You Can Overcome Depression Symptoms
MeRT Treatment is Drug-Free, Non-Invasive, and Lasting
MeRT: A Breakthrough Depression Treatment
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.”
– MeRT Patient
Depression can take over your life and make even the simplest tasks seem overwhelming. And if you feel you’ve tried everything and nothing is working, it can make the depression even worse.
We understand. That’s why we offer MeRT treatment for depression.
MeRT stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy, a non-invasive, drug-free, gentle treatment to improve brain function and communication. It’s a highly customized use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) based on sophisticated diagnostics.
Studies show that altered neural circuits in the brain can cause changes in brain function and contribute to depression. MeRT works directly on these altered brainwaves to get them back in sync.
After receiving MeRT treatment, many patients report considerable relief from their depression symptoms. And some have even been able to go off their medications entirely.
MeRT is FDA-cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder and Treatment-Resistant Depression.
Contact our New Patient Coordinator
Or fill in the form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book an initial consultation.
MeRT Focuses on Your Specific Depression Symptoms
Per the National Institute of Mental Health, Major Depressive Disorder affects approximately 17.3 million American adults in a given year. Yet, we know that depression affects everyone differently — because your brain is unique.
That’s what makes MeRT so revolutionary: we tailor MeRT protocols to each patient. It starts with a comprehensive analysis of your brainwave patterns to determine where they are out of sync. We then plan a tailored treatment program using magnetic waves to stimulate those specifically targeted areas of the brain.
MeRT is painless and completely non-invasive. We use no drugs or anesthesia, and you are fully conscious throughout the treatment. With MeRT, we can address your specific depression symptoms and help relieve them.
And MeRT is not just effective — it’s also LASTING. That can mean a far higher quality of life as you’re freed from the fog of depression.
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 988 Suicide Prevention Lifeline by simply dialing 988.
How MeRT Treatment Works to Relieve Depression Symptoms
What makes MeRT such a breakthrough treatment is the way we analyze each patient’s brainwave patterns. We do this using a qEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram), also known as brain mapping.
Studies have shown that patients with Major Depressive Disorder have clearly visible markers in their EEG studies. Once we identify the precise brain imbalance (which is often an imbalance between the left and right hemispheres), we can then strengthen the brainwave activity with targeted TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation).
TMS has been used for years to treat depression. However, standard TMS usually targets a single location in the brain with one frequency. MeRT is much more tailored to address your specific brain patterns.
What to Expect: The Steps of MeRT Treatment for Depression
MeRT is a relatively new treatment, and you may have many questions about whether it’s right for your depression symptoms. We understand — and that’s why your first step is a simple phone consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. during this free consultation, you can discuss your symptoms and history, including any treatments you have already tried or that are ongoing. You can ask all the questions you want, and she will explain our protocols, fees, and treatment details.
Initial Testing and Consultation
If, after your phone consultation, you want to take the next step, we can set up two appointments, one for testing and one for a doctor’s consultation. Each appointment will take 45 minutes to an hour.
At the first appointment, our neurotechnician will perform a qEEG and an EKG. These simple, painless tests will enable us to see exactly what is happening in your brain.
A few days later, after our doctor and the scientific team have analyzed your test results, you will have a one-on-one consultation with the doctor. You can come in for this appointment or attend virtually. The doctor will go over the test results with you and answer questions. Then, together, you’ll determine whether you are a candidate for treatment.
Treatment Period
If you and the doctor decide to move forward, we will then schedule your TMS treatment in two-week increments. We perform treatments daily, Monday to Friday, and a typical treatment session takes about 45 minutes.
Each day, you will sit in a comfortable chair while the neurotechnician administers treatment using a hand-held magnet near the scalp. We deliver the magnetic impulses for 6-8 seconds each minute, and you may feel a slight sensation during treatment. This feels like gentle taps on the head, and it’s not at all painful.
After two weeks of treatment, we will perform a new qEEG to note changes and make any modifications if needed. The doctor will also have regular follow-up meetings with you to monitor and manage your progress.
MeRT treatments usually run from 6 to 8 weeks. In some cases, however, we recommend additional treatment to get the best possible results. Each individual is unique, and protocols may vary.
Contact our New Patient Coordinator
Or fill in the form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book an initial consultation.
Dr. Paiman is a Chicago native and has lived in the North Shore area for over 20 years. She completed her medical education at Ascension St. Mary’s, serving the underserved population. She is happily married with two children and enjoys outdoor activities, including nature walks and exploring life with her family.
Education and Certifications
Board-Certified: Family Medicine (ABFM)
Residency: Family Medicine, Ascension, St. Mary’s & Elizabeth Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Medical Education: Avalon University School of Medicine
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin, Green Bay, WI – Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Member: Association of American Family Physicians, Illinois Family Physicians, IAFP Candidate
Our Medical Director, Dr. Mina Paiman
Mina Paiman, MD, is board-certified in Family Medicine with a focus on developmental delays/disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She has helped families learn to identify when their children are not meeting milestones and emotionally supports them through this process, as it’s a very difficult time for coping and acceptance.
