At Chrysalis Psychiatry, we provide NeuroStar Advanced TMS Therapy to patients in Santa Fe with a clear and supportive plan, from candidacy and comfort settings to scheduling and progress tracking. Our goal is to offer an evidence-informed, non-invasive option for major depressive disorder when standard medications have not led to meaningful relief.
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is a non-invasive form of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) that delivers focused magnetic pulses to mood-regulation areas of the brain. Sessions occur in a comfortable outpatient setting without the need for anesthesia or surgery. A typical course involves weekday visits over about seven weeks, with each session lasting about 19 minutes. You remain awake, can drive after, and we tailor the magnetic coil placement and intensity to your own comfort and clinical goals.
NeuroStar TMS therapy uses MRI-like magnetic pulses at the scalp to stimulate targeted neurons involved in mood. The treatment is delivered entirely externally; no incisions, no needles, and no systemic circulation. During your mapping session, we first identify the optimal treatment location and your individualized dose. Most people describe a tapping sensation at the treatment site; our team then fine-tunes settings to balance comfort and therapeutic engagement throughout care.
Patients will likely have questions about NeuroStar TMS therapy during an initial consultation. Outcomes data show that many adults with major depressive disorder experience meaningful improvement after a full course of treatment. In a large real-world outcomes registry, 83 percent of patients experienced improvement with NeuroStar TMS (Sackeim HA, et al., 2020. J Affective Disorders, 277:65-74), and the duration of benefits in responders varies but often can last up to a year or longer (Dunner DL, et al., 2014. J Clin Psychiatry, 75:1394-1401). Results typically emerge over four to six weeks, and we track progress with structured symptom check-ins so you can see change over time.
Many insurers cover NeuroStar treatment for major depressive disorder when specific criteria are met. Pre-treatment requirements can vary, but commonly include:
Our team verifies benefits before you begin, explains any out-of-pocket costs, and guides you through authorization steps. Please note that we do not accept Cigna insurance. If coverage is unavailable, we will discuss alternatives and transparent payment options.
NeuroStar Advanced TMS therapy has a moderate risk profile. The most common sensations are temporary scalp discomfort or a mild headache near the coil site during or shortly after sessions. Many people describe a rhythmic tapping at the treatment site that lessens as they acclimate. We start at a tolerable intensity, offer ear protection, adjust positioning to avoid “hot spots,” and can make small changes in real time to help you stay comfortable. Seizure is a rare risk; and people with certain neurological conditions, such as epilepsy may be ineligible. We also review your medical history, implanted devices, medications, and sleep patterns to ensure suitability.
Choosing care is easier when the pathway is clear. If you are in Santa Fe and evaluating whether to sign up for NeuroStar Advanced TMS therapy, we will walk you through candidacy, schedule, insurance requirements, and comfort strategies. Let us coordinate a plan that aligns with your goals. Call Chrysalis Psychiatry and learn how you can take back your life!