TMS for Treatment-Resistant Depression in Houston, TX
If you have tried multiple antidepressants and still struggle with depression, you are not alone, and you are not out of options. Treatment-resistant depression is more common than many people realize. At Houston West TMS, board-certified psychiatrist and Brainsway Deep TMS specialist Dr. William K. Drell offers noninvasive, FDA-cleared Deep TMS for patients who have not found relief through conventional treatments.
Request a TMS AppointmentWhat is treatment-resistant depression?
Depression is considered treatment-resistant when symptoms persist despite appropriate trials of medication, often combined with talk therapy. Signs that your depression may be treatment-resistant include:
- Continued low mood, hopelessness, or emptiness after multiple medication trials
- Ongoing loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Persistent fatigue, sleep problems, or difficulty concentrating
- Side effects from medications that outweigh their benefits
- A sense that nothing has truly helped
Why does depression become treatment resistant?
There is no single reason. Differences in brain chemistry, genetics, co-occurring conditions, and how individuals metabolize medication can all play a role. The important takeaway is that not responding to medication does not mean you cannot be helped; it simply means a different approach may be needed.
How does Deep TMS help treatment-resistant depression?
Deep TMS uses brief magnetic pulses to directly stimulate the brain regions associated with mood regulation, bypassing the systemic effects of oral medication. Research shows that more than 75% of patients with depression experience improvement and more than 50% enter remission after a full course of treatment. Because it is noninvasive and does not require sedation, you can drive yourself to and from appointments and continue your daily routine. Dr. Drell creates a personalized plan and coordinates care with your current psychiatrist.
To understand the technology behind your care, explore our Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Brainsway Deep TMS, and TMS for Depression pages. You can also take our depression self-assessment to see whether you may be a candidate. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
If depression has not responded to medication, there is still hope. Call Houston West TMS at (713) 464-4455 or request a consultation online to learn whether Deep TMS is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is treatment-resistant depression?
Treatment-resistant depression is major depression that has not improved after trying two or more antidepressant medications at adequate doses and durations, often combined with talk therapy.
Can TMS help if antidepressants have not worked?
Yes. Deep TMS is specifically helpful for treatment-resistant depression. It works directly on the brain regions involved in mood rather than through medication, and many patients improve even after multiple failed medication trials.
How effective is Deep TMS for treatment-resistant depression?
Research shows that more than 75% of patients with depression experience improvement and more than 50% enter remission after a full course of Deep TMS, even when prior treatments did not work.
Why does depression become treatment resistant?
There is no single cause. Differences in brain chemistry, genetics, co-occurring conditions, and how someone metabolizes medication can all contribute. A different treatment approach, like Deep TMS, may succeed where medication did not.
Do I have to stop my current medications to try Deep TMS?
No. You can continue your current medications during Deep TMS. Dr. Drell coordinates with your existing psychiatrist and adjusts treatment to account for medication effects.
How do I find out if I am a candidate for Deep TMS?
You can find out by scheduling a consultation. Call (713) 464-4455 or request an appointment online, and Dr. Drell will review your treatment history to determine whether Deep TMS is appropriate.