to a specific part of the brain. The goal is to stimulate the brain’s activity and relieve the symptoms of the underlying mental health condition. During the session, the patient remains fully awake and doesn’t need any medication.

How TMS Therapy Works

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate brain activity. During a TMS session, a magnetic coil is placed on the scalp, and high-frequency magnetic pulses are directed at the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), an area of the brain that is often underactive in individuals with depression. These magnetic pulses work by increasing neuronal excitability and promoting the growth of new neural connections. This process helps to improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms. TMS therapy is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults and for adolescents as well.

What are the Age Limits to Using TMS Therapy?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority has approved the use of TMS therapy as a treatment for depression in people between 18 and 70 years of age [1]. However, studies have shown that it can be effectively and safely used for children and adolescents as young as 9 years [2]. The FDA has approved the use of TMS for children or adolescents and parents should consider it as an alternative for depression treatment.

A young man is sitting at a desk in front of a computer.

What are the Benefits of TMS Therapy?

TMS therapy offers some attractive benefits, especially compared to other forms of treatment like antidepressants and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It’s proving to be a good alternative for medical professionals, whether the patient is experiencing side effects or just isn’t seeing significant improvements from traditional methods.


A prominent benefit of TMS is that it doesn’t require surgery, anesthesia, or even a hospital stay. Patients can receive this treatment and go about their day without any major disruptions. It’s a safe and non-intrusive way of treating several mental health conditions. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often used as a primary pharmacological intervention for adolescents with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), but concerns about their effectiveness and safety persist.


Moreover, while antidepressants may help alleviate symptoms, their side effects can be overwhelming sometimes. The TMS therapy doesn’t involve any medication, which can be a major relief for many patients.



In addition, unlike traditional medications, which can affect the entire body, TMS targets a specific region in your brain. Using TMS, medical specialists can now take a more targeted approach, addressing the underlying issue more effectiv

Can Transcranial Magnetic Therapy Help Adolescent Depression?

Research suggests that many young people don’t respond to first-line treatment methods including antidepressants and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)[3]. The worrisome thing is that depression at an early age increases the risk of recurring mental health conditions in the later stages of life.



Fortunately, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation has been showing promising results as an alternative method of treatment in adolescents and children with depression symptoms [4]. So, yes, research suggests using transcranial magnetic therapy can be an effective way to alleviate and treat depression in adolescents, with significant improvements in their depression severity.

Is TMS Therapy Safe for Adolescents?

Clinical studies suggest that TMS therapy poses similar risks in both adults and adolescents suffering from psychiatric disorders. The procedure is proven to be safe and effective in adolescents and teenagers between the ages of 13 and 21.


In addition, TMS doesn’t alter brain activity, motor development, and cognition. Mild temporary headaches are a common side effect, while scalp pain or irritation is rare. Headaches caused by TMS therapy usually go away without needing any treatment. As for scalp pain, medical professionals can avoid that by effectively cleaning the area of the head where the electrode is placed.


Other less common side effects of TMS include:

  • Lightheadedness
  • Neck pain
  • Tingling
  • Facial twitching
  • Sleepiness
  • Altered cognition during treatment


Although the risk of seizures is there, it’s rare. Overall, the combination of a high response rate and minimal side effects of TMS makes it safe for adolescents. It’s important to note that researchers suggest a treatment period of about 6 months to a year for adolescents for optimal results.

When is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Used?

If you have treatment resistant major depression, the doctor will likely recommend a first-line of treatment, such as antidepressants and psychotherapy before TMS therapy. However, if none of that works over a period of time, or you’ve experienced negative side effects from antidepressants, you’re a good candidate for TMS Therapy. Importantly, TMS therapy may be a better option for adolescents as antidepressants are more likely to cause negative side effects in younger patients.



As previously mentioned, if a child is diagnosed with depression, they’re more likely to develop recurring mental health conditions in adulthood. Adolescents who experience symptoms of depression are 4 times more likely to develop this condition later on than people who never had any symptoms.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy Use Cases

TMS therapy can be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions. Although researchers are still studying it, TMS may help with the following conditions. 


