Neuromodulation and Psychiatry

The International Neuromodulation Society defines neuromodulation as a field of science, medicine, and bioengineering that encompasses implantable and non-implantable technologies, electrical or chemical, for the purpose of improving quality of life and functioning of humans. It involves processes such as inhibition, stimulation, modification, regulation, or therapeutic alteration of activity of neurons in central, peripheral, or autonomic systems, chemically or electrically. Neuromodulation is basically non-destructive, adjustable, and reversible. It can be explained in simpler words as “Guiding the functional brain cells in a desired direction from their existing state of functionality.”

Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS) is a term for the list of techniques and treatment methods to modulate brain activity using physical energy forms like electric current, magnetic, sound, and light – and without using invasive procedures and implanting any device inside the body. Among all the NIBS techniques, Transcranial Magnetic stimulation (TMS) is among the most widely used in psychiatry. In contrast to the invasive methods like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), NIBS methods are relatively safer with very few to nil side effects and can be applied with ease in the clinical practice of psychiatry. They also significantly enhance the treatment outcomes when used in conjunction with standard pharmacotherapy.

Hence there is growing popularity and compliance of TMS therapy among non-compliant or treatment resistant patients.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a form of non-invasive neuromodulation or non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) in which a magnetic field is applied to affected regions of the brain. This field induces tiny electric currents in the brain cells of these areas. This stimulates the neural network by modulating the neural activity – resulting in alleviation of the symptoms of the disease. The fundamental effect of the RTMS is on the neurons or the nerve cells in the brain, which undergo re-programming in terms of their functionality under the effect of the magnetic fields. TMS is also referred to as RTMS or Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as the magnetic pulses are sent repeatedly into the cranium.


Deep TMS or dTMS is a revolutionary TMS technology, approved by the US-FDA,

that utilizes the magnetic fields to stimulate superficial areas as well as deeper and broader regions of the brain. Such deeper and broader stimulation ensures extensive activation of the brain cells and as a result the individual gets relief for the long term.

ANC uses the advanced, US FDA approved, BrainsWay Deep TMS systems across all its Centers of Excellence. dTMS is a revolutionary technology for the treatment of mental health and addiction conditions, namely Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Smoking Dependence.

What happens in a Deep TMS session?

No prior preparation of the patient is required before a Deep TMS session. Our doctor will screen the patient and decide the protocol to be administered. The psychologist or counsellor will place a helmet comfortably onto your head and you will be seated comfortably on a sofa. Before starting treatment, your motor threshold will be measured to determine the intensity of magnetic pulse to be applied during treatment. During the treatment, you will feel a light tapping on the head due to the magnetic stimulation. Each session lasts for about 20 minutes and during this time you can be talking to the counsellor. You can resume normal routine after each session. You can also take more than one session per day after discussing with the doctor. If you’re dealing with Anxiety Depression, OCD, smoking dependence and other neuro-psychiatric disorders and looking for an advanced treatment, consider Asha Neuromodulation Clinics’ Deep RTMS treatment in Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

Difference between RTMS and Deep TMS

Criteria Traditional RTMS Deep TMS (DTMS)
Depth of penetration of magnetic field inside the brain Upto 2.5 cm inside the brain Upto 4.5 cm inside the brain
Brain structures treated Superficial areas of brain Superficial areas as well as deeper and broader regions of brain
Neuron or brain cell activation Limited activation Extensive activation
Application area of coil The coil is applied on one side of the head The coil inside the helmet surrounds the head, covering a larger area

Deep TMS is much more effective than traditional RTMS as it stimulates the deeper and broader regions of the brain and extensive activation of the neurons – resulting in better alleviation of disease symptoms and recovery for the long-term.

Whether it’s depression, anxiety, OCD or neuro-psychiatric conditions that you or your loved ones are suffering from, our Deep RTMS treatment in Hyderabad and in other cities can give you the long-term relief that you have been looking for.

Benefits & Advantages of Deep TMS

Very safe and highly effective treatment: The equipment and treatment are approved by US FDA and CE.

Convenient and comfortable for patient: Treatment is done in Out Patient Department and patient can be comfortably seated on a sofa during therapy. Patient can take more than one session in a day and can resume normal routine after each session.

Treatment for Resistant Conditions: Neuromodulation is often considered when other treatments have been ineffective, making it a valuable option for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions.

Treatment for Non-complaint patients: It is also suitable for people unwilling to taking medications.

Long-Term Relief: Deep TMS provide long-lasting relief for certain psychiatric conditions.

Customizable treatment: The therapies can be tailored to individual patients. Treatment parameters can be adjusted to meet each patient’s specific needs, optimizing effectiveness.

Minimal to Nil Side Effects: Compared to some medications, neuromodulation therapies often have fewer systemic side effects such as transient headaches.

Non-Invasiveness: Neuromodulation techniques are generally non-invasive, meaning they do not require surgery or the implantation of devices. This reduces the risks associated with invasive procedures and allows for quicker recovery times.

Asha Neuromodulation Clinics are India’s First Multi-Centered Deep TMS Clinics. Our services include OP Consultation, Deep TMS, RTMS, TDCS/HD-TDCS, Biofeedback and Counselling Services. Our specialties are in treating Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Smoking Dependence and other Neuro-Psychiatric Disorders.