Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy has gained significant attention as an effective treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) and other mental health conditions, especially for individuals who haven’t found relief through traditional methods like medication or talk therapy. While many patients experience lasting benefits after completing a full course of TMS, some may need maintenance treatments to prevent symptoms from returning.
So, how often do you really need maintenance TMS treatments—and what does the process entail? Let’s break it down.
What Are Maintenance TMS Treatments?
After completing the initial series of TMS sessions (typically 5 sessions per week for 4 to 6 weeks), some patients may experience full symptom relief, while others may see significant improvement but find that symptoms gradually return over time. In these cases, maintenance TMS can help sustain the benefits gained from the initial therapy.
Maintenance TMS involves periodic follow-up sessions that are spaced out over time. These sessions are generally shorter and less frequent than the initial round of treatments and are intended to prevent relapse and maintain the improvements achieved.
When Are Maintenance Sessions Needed?
The need for maintenance TMS treatments varies from person to person. Several factors can influence this decision, including:
- Severity of the condition
- Length of time since initial treatment
- Response to the initial TMS therapy
- Personal or environmental stressors
Your healthcare provider will work closely with you to monitor your progress and determine whether maintenance sessions are necessary. Many clinics use ongoing mental health assessments and clinical scales to measure any changes in mood or function and guide decisions on the need for follow-up sessions.
How Often Should You Get Maintenance TMS?
There is no one-size-fits-all schedule for maintenance TMS. However, some common approaches include:
- Once a week for the first month after the initial treatment ends
- Bi-weekly or monthly sessions after the first month
- “Booster” sessions only when symptoms begin to return
While some individuals may never need maintenance therapy, others might benefit from periodic sessions every few months to stay symptom-free. The frequency of maintenance TMS is fully personalized to your ongoing needs and wellness goals.
Important Note: Maintenance TMS Is Not Covered by Insurance
It’s crucial to be upfront about a key point: Maintenance TMS is not covered by insurance. This is an out-of-pocket (OOP) cost, and patients are required to pay for these maintenance sessions themselves.
However, repeat acute series (the initial 36 treatments that make up the acute phase) are typically covered by insurance if at least 50% improvement was achieved during the first round of treatment and if the benefits were sustained for a period of time. Insurance coverage for repeat treatments generally kicks in 3 months after the first series if these criteria are met.
Benefits of Maintenance TMS
Despite being an out-of-pocket expense, maintenance TMS offers several advantages:
- Sustains mood improvements and mental clarity
- Helps manage new stressors or life events
- Prevents full relapse of symptoms
- Provides a non-drug-based option for long-term mental health support
What to Expect During Maintenance Sessions
Just like your initial TMS sessions, maintenance treatments are:
- Non-invasive
- Done in a clinic setting
- Typically 20-30 minutes long
- Followed by no downtime—you can return to work or other activities immediately after the session
Conclusion: Maintain Your Mental Wellness with TMS Solutions
Maintenance TMS treatments can play an essential role in long-term mental health management, particularly for those who responded well to their initial therapy. Whether you need occasional follow-up sessions or a more regular maintenance schedule, the key is to work with a provider who tailors your treatment plan to your unique needs.
At TMS Solutions, we offer personalized care and ongoing support to help you maintain your mental wellness long after your first round of treatment. While maintenance sessions are not covered by insurance, we are here to guide you through your healing journey, every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about maintenance TMS and how we can help you stay on the path to a healthier, happier life.