FDA-approved TMS Therapy for Depression in Glenview, IL
You Can Overcome Depression Symptoms Without Medication or Surgery
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a drug-free, FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for Major Depressive Disorder. It uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. And it does this without medication or surgery.
If depression hasn’t improved with antidepressants or therapy alone, TMS may offer a new path forward.
An Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment for Depression
At Brain Treatment Center Glenview, we help adults throughout Glenview, Chicago, and the North Shore find lasting relief from depression. Depression can make even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming—especially when medications haven’t helped or caused unwanted side effects.
TMS is an FDA-approved treatment for Major Depressive Disorder that works by stimulating specific areas of the brain linked to mood and motivation. Research shows that depression is often associated with reduced activity in these regions. TMS targets those circuits directly, helping restore healthier brain activity over time.
Many patients report meaningful improvement in mood, energy, sleep, and focus—and some are able to reduce or discontinue antidepressant medications under medical supervision.
I felt like I was alone, even though I was surrounded by love and care. It was just a cloud that would linger over my life every now and again. The Brain Treatment Center helped me better understand what was going on in my head. And after a month of treatment I was grateful to be depression-free and medication-free for the first time in my life.”
– Depression treatment Patient
TMS is FDA-approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Personalized TMS Care for Depression
Major Depressive Disorder affects millions of adults each year, yet no two people experience depression the same way.
That’s why we personalize our approach to TMS. Treatment begins with a comprehensive clinical evaluation and, when appropriate, specific brain diagnostics to better understand how depression is affecting your brain function. This allows your care team to tailor stimulation parameters and monitor progress throughout treatment.
TMS is painless, non-invasive, and does not require anesthesia. You remain fully awake during sessions and can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Read more about how we build a personalized TMS plan for depression in our latest article, Personalized TMS for Depression in Glenview, IL
Symptoms of Depression
As you have read, your depression symptoms will be unique to you. However, here are some of the most common symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder (also called Clinical Depression):
- Overwhelming feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Trouble completing day-to-day tasks
- Experiencing prolonged periods of depression lasting more than two weeks
- Sudden emotional outbursts
- Unexplained weight fluctuations
- Agitation or irritability
- Decreased performance in school or work
- Lowered self-esteem
- Lack of interest in social activities, work, or relationships
- Isolation from others
- Extreme fatigue — both physically and mentally
- Irregular sleep patterns or issues with sleeping
- Difficulty focusing or recalling information
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Ruminating over past events or failures
- Anxiety
- Physical symptoms such as headaches, neck or back pain
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the US. If you or someone close to you is feeling suicidal, call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline by dialing 988.
If you’re also experiencing symptoms of anxiety or PTSD alongside depression, we offer related treatment support for anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder.
How TMS Works to Treat Depression
TMS uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression—most commonly regions involved in mood regulation and executive function.
Unlike medications, TMS does not affect the entire body. Instead, it works directly on the neural circuits associated with depression. Treatment is delivered over multiple sessions, allowing changes in brain activity to build gradually and sustainably.
TMS has been used for years in the treatment of depression and is supported by extensive clinical research.
Frequently Asked Questions about TMS Treatment for Depression
How long does TMS treatment take?
TMS sessions typically last 30–45 minutes and are usually scheduled Monday through Friday. Most treatment plans run several weeks, though the exact timeline depends on the individual.
Is TMS covered by insurance?
Many major insurance plans cover TMS for depression when medical necessity criteria are met, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, Cigna, Anthem, Medicare, and TRICARE West. Our team verifies your specific benefits during intake.
Does TMS require anesthesia or downtime?
No. TMS is painless and non-invasive, with no anesthesia required. You’re fully awake throughout each session and can return to your normal activities immediately afterward.
How is TMS different from antidepressant medication?
Unlike medication, which affects the entire body, TMS works directly on the neural circuits linked to depression. It’s delivered over multiple sessions, allowing changes in brain activity to build gradually.
Is TMS effective for treatment-resistant depression?
Yes. TMS is FDA-approved to treat both Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression, and it has been studied and used in clinical settings for years.
What to Expect with TMS Treatment
Step 1: Initial Consultation
Your first step is a phone consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. This is a no-obligation conversation where you can discuss symptoms, treatment history, and ask questions about TMS.
Step 2: Evaluation & Planning
If appropriate, you’ll meet with a clinician for a comprehensive evaluation. This helps determine whether TMS is a good fit for your depression and allows us to design your treatment plan.
Step 3: TMS Treatment
TMS sessions are typically performed Monday through Friday. During treatment, you’ll sit comfortably while a technician delivers gentle magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain. Sessions usually last about 30–45 minutes.
Step 4: Ongoing Monitoring
Your progress is monitored throughout treatment, with adjustments made as needed to support the best possible outcome.
Most treatment plans last several weeks, though timing varies by individual.
Insurance and Coverage
TMS is covered by many major insurance plans when medical necessity criteria are met. Our team verifies benefits individually and helps guide you through the approval process. Plans we accept include:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL)
- Cigna
- Anthem
- Medicare
- TRICARE West (TriWest)
Coverage varies by plan, diagnosis, and treatment history. Insurance verification is completed during intake. Learn more about our TRICARE coverage for depression treatment or Medicare coverage for depression treatment.
Flexible Payment Options with CareCredit
If insurance coverage is not available or does not apply, we offer CareCredit® as a financing option. CareCredit allows qualified patients to spread treatment costs over time with flexible monthly payment plans. Prequalification is quick and does not affect your credit score. Our New Patient Coordinator can help you understand whether CareCredit may be a good option for your situation.
Our Medical Director, Dr. Mina Paiman
Dr. Mina Paiman is board-certified in Family Medicine and serves as Medical Director at Brain Treatment Center Glenview. She brings years of clinical experience and a compassionate, patient-centered approach to care.
Dr. Paiman works closely with patients experiencing depression and other neurological concerns, helping guide treatment decisions and support long-term recovery. Her background in nursing and medicine gives her a deep appreciation for both clinical excellence and bedside care.
Patient Experiences with Depression Treatment
“I struggled through years of sleeplessness, constant worry, and struggles with everyday life. Halfway through my first treatment plan, my spirit was revived.
“My loved ones, acquaintances, and people I met started to comment on my positivity and overall demeanor. I went from losing hope to cherishing every moment.”
John G.
“I just finished six weeks of their specialized form of TMS treatment, and it is life-changing. If your depression or anxiety has been resistant to medications, therapy, or other forms of treatment, I highly recommend the Brain Treatment Center.”
Mary Ann E.
“I felt like I was alone, even though I was surrounded by love and care. It was just a cloud that would linger over my life every now and again.
“The Brain Treatment Center helped me better understand what was going on in my head. And after a month of treatment, I was grateful to be depression-free and medication-free for the first time in my life.”
Jim
Contact Our New Patient Coordinator
If you’re exploring non-invasive treatment options for depression, our New Patient Coordinator is here to help. She can answer questions, explain next steps, and help you determine whether TMS may be right for you.
Or fill in the form below, and we will contact you.
