You may be wondering if TMS therapy causes brain damage. When you are exploring TMS therapy, it is natural to wonder about safety and side-effects, especially anything related to your brain. Although some treatments that use brain stimulation to reverse depression do carry an increased risk of memory loss, TMS therapy, which is non-invasive and does not require anesthesia, does not carry that risk. We understand why you want clear, trustworthy information so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
At Chrysalis Psychiatry, we use NeuroStar TMS to deliver focused magnetic pulses to a carefully mapped area of the brain associated with mood regulation. This non-invasive approach does not require anesthesia or surgery, and appointments take place in a comfortable outpatient setting. Our role is to provide context, answer your questions with care, and help you decide whether this treatment could support your recovery plan.
NeuroStar TMS works by directing brief, MRI-like magnetic pulses to a targeted region on the scalp. These pulses are designed to modulate neural brain activity involved in mood without piercing the skin or entering the bloodstream. Because the stimulation is external, there is no incision, no implants, and no need for sedation. You remain awake, seated, and able to resume your day after each session.
The treatment protocol typically involves a series of short visits over several weeks, with each session lasting about nineteen minutes. Many people describe a tapping sensation on the scalp during the procedure. As your providers, we tailor placement and intensity to your comfort and clinical needs, and we monitor your progress throughout this transcranial magnetic stimulation course.
A common worry is whether repeated TMS sessions could harm brain tissue. Current safety data and device labeling indicate that non-invasive brain stimulation with NeuroStar is not associated with structural brain damage. That said, NeuroStar, like any medical treatment, carries a moderate risk of side effects. The most frequently reported effects include scalp discomfort or headache around the treatment site, which are usually temporary and manageable.
Seizure is an extremely rare risk. People with certain neurological conditions, such as epilepsy, may be ineligible for treatment, and this is one reason your health history matters. During your consultation, we will review your medications, sleep patterns, and medical conditions to assess suitability and reduce risk. Though there is no potential for brain damage, we will be transparent about whether the benefits outweigh the risks for you and discuss alternatives if NeuroStar is not the right fit.
If you are concerned about safety, and whether TMS therapy can ever cause brain damage, we invite you to speak with us directly about your situation, goals, and questions. Our providers are committed to a careful, criteria-based evaluation and a treatment experience that emphasizes comfort and transparency. To explore whether TMS therapy fits your plan, contact our dedicated mental health care team at Chrysalis Psychiatry to schedule a consultation.
