TMS Therapy in Chicago
Transcranial magnetic stimulation for depression that hasn't improved with antidepressant medication, near Clark and Diversey.
Your first sample treatment is free
The best way to answer questions about TMS is to experience it.
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Suitability survey
A short online questionnaire speeds up evaluation.
- 2
Consultation and sample treatment
At no added cost, even if TMS isn't covered by your insurance. The gentle first session sets the machine to your brain's response.
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Your treatment plan
Standard or accelerated, covered by insurance or self-pay, with additional protocols at no extra cost when they fit.
Suitability survey
Answer here on this page. We review every survey before your consultation.
How will you pay?
Pick the option that fits you.
The same plans as office visits
- Standard course: 30–36 sessions, five times per week over 7–8 weeks
- Insurance generally covers major depression when both cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants or other mood medications have failed, or when side effects have proven too disruptive
Out of network, ad hoc contract, or self-pay
- We may be able to use your out-of-network benefits
- In certain situations we can ask your insurer for an ad hoc contract
- Self-pay can cost less than many high-deductible insurance plans
Standard course
- Five sessions per week
- Financing available through CareCredit
Accelerated, SAINT-inspired
- Five sessions per day
- MagStim TMS machine with scalp-based targeting instead of fMRI
- Not currently covered by insurance
Payment is due before treatment begins, or weekly for an additional fee. The national average for a full TMS course is $9,000 to $12,000.
What TMS can help
TMS for depression
The MagStim TMS systems Able uses are FDA-cleared for major depressive disorder in adults who have not improved enough on antidepressant medication in the current episode. European treatment guidelines rate this kind of TMS as definitely effective for depression.
Other conditions
European treatment guidelines (2020) rate TMS as definitely effective for neuropathic pain, and as probably effective for fibromyalgia pain and for motor symptoms and depression in Parkinson's disease.
One of Chicago's first TMS therapy providers
One of Chicago's first TMS providers
Able Psychiatry is one of Chicago's first Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) providers, offering TMS for depression that hasn't improved with antidepressant medication. Our Lincoln Park office, near the corner of Clark and Diversey, offers a warm atmosphere for personalized TMS treatment designed to your needs.
Personalized, compassionate care
With a focus on the latest research and a customizable approach, you’ll benefit from tailored treatment plans that may include additional protocols at no extra cost. We welcome you to visit the space and discuss any details.
Accelerated TMS and a SAINT-inspired protocol
Able's accelerated approach delivers five sessions per day over two weeks for treatment-resistant depression. Our version uses the MagStim TMS machine with scalp-based targeting instead of fMRI. The full program is self-pay only at $5,950 and is currently not covered by insurance.
Before you start
How much does TMS cost?
The national average for a full TMS course is $9,000 to $12,000. Our full treatment breakdown:
- $5,500 for the full treatment course, 36 sessions
- $5,950 for the SAINT-inspired accelerated protocol, 50 sessions
Payment is due before beginning treatment, or weekly for an additional fee. For those needing assistance, financing is available through CareCredit.
Our self-pay option can actually be less costly than many high-deductible insurance plans. Self-pay allows for leeway to use newer treatment protocols, which may allow us to accelerate treatment to half the time normally required.
Is TMS covered by insurance?
Yes, most insurance providers cover TMS when it follows the standard course (30–36 sessions performed 5 times per week over a 7–8 week course). Insurance covers major depression where both cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants and/or other mood stabilizing or stimulating medications have failed, or where the side effects have proven too disruptive to a patient’s lifestyle or system. European treatment guidelines also rate TMS as effective for a few conditions besides depression, listed above.
For TMS, Able Psychiatry is in network with the same plans as office visits: BCBS PPO, Blue Choice PPO, Cigna PPO and UnitedHealthcare PPO. With another plan, we may be able to use your out-of-network benefits, if available (a deductible for out-of-network benefits might not apply to the in-network deductible). In certain situations we may be able to ask your insurance company for an ad hoc contract. We also have competitive self-pay pricing.
What does TMS feel like?
TMS typically feels like a light tapping on the scalp, often compared to the rhythmic sensation of a woodpecker. This tapping comes from a magnetic coil positioned near the head to deliver precise stimulation. While some describe it as mildly uncomfortable, our treatments are carefully administered to be as comfortable as possible. The intensity is adjustable, and you're always in control.
How long does TMS treatment take?
At Able Psychiatry you have options for your treatment duration. For insurance coverage, the standard course is 30–36 sessions performed 5 times per week over a 7–8 week course. For self-pay, we can shorten TMS treatment with an accelerated protocol, which can cut the overall treatment duration by up to 50%.
Do I need sedation or time off?
No sedation, and you return to your day right after.
Who should NOT get TMS?
Patients with any type of non-removable metal in their heads (with the exception of braces or dental fillings) should not receive TMS. Failure to follow this rule could cause the object to heat up, move, or malfunction, and result in serious injury or death. Patients with specific types of mental conditions may experience a worsening of their symptoms.
See if TMS fits
Start with the suitability survey, or book a consultation to see the space and ask anything.