Treatment Resistant Depression

Approximately 30% of major depression patients don’t respond well to common treatment methods. TMS has been shown to work for treatment-resistant depression. It helps alleviate depression symptoms through brain cell stimulation.


OCD 

As with depression, if a patient isn’t responding to typical OCD treatments, TMS is a recommended alternative. The procedure can be effectively used to inhibit the activity in the brain, reducing OCD symptoms. 


Anxiety

Conditions like depression and OCD can cause anxiety symptoms, which makes TMS a suitable treatment option for anxiety. People with anxiety disorders experience an increased activity in the prefrontal cortex of the brain; TMS helps to reduce this activity. 


PTSD

The prefrontal cortex regulates how the human brain processes worry and fear. TMS therapy targets this region of the brain, offering therapeutic effects. The effectiveness of TMS as a treatment for PTSD has been backed by research. 

TMS therapy may also be used to treat the following mental health conditions:

  • Stroke Rehabilitation 
  • Schizophrenia
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Chronic pain
  • Nicotine addiction
  • Multiple sclerosis

What to Expect During TMS Treatment

During a TMS treatment session, your child will sit comfortably in a chair while a magnetic coil is placed on their scalp. This coil is connected to a machine that generates magnetic pulses. The treatment typically lasts between 20 to 30 minutes, during which your child may feel a mild tapping sensation on their scalp. Some patients might experience mild scalp pain or discomfort, but these sensations are usually temporary and resolve on their own. Throughout the session, your child will remain awake and alert, and they can resume their normal activities immediately afterward. A typical course of TMS treatment consists of 30 sessions over six weeks, followed by a three-week taper period to ensure lasting benefits.

Types of TMS Treatment

There are several types of TMS treatment, each tailored to meet different needs:

  • High-frequency TMS: This is the most common type, involving high-frequency magnetic pulses directed at the DLPFC.
  • Low-frequency TMS: This type uses low-frequency magnetic pulses aimed at the DLPFC.
  • Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS): This involves short bursts of high-frequency magnetic pulses directed at the DLPFC, offering a more rapid treatment option.
  • Deep TMS: Utilizes a specialized coil that can penetrate deeper into the brain, allowing for more targeted treatment.
  • Accelerated TMS: Involves multiple sessions per day, which can be effective for patients requiring more intensive treatment.


Each type of TMS treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of treatment will depend on your child’s specific needs and circumstances. Discussing these options with a healthcare provider can help determine the most suitable approach for your child’s condition.


Who Should Avoid TMS Therapy?

TMS generally is a great alternative to common treatment methods, but it’s not suitable for everyone. Patients with a metal implant in their head should avoid TMS as the procedure can cause these implants to heat up or move.


These metallic implants include:

  • Electrodes
  • Neck or brain stents
  • Metal plates
  • Shrapnel or bullet pieces
  • Deep brain stimulators
  • And maybe more


Moreover, avoid TMS if you have a history of seizures or epilepsy. Mental health patients can, however, get TMS therapy safely if they have dental implants or braces.

The albany clinic logo is blue and white in a circle.

TMS Therapy for Adolescents & Where To Find Help

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy is proving to be a perfect non-intrusive depression treatment for people of all ages, including adolescents. The risks involved are minimal; the most common side effect is mild headaches that go away on their own without needing any treatment. 


TMS therapy could be the right option for your child if he or she has been diagnosed with depression or any other mental health issue. Doctors typically recommend TMS therapy when the first line of treatment fails to produce any significant results. 


If your child is showing signs of depression or isn’t improving with traditional treatments and you are local to Carbondale Illinois, consider discussing TMS therapy with a mental health specialist at The Albany Clinic. We're the local depression treatment experts.

