Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain to improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved TMS for the indications of major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults ages 18 to 70. TMS is used when medication treatments or therapies haven’t been effective. Many insurance plans cover TMS if you have not responded to traditional treatment options. Vail Health Behavioral Health now accepts Cigna and Medicare for TMS treatment.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n During a TMS session, a magnetic coil is placed on the scalp and the device delivers a series of short magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells located in the region of the brain involved in depression and anxiety. These pulses generate an electrical current that causes the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. TMS allows neurons to change the way they communicate with each other, forming new communication pathways and new patterns of behavior. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nHow Does TMS Work?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n