What to Expect at Your First TMS Session

Houston West TMS · Updated October 2026

From safety screening and mapping to the sensations, timing, and practical details of a visit.

Before treatment starts

Your evaluation and safety screening come before the first treatment. The team reviews medical history, medications, implants, and the proposed schedule. Ask about any pain reliever beforehand rather than routinely taking a dose without checking.

Mapping and motor threshold

The initial visit includes measuring your motor threshold, the stimulation level that produces a small thumb movement. This helps set treatment intensity. The coil is positioned over the treatment target, and settings are individualized. Allow approximately 60 minutes for this first visit.

What treatment feels like

You sit awake while the helmet-shaped coil delivers magnetic pulses. You hear clicking and may feel tapping on your scalp. Ear protection is provided. Scalp discomfort or headache can occur; tell the technician so adjustments can be considered. Seizure is a rare but serious risk.

Timing and everyday activities

Standard stimulation takes about 20 minutes, with routine visits usually around 30 minutes. Most patients can drive themselves and return to usual activities because no sedation is used. Weekday visits over several weeks are typical; shorter or accelerated protocols have different schedules.

• Bring any requested forms and an up-to-date medication list
• Ask about hair products or recently applied dye
• Bring a comb or brush if helpful
• Tell the team about medication changes or new symptoms

Progress is followed over time

Dr. Drell meets with patients periodically to answer questions and coordinate care. Do not expect a single session to establish whether treatment will work. The team follows symptoms and reviews your response throughout the course.