+3110 206 7500 info@rtms-international.com

About rTMS International

rTMS International was founded based on our many years of experience with the positive results of rTMS and our ambition to make rTMS accessible to as many people as possible.

A depression or compulsive disorder is a chemical imbalance in the brain. This results in certain areas no longer working well together (anymore). We use rTMS to influence the way in which these brain regions work together, providing positive results.

More than 70% of clients with depression and 60% of those with an obsessive compulsive disorder benefit from rTMS. Complaints decrease on average by 75% in the case of depression and by 60% in the case of a compulsive disorder. Treatment with rTMS has hardly any side effects. Some clients experience a mild tension headache after a treatment which will go away by itself.

Treatments

Frequently asked questions

What is an Electroencephalogram (EEG)?
An EEG is a method in which electrodes are placed on the head by means of a swimming cap to map your brain activity. Any deviations are noted by the EEC. The EEG is therefore used to determine if you have brain activity that could be dangerous to stimulate with magnetic brain stimulation. This is only the case with any epileptic activity. If the EEG shows that this is the case, a neurologist must first be consulted before treatment can be started.

To make a good EEG. use is made of conductive gel. After the EEG as much gel as possible is removed but a remainder will remain visible. Washing your hair at home once ensures that all the gel is gone.
I use medication, can I start with rTMS?
When your medication is used for your depression and / or compulsive disorder, treatment with rTMS can be applied and medication may be phased out. This will be examined in more detail based on your personal situation and treatment plan. This is done in consultation, if desired, with your prescribing doctor.
Is there a waiting list?
You can always go to rTMS International for an introductory meeting within one week. Treatment can be started as soon as the EEG has been performed and there is no evidence of this.
Is rTMS safe?
rTMS is a safe and scientifically based treatment for depression and coercion. The treatment is applied briefly and intensively and supplemented with cognitive behavioral therapy for the best result. Magnetic pulses are delivered to the brain for twenty minutes and you are talking to one of our practitioners. The pulses cause certain parts of the brain to be stimulated or muted. This will improve communication between different brain areas and reduce the associated depressive symptoms. RTMS will never cause damage to your brain. The FDA in the US has rated rTMS as a safe therapy.
Does rTMS treatment hurt?
Treatment with rTMS does not hurt and has few or no side effects. You sit in an easy chair and the coil that delivers the magnetic pulses is placed above your head. The magnetic pulses stimulate certain areas of the brain and decrease your depression and / or compulsive symptoms. Treatment with rTMS can cause mild tension headache after the end of treatment. This will ring again.
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Our Practitioners

Our rTMS specialists are happy to introduce themselves to you.

Bram Wernsen

Bram Wernsen, MSc

Bram is the founder of rTMS International. He graduated from the University of Utrecht (2009) with a degree in developmental psychology and worked in various clinics where he also began his training as a rTMS specialist. In 2014, he started his own practice, specializing in rTMS treatments for depression and compulsive disorders in Rotterdam. This practice has now become rTMS International. Bram’s objective is to help as many people as possible through rTMS. Bram has a wife and son and lives in Voorschoten.

Petra van Assen

Petra van Assen, MSc

Petra graduated in clinical psychology (2007) from the University of Utrecht. After her studies, she gained experience in various workplaces, including youth care and health and safety services. She has been with rTMS International since 2018 and gives rTMS treatments in Haarlem. In addition, she has her own psychology practice for individual treatment, guidance and coaching. Petra lives with her husband and two children in Hillegom.

Annemiek Breshamer

Annemiek Breshamer, MSc

Annemiek graduated in 2015 in clinical neuropsychology from the University of Groningen, where her interest and awe for the functioning of the brain was strengthened. She has gained experience in the treatment of, among other things, depression and compulsive disorders within regular mental health care. She feels privileged to be able to help people through rTMS. In addition, she ensures a safe and professional treatment environment with a personal approach. Annemiek works at the location in de Bilt.

Locations

RTMS International has practises at three locations in the Netherlands.

All our locations are easily accessible by public transport. Parking space is available in front of the door at the Utrecht/De Bilt and the Rotterdam locations. For the Haarlem location, we suggest parking at the parking garage station. From there, it is a four minute walk to our office.