35 Albany Rd. Suite A Carbondale, IL 62903

Phone:     (888) 804-4330


Cited Source(s):
  1. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2021, April 23). Premarket Notification for Brainsway Deep TMS System (with iTBS Protocol), K203735. [FDA]
  2. Croarkin, P. E., Wall, C. A., & Lee, J. (2011). Applications of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in child and adolescent psychiatry. International Review of Psychiatry, 23(5), 445-453. [DOI]
  3. Hetrick, S. E., Cox, G. R., & Merry, S. N. (2011). Treatment-resistant depression in adolescents: is the addition of cognitive behavioral therapy of benefit? Psychology Research and Behavior Management, 4, 97-112. [DOI
  4. Allen, C. H., Kluger, B. M., & Buard, I. (2017). Safety of transcranial magnetic stimulation in children: A systematic review of the literature.
  5. Pediatric Neurology, 68, 3-17. [DOI]
Book Your Free Initial Consultation
By Matt Rodriguez April 1, 2025
Finding effective depression treatment can be challenging, especially when cost and insurance coverage add to the stress. Fortunately, for individuals in Illinois, several advanced, insurance-backed options are available beyond traditional antidepressants and therapy. This article explores innovative treatments for depression that are available at our Albany Clinic in Carbondale. Addressing the Need for Affordable Depression Relief in Illinois Depression remains a significant public health concern in Illinois. In 2023, data showed that 18.1% of all adults in the state had a doctor's diagnosis of a depressive disorder . Traditional first-line treatments for depression include medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). However, these are not universally effective; approximately one-third of patients are treatment-resistant. Even when these medications do work, they often take a long time to produce noticeable improvements, and unpleasant side effects can deter their use. Talk therapies , such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, are also strongly recommended. These treatments can have hugely beneficial effects, but it can require a lot of time commitment for results to show. Moreover, not all therapists accept insurance–especially for those practicing more specialized forms–making the treatment inaccessible for many. Spravato (Esketamine) for Depression What is Spravato, and how does it work? Spravato is an FDA-approved nasal spray that contains esketamine, a derivative of ketamine. Like ketamine, esketamine treats depression by interacting with NMDA receptors , proteins that play a key role in learning and memory. This interaction triggers several neurological processes, including neuroplasticity —the strengthening and forming of connections between nerve cells. Enhanced plasticity may improve the function of nerve circuits responsible for mood regulation, increasing overall well-being. A typical Spravato treatment involves sessions administered under medical supervision, starting with twice-weekly doses and then tapering as appropriate. Whereas antidepressants typically take around four weeks to show an effect, Spravato can have rapid action at alleviating symptoms. A study found that Spravato significantly reduced depression symptoms compared to a placebo drug within just 24 hours of administration. Does Insurance cover Spravato? Due to its FDA approval, Spravato is covered by most major insurance plans in Illinois, including Medicare and Medicaid. However, only patients with a formal diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) or major depressive disorder with suicidal ideation (MDSI) are eligible for the treatment. While the medication is usually covered by insurance, patients may still have out-of-pocket costs , including copays , deductibles , and pre-treatment medical evaluations . Your exact expenses will depend on your specific insurance plan. At the Albany Clinic, we’re here to help you understand your costs and maximize your coverage. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy What is TMS, and how does it work? TMS therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate underactive regions of the brain associated with mood regulation. In depression, TMS targets the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) , which is often less active in individuals with the condition. TMS therapy works by: Inducing electrical activity in neurons , prompting the release of neurotransmitters involved in mood and motivation. Increasing the activity of neural circuits responsible for mood regulation. Enhancing neuroplasticity , potentially “re-wiring” nerve circuits associated with unhealthy thinking and behavior. The treatment protocol typically consists of daily sessions over several weeks. Each session lasts about 20-40 minutes, during which patients remain awake and alert. Does insurance cover TMS? Since TMS therapy is FDA-approved, some major insurance providers in Illinois cover costs, but unfortunately, the state’s Medicaid does not. If you're considering TMS, check with your insurance provider to see if your plan includes coverage, as eligibility and benefits vary. At the Albany Clinic, we're here to help clarify details and explore options