Deep TMS for PTSD Treatment

in Newport Beach & San Juan Capistrano, CA

Find peace and healing with Deep TMS therapy, medication management, and integrative care at Resiliency Mind+Body Medicine®.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can lead to severe anxiety, flashbacks, nightmares, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. PTSD can affect anyone who has gone through trauma, and its symptoms can significantly impact daily life.

Intrusive Memories— Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares

Avoidance— Avoiding places, activities, or people that remind you of the traumatic event

Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood— Persistent negative beliefs, guilt, feeling detached from others, or difficulty experiencing positive emotions

Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions— Being easily startled, always on guard, trouble sleeping, irritability

Can Deep TMS Help With PTSD?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation treatment that uses magnetic pulses to influence brain circuits involved in mood regulation, fear processing, and emotional control. While Deep TMS is FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder, clinical evidence supports its use in carefully selected patients with PTSD, particularly when symptoms persist despite psychotherapy and medication trials.

At Resiliency, Deep TMS for PTSD is offered under close psychiatric supervision and integrated into a personalized care plan to support safety and effectiveness.

How Deep TMS Works for PTSD

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (Deep TMS) targets specific brain areas involved in mood regulation and stress response. By delivering magnetic pulses to these regions, Deep TMS can help modulate brain activity, reducing symptoms of PTSD and improving overall mental health.

Reduction in PTSD Symptoms

Many patients experience a significant decrease in symptoms such as flashbacks, anxiety, and hyperarousal.

Non-Invasive and Drug-Free

Deep TMS does not require medication, avoiding potential side effects of pharmaceuticals.

Improved Quality of Life

Deep TMS can help restore normal functioning, allowing patients to engage in everyday activities without the constant burden of PTSD symptoms.

The Deep TMS Treatment Process

01

Comprehensive Evaluation

Our team assesses your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals to determine if Deep TMS is the right choice for you. This personalized consultation ensures a tailored approach.

02

Personalized Deep TMS Sessions

Deep TMS sessions typically last about 10 minutes and are conducted five days a week for several weeks. You sit comfortably while magnetic pulses are delivered—no anesthesia needed, resume activities immediately.

03

Continuous Support

Our team provides continuous support, closely monitoring your progress and making adjustments to ensure optimal results. Our goal is lasting relief from PTSD symptoms and regaining your sense of peace.

Why Choose Resiliency

Board-Certified Expertise

Led by Dr. LaFrenierre, double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine, with a multidisciplinary team.

Integrated Treatment

Medication, Deep TMS, Spravato, IV therapy, and lifestyle medicine all under one roof.

In-Person & Telehealth

Flexible appointment options at our Newport Beach and San Juan Capistrano offices or via secure video.

Insurance Accepted

In-network with most major insurances including Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, United, Medicare, TriCare.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Deep TMS for PTSD and how does it work?

Deep TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) for PTSD uses magnetic pulses to stimulate neural pathways involved in trauma, fear processing, and stress regulation. By activating under-functioning brain regions, Deep TMS helps reduce symptoms like intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and avoidance. It’s non-invasive and typically done without anesthesia.

How will I know if Deep TMS for PTSD is working, and is follow-up required?

Progress is monitored via symptom checklists, clinician evaluation, and sometimes patient-reported outcomes. Many patients notice improvements in sleep, reduction in nightmares or flashbacks, and less hypervigilance within 2-4 weeks. Follow-up treatments or maintenance sessions may be suggested if symptoms recur or remain at a lower level.

What are the possible side effects for Deep TMS when treating PTSD?

Common side effects include mild scalp discomfort or headache during the first few sessions, lightheadedness, or twitching near the site of stimulation. These generally lessen over time. Serious side effects are rare. Our team constantly monitors you and adjusts parameters for your comfort and safety.

How long is a course of Deep TMS for PTSD, and what does a typical session look like?

Treatment generally involves daily sessions, five days per week, over about 4-6 weeks. Each session lasts around 10 minutes depending on protocol. During the session you sit in a chair, an electromagnetic coil is placed on your scalp, and you may feel clicking and tapping sensations. After each session you can leave and resume normal activities.

Do you treat veterans with PTSD?

Yes. Dr. LaFrenierre holds a Harvard fellowship in Trauma and Recovery. We serve veterans and accept TriCare and TriWest insurance.

Can PTSD be treated alongside other conditions?

Absolutely. PTSD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, and substance use. Our integrative approach addresses all co-occurring conditions simultaneously.

Have more questions? Contact our clinical team.

Take the First Step Toward Healing

Schedule a consultation with our team and discover a personalized treatment plan designed for your unique needs.