01 · View
A 3D model of your own brain.
It starts with an MRI. The Nexstim system turns it into a detailed 3D model of your brain, which we study to find where your treatment should go. You can see the target yourself.
All treatments
Neuro-navigated TMSNexstim SmartFocus®
Treatment aimed at your brain, not an average one.
Most TMS finds its spot from general landmarks on the outside of the head. We start from an MRI of your own brain, turn it into a 3D model, and steer every pulse to the point we planned on it, session after session.
02 · Measure
A dose measured on you.
We find your motor threshold: the gentlest pulse over the movement area of your brain that makes your hand twitch. Your treatment dose is set from it, so it suits your brain rather than a standard setting.
03 · Target
Pinpointed, not estimated.
The area that needs treatment is marked on your own anatomy. During each session an infrared camera follows a small reflector you wear, and the coil is steered to that point in real time, even if you move your head.
04 · Treat
Pulses tuned to your brain.
The coil rests against your head. Its brief magnetic pulses pass through the scalp and skull and induce a small electric field in the cortex beneath it, which activates the neurons there. The protocol is matched to your own brain-wave frequencies. You’ll hear clicks and may feel a light tapping.
05 · Repeat
The same point, every time.
Your target, the coil’s position and your dose are saved. Each session returns to exactly the same place, so you receive the prescribed dose at the same location every time.
Why navigation matters
Non-navigated TMS
Finds its spot from general landmarks on the head.
The coil is placed by measuring from points on the scalp, so it lands on a general area of the brain, and it’s placed by eye again each session.
Navigated TMS at BrainStim
Steered to a point on your own brain.
Your MRI shows the exact region to treat, the system tracks the coil and your head in real time, and every session is recorded, so the dose lands where it was prescribed.
- A carefully measured, individual dose
- The accuracy neurosurgeons expect
- The same location, every session
- Comfortable, awake, no anesthesia
A session, start to finish
- Each session
- 15–37minutes
- Usually
- 5a week
- For about
- 6weeks, or as prescribed
After a one-time setup, when your brain and cortex are measured, every visit is short. You sit in a reclining chair with a comfortable headrest; any loose hairstyle and comfortable clothing are fine.
You wear a small reflector-coated tracker on your face, so the system can follow your head if you move. We give you earplugs for the clicking. TMS is generally well tolerated: you may feel tapping or tingling on your scalp, and scalp discomfort or a headache can occur, mostly in the first sessions. Afterward we remove the tracker and you go on with your day.
See it explained
Questions people ask
What is neuro-navigated TMS?
Neuro-navigated TMS uses your own brain imaging to guide and personalize treatment. Instead of relying on general landmarks, it lets the clinician see and track the exact region being stimulated in real time, so the pulses reach the intended target every session.
Is TMS the same as electro-convulsive therapy (ECT)?
No. ECT passes an electric current into the brain and needs anesthesia, and it can cause side effects such as memory loss. In TMS no current passes through the scalp: a magnetic field passes through it and induces a small electric field in the brain tissue. There’s no anesthesia, and you can go on with your day straight after.
How does it work in practice?
First we take an MRI of your head. Combined with measurements from the TMS system, it gives a detailed image of your brain, so we can find the exact spot to treat, and you can see it on the 3D model. We also measure your motor threshold to set the right dose. Then, in each session, a trained operator rests the coil against your head and stimulates that spot.
Is it right for me?
If antidepressants haven’t helped enough, TMS may be an option. It’s drug-free, so it doesn’t carry the side effects of medication, though it has its own, usually mild ones. Talk to us and we’ll tell you honestly whether it fits.
Are there side effects or risks?
TMS is generally well tolerated. Scalp discomfort and headache can occur, usually in the first sessions. Seizures are rare. Before you start, your clinician will go over the other risks with you and check whether treatment is suitable for you.
How long is treatment?
Typically 5 sessions a week for 6 weeks, or as your provider prescribes. After the one-time setup, each session takes 15 to 37 minutes, depending on your program.
Who performs it?
A professionally trained TMS specialist, certified by the equipment manufacturer, with Dr. Liker overseeing your plan.
What do I need to do during a session?
Just relax in the chair. You’ll wear a reflector-coated tracker on your face so the system can account for any movement, and earplugs for the clicking sounds.