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TMS Therapy in Cape Town
A Psychiatrist-led, non invasive treatment option for people exploring what to do when depression has not improved sufficiently with treatment
When to Explore TMS
If you are exploring options for depression that has not improved sufficiently with treatment, a psychiatric assessment can help you understand whether TMS may be an appropriate next step. This follows a referral from your GP, psychologist, or another doctor.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood. Dr BN Charles, a psychiatrist based in Claremont, Cape Town, offers psychiatrist-led TMS assessment and treatment at Mediclinic Crescent Mental Health Services.
Learn more about TMS in the video below
What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ?
TMS is a non-invasive, evidence-based therapy that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain involved in mood control and depression
Unlike medication that travels through the bloodstream, TMS acts directly on a targeted area of the brain. It does not require anaesthesia, and patients remain awake and alert throughout a session.
The strongest clinical evidence for TMS is in the treatment of depression. As with any treatment, individual assessment is required. Outcomes vary and are not guaranteed.
How a TMS course works
The protocol and course length depend on your diagnosis and your assessment. For depression, two protocols are currently offered:
Intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) : the usual starting protocol.
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30 sessions in total
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3 sessions a day, every working day, over 10 working days
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Each session takes about 3 minutes, with a 15-minute break in between
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Under an hour of your time per visit
Standard repetitive TMS (rTMS) : alternative protocol
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30 sessions in total
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1 session a day, five days a week, until the course is complete — typically around six weeks
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Each session takes under 20 minutes
Sessions are delivered by a suitably trained TMS technician. Currently this is provided personally by Dr Charles, so a course is scheduled around his available time in the clinic calendar.
The Assessment
TMS is not offered as a "one-size-fits-all" treatment. Whether TMS is appropriate for you is determined either by Dr Charles in a psychiatric assessment, or after discussion with your treating doctor. An assessment considers your diagnosis, treatment history, current medication, and any factors that may affect suitability.
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Where you have been referred specifically for TMS, a free 15-minute discovery session is offered once indications and any contraindications have been discussed.
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Unlike a clinical assessment, the discovery session is a chance to see the machine, hear and feel what a session is like, ask questions, and have the costs and possible side effects explained before you decide anything.
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An assessment does not guarantee that TMS will be recommended or that treatment will be funded. A referral does not commit you to treatment.
Our Process
Each course of TMS is specifically tailored to your clinical needs. The schedule you are offered will depend on clinical considerations, the course format agreed with Dr Charles, and available appointment blocks.
Venue: Dr Charles's rooms at Mediclinic Crescent Mental Health Services, 269 Main Road, Claremont, Cape Town. In-person treatment takes place at this venue.
Availability: courses are scheduled around available time in the clinic calendar. Because a course runs across consecutive working days, availability depends on finding a block large enough to complete it . Please enquire about current availability.
Fees and Medical Aid
TMS is provided on a fee-for-service basis. Payment options include pay-per-session and a discounted prepaid course. A number of medical schemes are now considering payment for TMS with motivation, generally where treatment-resistant depression is involved. Where applicable, motivation applicaitons will be made on your behalf. Cover, authorisation and your personal liability are scheme- and patient-specific, and approval is never guaranteed.
Discussing TMS with your treatment provider
To see Dr Charles for TMS a referral is required first, from your GP, psychologist or another doctor. Once a referral is received, Dr Charles reviews it and, where appropriate, offers an appointment. If you don't currently have a referral, please ask your GP or another doctor to refer you.
Is TMS therapy right for you?
TMS is generally well tolerated. The most common effects are mild, transient scalp discomfort or a light headache during early sessions. These typically settle as treatment continues.
TMS is not suitable for everyone. A clinical review is required for people with a history of seizures or epilepsy. TMS is contraindicated for people with non-removable metallic objects near the head, such as cochlear implants or certain stents or clips.
Full suitability is determined during your assessment, and any precautions relevant to you will be discussed before treatment begins.
Frequently asked questions
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If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, go to your nearest hospital emergency centre for assistance. This website is not an emergency service and is not monitored as one.
About Dr BN Charles
Dr BN Charles is a psychiatrist based in Cape Town, offering specialised TMS therapy at Mediclinic Crescent Mental Health Services in Claremont. His practice is dedicated to providing advanced, evidence-based neurobiological treatments that support functional recovery for patients managing treatment-resistant depression
Specialized Training
Dr. BN Charles has completed a Clinical Certification Course in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ( TMS ) through the Academy of Brain Stimulation, an internationally recognised organisation dedicated to advancing neuromodulation therapies
This certification ensures that TMS treatments are delivered according to international clinical standards and best practice guidelines
