Does TMS Work for OCD? What the Research Shows
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is more than just habits or quirks. It’s a mental health condition that causes intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that can take over daily life. People with OCD often know their thoughts and rituals don’t make sense, but they feel powerless to stop them.
Traditional treatments like therapy and medication help many patients. But for others, the relief is incomplete or doesn’t come at all. If you or a loved one has struggled with OCD despite trying different treatments, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may offer new hope.
At Modern Psychiatry in Toms River, NJ, we provide TMS therapy as an advanced option for patients living with OCD.
How TMS Works for OCD
TMS, short for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain linked to mood and behavior. In patients with OCD, certain brain circuits tend to be overactive, which contributes to intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
By targeting these areas, TMS helps reset brain activity and reduce symptoms. Over time, this can give patients more control over their thoughts and behaviors.
What the Research Says
TMS is FDA-approved for OCD, which means studies have shown it is both safe and effective. Here are some highlights from research:
- Symptom reduction: Clinical trials show that many patients experience a significant drop in OCD symptoms after a full course of TMS.
- Improved daily function: Patients report fewer compulsions and less interference with work, relationships, and daily tasks.
- Lasting results: For many people, the benefits continue long after treatment ends, though some return for booster sessions if symptoms reappear.
It’s important to remember that results vary. Some patients notice big improvements, while others experience more gradual progress.
What Patients Can Expect
At Modern Psychiatry in Toms River, NJ, your TMS journey begins with a full evaluation. If TMS is a good fit, here’s what you can expect:
- A personalized treatment plan – We’ll map out the brain areas to target for OCD symptoms.
- Quick sessions – Each appointment lasts about 20 minutes, five days a week, for around six weeks.
- Comfortable experience – Patients sit in a chair, and most describe the feeling as a light tapping on the head.
- No downtime – You can return to work, school, or errands right after your session.
Some patients start to notice improvement within the first few weeks, while others see changes closer to the end of the treatment course.
Benefits of TMS for OCD
Patients who receive TMS for OCD often report:
- Fewer intrusive thoughts
- Reduced need to perform repetitive rituals
- Less anxiety and distress linked to obsessions
- Greater ability to enjoy daily life
These improvements can make a big difference in relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life.
FAQs About TMS for OCD
Q: Is TMS safe for OCD?
A: Yes. TMS is FDA-approved and has been used safely in clinics across the country. The most common side effect is mild scalp discomfort during treatment.
Q: Will insurance cover TMS for OCD?
A: Coverage for OCD varies by plan. Some insurers cover it, while others are still reviewing policies. Our Toms River team will check your benefits and explain your options.
Q: Does TMS cure OCD?
A: TMS is not a cure, but it can greatly reduce symptoms and make them easier to manage. Many patients experience lasting relief.
Q: Can I do therapy while getting TMS?
A: Yes. In fact, combining TMS with therapy often produces even better results.
Why Choose Modern Psychiatry in Toms River, NJ
Not every clinic offers TMS, and even fewer have experience treating both depression and OCD. At Modern Psychiatry, our team is trained to deliver TMS therapy in a comfortable, supportive environment.
We’re proud to make this advanced treatment available right here in Toms River. That means patients in Ocean County don’t have to travel far to access cutting-edge care.
Taking Control of OCD
If OCD has taken over your life and other treatments haven’t worked, it may be time to explore TMS therapy. At Modern Psychiatry in Toms River, NJ, we’ve seen how TMS can help patients regain control and find freedom from obsessive thoughts and compulsions.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn whether TMS is the right option for you. Relief is possible — and it may be closer than you think.
