Relief for Depression and Treatment-Resistant Depression

Evidence-Based, Non-invasive, and Drug-free Magnetic Stimulation Therapy

 

We offer FDA-approved rTMS therapy for Major Depressive Disorder, along with individualized, EEG-guided approaches used at our clinic. These non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical options may be appropriate for individuals who have not found relief with medication or have experienced unwanted side effects.

rTMS: A Gentle but Effective Treatment for Depression

Non-Invasive, Medication-Free Care

At Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach, we offer FDA-approved rTMS therapy for Major Depressive Disorder. rTMS (repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option that may be appropriate for individuals who have not experienced sufficient relief from antidepressant medications or who have difficulty tolerating side effects.

Our team also offers individualized, EEG-guided approaches used at our clinic to support select patients as part of a comprehensive care plan.

Depression can affect sleep, appetite, energy levels, concentration, motivation, and self-esteem. In some cases, it may also be associated with thoughts of hopelessness or despair. If symptoms are ongoing or worsening, seeking care is an important step.

According to the Mayo Clinic, Major Depressive Disorder is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide and affects millions of individuals each year. Depression is a clinical condition that influences how a person feels, thinks, and functions, and it can significantly impact quality of life when left untreated.

 

Call Our New Patient
Coordinator to Learn More

949-418-1108

Or fill out the form below and we will contact you 

Signs that you may be experiencing Depression include:

  • Feeling down or depressed longer than a few weeks
  • Inability to complete everyday activities
  • Low energy levels; no motivation
  • Anger, or emotional outbursts
  • Irritability
  • Poor performance at work or school
  • Feelings of isolation
  • Loss of interest in social activities, relationships, etc.
  • Sleeping too much or sleeping too little
  • Trouble concentrating or remembering things
  • Feeling guilty or worthless
  • Thinking about past events or failures
  • Anxiety
  • Back or neck pain
  • Headaches
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Suicide attempts

Depression, also referred to as Clinical Depression or Major Depressive Disorder, can have symptoms that range in type and severity for different people. While antidepressant medication can help some people, it doesn’t help everyone and isn’t always the right treatment for everybody. Medication can also have unpleasant side effects, both short-term and long-term, that are not tolerated well. 

Statistics show that 8% to 10% of adults who are depressed will die by suicide; it’s become the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. So if you feel that you or someone close to you are experiencing Depression, it is incredibly important to act and seek medical help.

IF YOU ARE FEELING SUICIDAL, PLEASE CALL 911. YOU CAN ALSO CALL THE NATIONAL SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE AT 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255).

Brain-Based Treatment Options for Depression

FDA-approved rTMS therapy for Major Depressive Disorder, as well as individualized, EEG-guided treatment approaches used at our clinic for select patients. These treatments use gentle magnetic stimulation to target specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.

Research has shown that depression is often associated with changes in brain activity, including imbalances between the left and right hemispheres. rTMS is designed to modulate these activity patterns in a controlled, non-pharmaceutical way.

MeRT® (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) is an individualized, EEG-guided approach developed at our Newport Beach center. When used, MeRT incorporates diagnostic information such as quantitative EEG data to inform treatment planning. This allows physicians to tailor stimulation parameters based on each patient’s unique brain activity patterns.

Both approaches are non-invasive and medication-free. Determining whether rTMS, an individualized EEG-guided approach, or another treatment option is appropriate depends on clinical evaluation and individual patient factors.

woman getting EEG-guided rTMS treatment for cognitive performance and mental health

For anyone suffering from depression, anxiety, and other symptoms, I highly recommend trying MeRT at the Brain Treatment Center. My adult son who has suffered from both problems his entire life, and has been on medication, realized a positive change after the first visit. We saw dramatic improvement after each visit.  This technology is truly a magic bullet for the right candidate. The staff is professional and friendly. The facilities are equally professional. I would highly recommend The Brain Treatment Center.” – Harold H.

 

For me, depression was the constant feeling of, ‘I want to quit’ and retreat to my home, except I already would be home. MeRT helped me shed this feeling in less that 2 weeks. I couldn’t believe I had spent so many years feeling this way!” — Nancy P.

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Call Us for More Information:
949-806-3396

We are proud to service our uniformed Service Members and their Families at our Brain Treatment Center.

Brain Treatment Center Newport Beach is honored to serve uniformed service members, veterans, and their families.

We offer FDA-approved rTMS therapy for individuals experiencing Major Depressive Disorder, including those who have not found adequate relief with medication or who cannot tolerate side effects.

Our clinic is in-network with TRICARE Insurance for rTMS therapy, allowing eligible service members and their dependents to access care based on plan coverage and medical necessity.