to make treatment more affordable. IV Ketamine Infusion Therapy What is an IV ketamine infusion and how does it work? IV ketamine infusion therapy involves administering ketamine intravenously at sub-anesthetic doses . This approach has shown rapid and robust antidepressant effects, especially in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. IV ketamine shares the same mechanism as Spravato but tends to have more rapid-acting effects. A standard course includes multiple infusions over a set period, with each session lasting approximately one hour. Does insurance cover IV ketamine? Unlike Spravato and TMS, IV ketamine infusion therapy is not FDA-approved for depression treatment and instead is used “ off-label .” This means most insurance plans don’t accept ketamine, and coverage is limited. However, some insurance companies may reimburse some of the treatment costs, such as the evaluation and management part. At the Albany Clinic, we’ll provide you with all the documentation to submit a claim to your insurance provider, but full payment is required before each procedure. Navigating Insurance for Depression Treatment Understanding insurance coverage for depression treatments can be complex. Here are steps to help streamline the process: Verify Coverage : Contact your insurance provider to inquire about treatment coverage specifics. Some insurers require a history of treatment failures with traditional antidepressants before approving coverage for these advanced therapies. Obtain Pre-Authorization : Many insurers require pre-authorization for certain treatments. Ensure all necessary approvals are secured before initiating therapy. The Albany Clinic's administrative team can assist in submitting pre-authorization requests. Understand Financial Responsibilities : Clarify any co-pays, deductibles, or out-of-pocket expenses associated with your treatment plan. Consult Our Team : The Albany Clinic's administrative staff is experienced in navigating insurance processes and can assist you in understanding and managing the financial aspects of your treatment. We also provide financial counseling to help patients explore payment plans and reimbursement options. Going Forward Navigating insurance for depression treatment can be complex, but you don’t have to do it alone. At The Albany Clinic , we’re dedicated to helping patients access effective, insurance-backed treatments while minimizing out-of-pocket costs. Contact us today to learn more about your options and take the next step toward relief.
By Matt Rodriguez March 3, 2025
Struggling with a social anxiety disorder (SAD) can feel isolating and overwhelming, especially when other medications haven’t proved effective. However, ketamine therapy offers a promising path forward, showing fast and significant relief from SAD symptoms. At The Albany Clinic in Albany, New York, we provide customized ketamine treatment plans designed to empower patients to overcome the challenges of SAD. Read on to explore the science and benefits of this transformative approach. Understanding Social Anxiety Disorder Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), often referred to as social phobia, is a chronic mental health condition characterized by extreme fear and discomfort in social situations. While occasional nervousness in social settings is normal, social anxiety disorder is more persistent and can significantly disrupt daily life, relationships, and career opportunities. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) , 7.1% of the U.S. population experiences social anxiety disorder annually. Recognizing the Symptoms of SAD The symptoms of social anxiety disorder can be grouped into three categories: emotional, behavioral, and physical. Emotional Symptoms: Intense fear of social interactions, particularly with strangers. Persistent worry about being judged or negatively evaluated. Excessive anxiety about upcoming social events, often for weeks in advance. Overwhelming self-consciousness in social environments. Behavioral Symptoms: Avoidance of social situations. Skipping school, work, or events to avoid social interaction. Relying on alcohol or other substances to ease anxiety in social settings. Physical Symptoms: Sweating, trembling, dry mouth, or muscle tension. Panic attacks in extreme cases. At The Albany Clinic, we understand the debilitating impact of these symptoms and offer ketamine therapy as a groundbreaking approach to address SAD. Our compassionate team is dedicated to creating personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. How Ketamine Therapy Helps Treat Social Anxiety Ketamine has emerged as a promising treatment for social anxiety disorder due to its unique mechanism of action. Unlike traditional treatments, ketamine interacts with NMDA receptors in the brain, enhancing neuroplasticity —the brain’s ability to form new neural connections. This process can help improve brain function in areas related to stress and emotional regulation, potentially improving symptoms of SAD. Brain scanning experiments show ketamine alters connectivity in a brain region called the anterior insular cortex , which is thought to play a key role in social emotions. Studies suggest that