TMS Therapy for OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves hyper-connectivity within the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) loop, creating intrusive obsessions and compulsive urges that are extremely difficult to resist. The FDA cleared deep TMS using the BrainsWay H-coil specifically for OCD in 2018 — making it the only FDA-cleared device-based treatment for this condition. TMS provides meaningful relief for patients who have not benefited sufficiently from SSRIs or ERP therapy.
Signs TMS May Help Your OCD
Many patients who come to us for TMS have tried medications or therapy with limited results. If you recognize these patterns, a TMS evaluation may be worth exploring.
- Persistent, intrusive obsessive thoughts that cause significant distress
- Repetitive compulsive behaviors (checking, washing, counting, arranging)
- Rituals that take more than 1 hour per day
- Compulsions that temporarily relieve anxiety but reinforce the cycle
- Significant functional impairment at work, school, or in relationships
- Inadequate relief from SSRIs or ERP therapy alone
Only a qualified provider can determine whether TMS is appropriate for you. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
What to Expect
Your TMS Treatment Plan for OCD
The FDA-cleared protocol for OCD uses deep TMS with the H7 coil targeting the anterior cingulate cortex and medial prefrontal cortex. Treatment sessions involve a brief 90-second symptom provocation (exposure) prior to each stimulation session, combining elements of ERP with TMS to maximize effectiveness. Sessions are 20 minutes, 5 days per week for 6 weeks.
What Happens Step by Step
From your first call to your final session, here is what to expect when starting TMS for OCD at Segal Telepsychiatry Network.
Initial Evaluation
A board-certified provider conducts a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to confirm you are a good candidate for TMS and determine the right protocol for your condition.
qEEG Brain Mapping
We use quantitative EEG to map your brain activity and identify the precise neural circuits to target, personalizing your stimulation parameters for better outcomes.
Insurance Verification
Our team verifies your TMS benefits before your first session — at no charge — so you know exactly what to expect financially.
Treatment Course
Daily 20–40 minute sessions, Monday through Friday, for 4–6 weeks. You remain fully awake and alert, and can drive yourself home immediately after each session.
Progress Monitoring
Your provider tracks your response throughout the course and adjusts the protocol if needed to optimize your results.
qEEG-Guided Protocols
Personalized brain mapping for precision targeting
20–40 Min Sessions
Return to your day immediately after
Insurance Verified First
We check your TMS benefits at no charge
Ready to Explore TMS for OCD?
Our team will evaluate whether TMS is right for you, verify your insurance benefits, and answer every question — at no charge.
- FDA-approved treatment
- No medication required
- Free insurance verification
- In-person at Mill Valley, CA
- Most major insurance accepted