Read more about Tricare Coverage

Our New Patient Coordinator is here to help

She can explain how MeRT works, answer any questions you have, explain our procedures, discuss fees, scheduling and address any concerns.

Give us a call or fill out the form here and we will contact you at a convenient time.

 

Call our New Patient Coordinator at

(949) 418-1108

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rTMS Effectiveness in Treating Depression Symptoms: Research Studies

Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression is based on years of independent, published research studies. Here are some of the many studies showing the effectiveness of rTMS in depression treatment:

TMS Should Be Considered as First-Line Treatment For Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder, in Psychiatric News, October 2022. 

The article’s author, Richard A. Bermudes, reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS, and wrote this: 

“As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered, in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”

A retrospective chart review to assess the impact of alpha- guided transcranial magnetic stimulation on symptoms of PTSD and depression in active-duty special operations service members, 21 June 2024. 

“This data provides a demonstration of significant reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms and safety with the application of a-rTMS in active-duty special operations military personnel. Expansion of targeted neuromodulation programs could be impactful for military and civilian populations.”

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of quality of life outcome measures in clinical practice, July 2013. 

This study found: “Conclusion: These data confirm that TMS is effective in the acute treatment of MDD in routine clinical practice settings. This symptom benefit is accompanied by statistically and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported QOL [quality of life] and functional status outcomes.”

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of acute treatment outcomes in clinical practice, Carpenter et al, 2012. 

This study found as its conclusion: “These data indicate that TMS is an effective treatment for those unable to benefit from initial antidepressant medication.”

Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression, May 2019.

“The clinical efficacy of TMS as an antidepressant has been well established. TMS is an innovative and promising treatment modality for patients with TRD [treatment-resistent depression].”

A naturalistic study of the efficacy and acceptability of rTMS in treating major depressive disorder in Australian youth, June 30, 2024.

“Results: A 4–7-week course of rTMS significantly reduce symptoms of self-reported depression (42.5% response) and clinician-assessed depression (40.7% response). Both anxiety and stress significantly reduced across the course of rTMS treatment and significant improvements to QoL and self-reported cognition were observed. Reported side effects following rTMS in youth included a mild headache and fatigue.

“Conclusions: The findings of this naturalistic study suggest that an acute course of rTMS provided in private clinical settings is safe and effective – resulting in similar response rates in youth patients as reported in adult patients. In real world practice, rTMS proves to be a well-tolerated and highly effective intervention for MDD in youth, across diverse clinical settings.

“Implications and Contribution: The findings of this naturalistic study suggest that in real world practice, rTMS proves to be a well-tolerated and highly effective intervention for treating depression and anxiety in youth (17–25-year-olds), with additional benefits to cognitive symptoms of depression and overall well-being.”

Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: the evidence thus far, August 2019. 

“rTMS is rapidly gaining popularity as a treatment modality for depression. There is growing evidence to support its use in patients with depression as a monotherapy or as adjunct with pharmacotherapy. Additionally, rTMS has been found to be safe and effective in pregnant patients and elderly patients…”

Experimental depression treatment is nearly 80% effective in controlled study, October 28, 2021.

“In a double-blind controlled study, high doses of magnetic brain stimulation, given on an accelerated timeline and individually targeted, caused remission in 79% of trial participants with severe depression.

“A new type of magnetic brain stimulation brought rapid remission to almost 80% of participants with severe depression in a study conducted at the Stanford University School of Medicine.

Psychiatric News Article: The Benefits of TMS in Treating Major Depressive Disorder

An article in the October 2022 issue of the Psychiatric News provides evidence that TMS should be considered as first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe Major Depressive Disorder.

The article’s author, Richard A. Bermudes, reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS, and wrote: 

As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”

Read the whole article on the Psychiatric News website. 

Call Our New Patient
Coordinator to Learn More

949-418-1108

Or fill out the form at the bottom of the page and we will contact you 

What to Expect During Evaluation and Treatment

Initial Evaluation

Your first visit includes a comprehensive clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing. During this appointment, our team will review your medical history and perform noninvasive assessments, including a quantitative EEG (qEEG) and an EKG. These tools help your provider better understand patterns of brain activity that may apply to treatment planning.

This initial appointment typically takes about 45 minutes.

A follow-up consultation is then scheduled to review your results, answer questions, and discuss potential treatment options. Dr. Julie Kim, Medical Director, oversees treatment planning for all patients.

For individuals who would like to review their diagnostic results before committing to treatment, we also offer the option of completing the qEEG/EKG and consultation first, followed by a discussion of next steps.