this region may become dysfunctional in SAD, but ketamine could help restore its normal function and reduce SAD symptoms. Ketamine also lowers the activity of the amygdala , a brain region linked to fear and the body’s stress response. In people with anxiety, the amygdala is often overactive. Ketamine may help by calming this overactivity and reducing feelings of fear. Benefits of Ketamine for SAD Ketamine offers several benefits for treating SAD . One of its most significant advantages is its rapid action , often providing relief within hours, compared to the weeks or months traditional antidepressants can take. Additionally, ketamine has shown sustained effects , with a single dose sometimes improving symptoms for days or even weeks. Whereas common anti-anxiety medications, such as antidepressants, are used every day, ketamine is used more infrequently . A typical dosing regime involves twice-weekly sessions for the first four weeks, with more spaced-out sessions thereafter. This prevents people from developing tolerance to the drug, so they don’t experience withdrawal symptoms once they stop taking medication. However, ketamine does have an abuse potential , and ketamine addiction can lead to severe health consequences. For this reason, it’s essential to use ketamine in carefully controlled clinical environments under medical supervision, such as our clinic in Albany. Typical anti-anxiety medication is also associated with side effects that affect daily function, such as weight gain or sexual dysfunction . Ketamine, on the other hand, has mild side effects that generally wear off once the drug is cleared from the system. These include: Dizziness Decreased heart rate and blood pressure Drowsiness Nausea Research Supporting Ketamine for Social Anxiety A clinical trial from Yale University found ketamine infusions significantly decreased measures of social phobia in anxiety patients, compared to a placebo drug. The difference in improvement was significant from two days post-treatment and lasted up to the two-week follow-up. In another study from the University of Otago, patients with both generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and SAD had significantly improved symptoms two weeks following ketamine treatment. These patients had been previously non-responsive to other therapies. Is Ketamine Therapy Right for You? Ketamine therapy is not suitable for everyone, but it can be highly effective for those who have not found relief with traditional treatments. You may be a good candidate if: You have been diagnosed with SAD, or another severe form of anxiety Conventional medications or therapies have not provided sufficient relief You are seeking a treatment with faster results However, ketamine therapy may not be recommended if you have: A current or past history of substance abuse You have specific liver or heart conditions You have a history of psychosis At The Albany Clinic, our experienced providers will carefully evaluate your medical history to determine if ketamine therapy is the best option for you. Building a Social Anxiety Treatment Plan at The Albany Clinic Step 1: Initial Consultation Your journey begins with a complimentary consultation to discuss whether ketamine therapy is suitable for you. During this session, our team will answer your questions, assess your mental health history, and develop a personalized treatment plan aligned with your recovery goals. Step 2: Ketamine Infusion Therapy Infusion sessions at The Albany Clinic are conducted in a modern , calming environment designed to put you at ease. Patients are provided with headphones , eye masks , and curated music playlists , though you are welcome to bring your own music if preferred. Each infusion session lasts about 40 minutes , during which time you’ll receive an injection of ketamine directly into the bloodstream through a vein. A dedicated provider will be present throughout your session to monitor your safety and comfort. Step 3: Lifestyle Adjustments and Aftercare Most patients require a series of treatments for optimal results. However, successful management of social anxiety extends beyond therapy sessions. Our team offers tailored aftercare guidance to help you integrate the positive effects of ketamine therapy into your daily life, promoting long-term well-being.  Interested? If you are struggling with social anxiety disorder and looking for an innovative approach to enhance your mental health, The Albany Clinic in Albany, NY, offers expert-led ketamine therapy designed to meet your needs. Our compassionate team is committed to providing evidence-based treatment plans to help you regain control and live a fulfilling life. To find out if ketamine therapy is the right choice for you, schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our specialists today.
By Kimberly Mercille January 22, 2025
In this article, we’ll explore how TMS and antidepressants work, compare their effectiveness, safety, and costs, and help you determine which treatment might be right for you. Whether you’re considering TMS, antidepressants, or a combination of both, understanding your options can empower you to make an informed decision about your mental health journey.