A New Path Forward in Addiction Recovery
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September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the progress of people in recovery, highlight the power of evidence-based treatment, and shine a light on new approaches that support long-term healing. One of the most exciting innovations in this space is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to target areas of the brain linked to addiction, cravings, and mood regulation.
Unlike traditional treatments alone, TMS can directly influence brain circuits that drive substance use, helping patients reduce cravings, improve self-control, and strengthen their recovery journey.
What Is TMS Therapy?
TMS Therapy is an outpatient, FDA-approved procedure that delivers gentle magnetic pulses to specific brain regions. These pulses activate neural pathways involved in motivation, decision-making, and mood, areas often disrupted by addiction.
Because TMS also treats depression and other mental health conditions, it is particularly valuable for dual diagnoses, where addiction and co-occurring disorders are addressed together.
What the Research Says About TMS for Addiction
Scientific research continues to confirm the promise of TMS in addiction recovery. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials examined the effects of TMS on patients with alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drug dependence. The findings were compelling – stimulating the prefrontal cortex (a brain area tied to decision-making and impulse control) significantly lowered cravings.
TMS directly targets the brain circuits that drive addictive behavior, reducing both cravings and consumption, especially when delivered at higher doses over time.
3 Key Benefits of TMS in Addiction Treatment
1. A Non-Invasive, Outpatient Option TMS is simple, well-tolerated, and requires no downtime. Patients can drive themselves home after each session and return to their normal activities right away.
2. Effective for Hard-to-Treat Cases For people who have struggled with relapse or who haven’t found success through medication and therapy alone, TMS offers a new avenue of hope. It directly addresses the brain mechanisms that reinforce addictive behavior.
3. Few to No Side Effects Most patients tolerate TMS very well. Temporary side effects, such as mild scalp discomfort, are uncommon and typically only occur during the treatment session. Unlike medications, there are no systemic or long-term negative side effects.
Common Questions About TMS
Is TMS only for addiction?
No. TMS is widely used in mental health treatment, especially for major depression. Research also supports its efficacy for anxiety disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD), and other mood disorders.
Is TMS safe for everyone?
TMS is safe in most cases, but it is not recommended for people with metal implants in or near the head (such as aneurysm clips, electrodes, or stents).
TMS and the Future of Recovery
Recovery Month reminds us that healing is possible, and innovative treatments like TMS are expanding the ways people can achieve it. By combining neuroscience with compassionate care, NeuroStim TMS Therapy empowers patients to reclaim control, strengthen resilience, and build lasting recovery.
Find relief at any of our 16 clinics located in Washington, Arizona, and Minnesota.
Learn more about how NeuroStim TMS can support your recovery. Reach out today to schedule your Free TMS Therapy Phone Consultation.