Assessment Period

If treatment is recommended, patients typically begin with a short assessment period designed to evaluate how they respond to therapy.

This assessment phase generally lasts two weeks and includes a series of treatment sessions. At the end of this period, a repeat qEEG may be performed to help assess changes and guide next steps in care.

Treatment Sessions

Each treatment session lasts approximately 45 minutes. During treatment, you will sit comfortably while gentle magnetic stimulation is delivered near the scalp using a handheld device. Most patients describe the sensation as mild and well-tolerated.

Treatment is non-invasive and does not require medication, sedation, or downtime.

Man receiving EEG-guided rTMS treatment for cognitive performance and mental health

Continuing Care

Response to treatment varies from person to person. Some individuals notice changes earlier, while others require additional time. Based on clinical evaluation and diagnostic findings, your provider may recommend continuing treatment beyond the initial assessment period.

Treatment plans are individualized and adjusted as needed, with periodic follow-up evaluations to monitor progress and guide care decisions.

As with any medical treatment, outcomes vary, and no results can be guaranteed.

More Testimonials

“For anyone suffering from depression, anxiety, and other symptoms, I highly recommend trying MeRT at the Brain Treatment Center. My adult son, who has suffered from both problems his entire life, and has been on medication, realized a positive change after the first visit. We saw dramatic improvement after each visit. This technology is truly a magic bullet. The staff is professional and friendly, and the facilities are equally professional. I would highly recommend The BTC” – Harold H. 

“I just finished 6 weeks of their specialized form of TMS treatment [MeRT] and it is life-changing. If your depression or anxiety have been resistant to medications, therapy or other forms of treatment, I highly recommend the Brain Treatment Center.” – Mary Ann E

“The team at the Brain Treatment Center are the most genuinely kind people you will ever meet. Truly a “first-rate” professional staff. And the MeRT treatment has made a HUGE quality of life, positive change for me. These sessions have turned my life around. My wife notices the positive changes in my depression, anxiety, irritability, and says I am fun to be around again. I can’t say enough great things about this place. Cyrus B.

“Diagnosed with PTSD, depression, and anxiety – the treatment makes me sleep longer and deeper than before treatment. My “dark feelings” fade away. I feel happy and calm.” – Sean K.

“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. BTC helped me better understand what was going on in my head. After a month of treatment, I was grateful to be depression free and medication free for the first time in my life.” – David T.

“My experience at the Brain Treatment Center was life changing. I struggled through years of sleeplessness, constant worry, and struggle 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. The staff, and team of medical providers are world class. I would urge anyone who is struggling with head injury, depression, PTSD, or any type of psychological struggle(s) to pick up the phone and inquire. Your best days are still to come.” -Jenny G.

“After attending two weeks of treatment I received this summer.  I noticed some very pleasant changes in my life. Some of the most noticeable were: decrease in my depressive thoughts, patterns of sleep, and anger. The decrease in their prevalence is a very welcomed feeling. Others around me and my family were expressing how my facial expression had changed and that I seemed “to be in a better mood”. It was my family and friends who noticed the difference without a word out of my mouth as to how I was feeling that convinced me things had changed. The treatment had helped.” – Curtis M

Treatment of Depression with MeRT Testimonial

Contact Our New Patient
Coordinator for more Information

It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel uncertain about treatment options and what is best. Both rTMS and MeRT are treatment protocols that have helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.

Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether this is the right treatment for you or your child. Our clinicians and technicians are passionate about helping you heal.

The New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT or rTMS can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist with scheduling your appointment with the clinic if you decide to move forward with treatment.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(949) 418-1108

Or fill out the Contact Form below and we will contact you. 

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Absolute Contraindications

Absolute contraindications for cortical MeRT treatment: Pacemaker, Defibrillator, Vagal Nerve Stimulator, VP Shunt/ Magnetic intracranial shunts, Deep Brain Stimulator, Epidural Cortical stimulator, Steel shunts/stents, Cranial metal fragments (i.e. shrapnel, excluding titanium), Cochlear implant, Aneurysm clips, coils, pipelines flow diversion, Pregnant or breastfeeding, Primary brain cancer / metastatic lesions in brain (unless palliative care), Magnetic dental implants, Implanted cardio-verter defibrillators (ICD), Ocular implants.

Relative Contraindications

Relative contraindications require closer protocol attention and may or may not disqualify someone from receiving cortical MeRT treatment, depending on the doctor’s discretion and the person’s individual condition. These include: History of Seizure or seizure disorder, Titanium shunts/stents, Spinal Cord Stimulator, Hearing aids, Ferrous cortical implants, Magnetic ink tattoo, Bipolar Disorder Type I/II, Baha Implant.