Am I a Candidate for NeuroStar TMS Therapy in Scottsdale?
Feeling stuck in the same depressive cycle despite trying multiple medications can be deeply discouraging. NeuroStar TMS therapy offers a scientifically validated, non-invasive path forward that targets mood-related brain pathways when traditional antidepressants have not worked. But not every patient is the same — that is why at The Schulte Institute in Scottsdale, AZ, our experienced team provides individualized candidacy evaluations to determine whether this advanced approach is right for you.
Request an AppointmentWho Is a Good Candidate for NeuroStar TMS?
Ideal candidates for NeuroStar TMS therapy at The Schulte Institute are adults in Scottsdale who are diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and have not found adequate relief from medication or psychotherapy. NeuroStar uses focused magnetic pulses to activate areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, helping restore balanced neural activity without the systemic side effects that often accompany antidepressant use — such as weight gain, drowsiness, or sexual dysfunction.
If you are 18 years of age or older and have tried at least two antidepressant medications without meaningful improvement — or have experienced side effects that make continued medication use difficult — you may prefer this non-invasive, outpatient therapy. NeuroStar is also FDA-approved as an adjunct treatment for adolescents ages 15 to 21 with MDD. Every patient’s path is unique, which is why our team at The Schulte Institute conducts a detailed consultation before making any TMS recommendation. To learn more about what conditions TMS can address, visit our Conditions Treated page.
Medical and Safety Considerations for TMS Candidacy
Patient safety is a top priority at The Schulte Institute during the candidacy assessment process. Before beginning NeuroStar Advanced Therapy, your provider will conduct a thorough review of your medical history to ensure TMS is safe and appropriate for you. This review includes evaluating any neurological conditions, history of seizures, or implanted metal devices near the head. Most patients tolerate TMS very well; however, certain implants — such as pacemakers, cochlear implants, or other non-removable conductive metal devices in or near the head — may make the procedure unsafe.
Your consultation will also cover practical considerations such as your schedule and treatment expectations. A typical NeuroStar plan involves five sessions per week for seven weeks, with each session lasting between 20 and 45 minutes depending on the prescription dose determined during your initial mapping appointment. You can return to normal daily activities immediately after each session — including driving — making this a convenient option for busy individuals in the Scottsdale area. To understand the full treatment process from start to finish, visit our How It Works page.
Why Choose NeuroStar TMS Over Other Treatment Options?
Unlike antidepressant medications — which affect the entire body through the bloodstream — NeuroStar TMS precisely targets the specific brain circuits involved in mood regulation without any systemic exposure. This means no weight gain, no sexual dysfunction, no GI distress, and no sedation. In the largest real-world outcomes data for TMS, 83% of patients experienced significant symptom improvement and 62% achieved full remission (Sackeim et al., 2020). These outcomes represent a meaningful advance over what repeated antidepressant trials can offer for treatment-resistant patients.
At The Schulte Institute in Scottsdale, every NeuroStar TMS plan begins with a clear, evidence-based candidacy evaluation. Dr. Henry J. Schulte, MD, DFAPA, and Dr. Danielle M. Koreny, DNP, PMHNP-BC, take the time to discuss your previous treatments, current symptoms, and recovery goals. This ensures your TMS therapy plan is tailored to both your clinical needs and lifestyle. For patients who may benefit from additional or alternative advanced treatments, we also offer Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray and off-label TMS for conditions such as anxiety and bipolar depression. Call (480) 941-9004 to schedule your consultation today.
Frequently Asked Questions: Am I a Candidate for TMS Therapy in Scottsdale?
What diagnoses qualify someone for NeuroStar TMS Therapy at The Schulte Institute?
NeuroStar TMS is FDA-cleared for adults with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who have not found adequate relief from antidepressant medications, adults with depression and comorbid anxiety symptoms, and adults with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is also FDA-approved as an adjunct treatment for adolescents ages 15–21 with MDD. During your consultation at The Schulte Institute, our providers will evaluate your diagnosis and treatment history to confirm whether you meet candidacy criteria.
How many failed antidepressants do I need before qualifying for TMS?
Most insurance plans covering NeuroStar TMS require that a patient has tried at least two antidepressant medications at adequate doses and durations without achieving meaningful improvement. Some plans may also require a prior trial of psychotherapy. However, from a clinical standpoint, if you have failed even one antidepressant and are experiencing significant side effects, our providers may still evaluate you for TMS candidacy and discuss the best path forward. Visit our Insurance Coverage page for more details on coverage requirements.
Can adolescents receive NeuroStar TMS Therapy at The Schulte Institute?
Yes. The FDA has approved NeuroStar Advanced Therapy as a first-line adjunct treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in adolescents ages 15 to 21. Nearly 10,000 adolescents have been treated with NeuroStar, with over 300,000 sessions completed. At The Schulte Institute, our team evaluates each adolescent patient individually to confirm that TMS is appropriate and safe. Please note that insurance coverage for adolescent TMS is still being updated — prior authorization is required.
Are there medical conditions that disqualify someone from NeuroStar TMS?
Yes. Certain medical conditions or implanted devices may make NeuroStar TMS unsafe. These include non-removable conductive metal in or near the head, pacemakers, cochlear implants, and a history of seizures or epilepsy. A history of neurological conditions will also be evaluated carefully during your candidacy assessment. Your provider at The Schulte Institute will review your full medical history before any TMS treatment is recommended or initiated.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to do TMS?
No. NeuroStar TMS is non-systemic and does not interact with medications through the bloodstream, so most patients continue their current medications during TMS treatment. In fact, many patients use TMS in combination with antidepressants or other psychiatric medications. Your provider at The Schulte Institute will review all of your current medications during your consultation to ensure there are no concerns before treatment begins.
How do I find out if I am a candidate for TMS at The Schulte Institute in Scottsdale?
The best way to determine whether you are a candidate for NeuroStar TMS is to schedule a consultation at The Schulte Institute. During your appointment, Dr. Schulte or Dr. Koreny will review your diagnosis, treatment history, medical background, and goals to make a personalized recommendation. Call (480) 941-9004 or use our online appointment request to get started.
Is TMS the only advanced treatment option at The Schulte Institute?
No. In addition to NeuroStar TMS therapy, The Schulte Institute also offers Spravato (esketamine) nasal spray for treatment-resistant depression, as well as off-label TMS for conditions including anxiety, bipolar depression, and cognitive impairment. Our providers take a comprehensive, personalized approach to finding the right combination of treatments for each patient’s unique needs.