Doing this work with ASD opened her heart to a community of children and parents needing compassionate education and assistance. Dr. Paiman learned the challenges these families face, and she continues to learn about new services where families can receive support through early intervention, developmental pediatrician referrals, and diagnostic testing.
Dr. Paiman initially discovered the Brain Treatment Center after hearing about their treatment modalities for traumatic brain injury (TBI). This was very personal, as her husband, a United States Army veteran, received a TBI in Afghanistan. She learned more about the conditions our heroes suffer from, like PTSD, depression, and TBIs, and how MeRT can drastically improve symptoms.
From there, Dr. Paiman discovered how MeRT can help many conditions. She has since worked with adults and children suffering from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, COVID-19, insomnia, and more.
She has an extensive history of working in the healthcare field, including a career as a Registered Nurse prior to pursuing medicine. As a nurse, she learned the importance of bedside manner. Currently, she is a candidate for Early Intervention mentor roles.
Read What a Few MeRT Patients Have to Say!
Testimonials from Actual MeRT Patients
“After trying various treatments and conducting thorough research, we decided to travel from our home to the Brain Treatment Center. It was the BEST decision we could have made for our six-year-old son, who has severe apraxia and is on the spectrum.
“After six weeks of MeRT treatment, our son said his name for the first time! He has been more flexible in his daily schedule, OCD tendencies have lessened tremendously, and he does not become as anxious as he had previously experienced in new places and surroundings.
“We cannot thank the doctor and staff enough for the kindness, care, and genuine concern they have shown (and continue to show) our son and our family. They are always available for questions and concerns, and they truly support all patients and their families. For our family, MeRT and the Brain Treatment Center have been a journey worth the endeavor!”
the Korczak family
Parents of a child with autism“I’m back! My TBI turned me into someone I barely recognized. I was depressed, mean, and short-tempered. And I pushed through life filled with frustration and a deep sense of sadness that this was it. I just had to keep pushing through life with an overwhelming tiredness. I’m so glad I was wrong, and I think my direct reports and family are even more thankful. This treatment changed everything, and I am forever thankful.”
41-year-old male with TBI
Executive“We are dropping a line to thank you for your help last summer with Immanuel. We are RVing this weekend and marveling at how well Immanuel now socializes with other children at the campsite. He is also at a private school, and he is able to succeed without extra support.
“His occupational therapist has been amazed, as well. She evaluated him before he started treatment with you but started therapy AFTER. She says that he has been crushing the prescribed program — he scored significantly above expectations at the latest eval, and he is speeding through the stages.
“We are thrilled by Immanuel’s progress. It touches our hearts more than anything—that he has friends now. Thank you for making this treatment available and for guiding us through the process.”
David and Debbie J.
Parents of a child with Autism“It was a great experience with a very friendly and professional staff! When we first brought our child to the clinic, we expected some progress with her speech skills, but we ended up getting results in other unexpected areas. The first change we saw with our daughter was that she started to make eye contact — then she started to be more aware of her surroundings. Second, she stopped stemming, and that was the biggest change for her. Third, but not least, she started to socialize and play with other children!”
Beatriz Yanez
Mother of a child with autism“In the ensuing months after the concussion, I just wasn’t myself. My academics began to suffer as well. I didn’t feel right. My EEG showed me that something had physically changed with how my brain functioned. After three days of treatment, I felt substantially better. After two weeks, I felt like I did before my injury. MeRT was life-changing.”
21-year-old female with TBI
Collegiate Soccer Player“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
Patient“I’ve made significant progress in cognitive ability, stress tolerance, and mental clarity. I have been able to handle decisions much better and think clearer. And I have been able to significantly decrease conflict with my family and actually lead much better.”
Male with TBI
ExecutiveContact Us for More Information about Depression Treatment with MeRT
We would be honored to help you free yourself from the fog of depression and achieve a higher quality of life. Yet we know that this is not a light decision for you. After all, you may have tried many therapies and medications but haven’t seen the results you hoped for.
That’s why your first step is a free, no-obligation consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. She will take the time to listen, answer questions, explain our treatment protocols, and more.
We’ve seen some astonishing results with MeRT treatment for depression. And we’d love nothing more than to help you achieve results, too. So go ahead. Make the call. It could be the first step to a whole new life, free of depression.
Or fill in the form below, and we will contact you.
Contact Form
Insurance Coverage and Payment Options
Our clinic will be able to provide you with all the documents you would need to submit to your health insurance company for any possible reimbursement.
There have been some patients who have reported receiving some reimbursement for EEGs, clinical evaluations, and treatment, but this is largely dependent on your type of health coverage. Medicare patients have reported that their coverage does not reimburse for the treatment itself.
We accept all major credit cards, and you can also apply for CareCredit.
