our approach
Scientifically supported
rTMS is a treatment method based on scientific research and has proven effective over the years for conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We stay up to date with the latest developments in rTMS and apply this knowledge to continuously improve our treatments. All treatments are carried out by healthcare professionals specialized in rTMS, ensuring that each treatment is delivered safely and effectively.
About your treatment at rTMS International
Personalized treatment plan
Everything revolves around your unique situation. After a careful introductory consultation, we work together to develop a treatment plan that is fully tailored to your symptoms, goals, and personal circumstances. We look at who you are, not just at a diagnosis. Your medical history, previous treatments, and current stage of life all play an important role in shaping the plan. With us, you are not a number, but an individual with your own experiences and challenges. Our goal is to support you in breaking unwanted patterns, restoring balance, and guiding you toward a future in which you feel better. With our personalized approach, you are given the space to work toward recovery at your own pace.
How we work
Your well-being is always our top priority. We work according to a clear, structured, and transparent approach, so you know exactly what to expect. Our team of experienced psychologists and psychiatrists specializes in the treatment of depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder, using both rTMS and talk therapy. What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized care and individual attention. We do not see you as a number, but as a person with your own story and specific needs. We listen carefully to your experiences and ensure that your treatment journey is fully tailored to you. Together, we work toward your recovery.
Registration and telephone intake
At rTMS International, you go through a few clear steps before treatment begins.
Referral from your general practitioner or specialist
You can register with us with or without a referral. In many cases, your general practitioner or a medical specialist will refer you to us with a referral letter. If you don’t have a referral yet but would like to register anyway, that’s no problem. We will first conduct a pre-intake to assess whether rTMS is a suitable option for you. If it is, we will then ask you to get a referral letter.
Pre-intake
During the telephone pre-intake, our triage specialist will ask questions about your diagnosis, symptoms, history, lifestyle, and contraindications. If there is any uncertainty regarding epilepsy, a QEEG is required first. In that case, we will refer you back to your referring physician for this assessment. Once epilepsy has been ruled out, the intake process will continue.
Review of the referral letter
After we receive your referral letter, we review whether all the necessary information is included. If needed, we will contact you or your general practitioner to request additional details or clarification. Once all information is complete, we schedule a pre-intake appointment. You will receive an email invitation with the details of the appointment.
Intake with the lead clinician
During the telephone intake, the lead clinician discusses your symptoms, a possible diagnosis, and the proposed treatment plan. This clinician, a psychiatrist, coordinates your care. Please note that due to high demand for our services, there may be a waiting period before treatment begins. You can find the current waiting times on our website.
Treatment plan and start of treatment
Before starting rTMS, we take the time to fully understand your symptoms and goals. Once everything is clear and the treatment plan suits you, we begin the treatment.
Complete the questionnaire
Before your first appointment, we ask you to complete one or more questionnaires so we can gain a clear understanding of your symptoms. This can be done at home or, if needed, during your visit.
Treatment plan and first appointment
During the intake appointment, we discuss your symptoms, how they affect your daily life, and the care you need. You are always welcome to bring someone with you for support, such as a family member or friend. Please bring a valid form of identification to your first appointment. Together with your clinician, you will create a treatment plan tailored to your situation. This plan is flexible and can be adjusted in consultation if needed. It outlines your goals, the treatment you will follow, and an overview of the scheduled appointments.
Start of treatment
You start with rTMS treatment. In addition, you may receive therapies that align with your symptoms and goals, such as CBT or ACT. Throughout the treatment process, we regularly evaluate whether the treatment continues to meet your needs and adjust it if necessary.
The concluding session
At the end of your treatment, we review together whether your goals have been achieved and whether you can continue independently. If additional support is needed, we discuss the next steps. We always consider what best fits your situation and pace of recovery.
What happens during a session?
What to expect during a treatment session.
What will you notice during the treatment?
- You will feel rapid, repetitive tapping sensations on your head, similar to someone tapping with a fingertip or a pencil.
- With each pulse, you will hear a distinct clicking sound from the coil.
- Some facial muscles may briefly move (such as the eyebrow, eyelid, or jaw); this is normal and harmless.
And after the treatment?
- You may experience sensitivity or headaches, which are usually mild and short-lived.
- It may feel as though the skin or muscles at the stimulation site are slightly tense.
- You may feel somewhat tired, but you can generally resume your daily activities as usual.
Practical tips
Before the session
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Eat a light meal beforehand and drink enough water
- Take paracetamol if you experience a headache
- Avoid sedating or stimulating substances (such as alcohol, cannabis, etc.)
After the session
- You can drive and return to work immediately
- Take paracetamol if you experience a headache
- Avoid sedating or stimulating substances
- Listen to your body and take a short break if you feel tired
After the treatment
If aftercare is needed, we will make joint agreements about how this will be arranged. This may include collaboration with your general practitioner or a mental health practice nurse. If there is a risk of relapse or crisis, we create a relapse prevention plan. This plan outlines how you and your loved ones can recognize early warning signs of relapse and what steps to take if they occur.
Relapse prevention plan
We work together to create a plan to help prevent relapse, so you know exactly what to do if things become difficult again.
Booster sessions
If there are signs of relapse, we can respond quickly with shorter treatment courses to help stabilize your mood again.
Referral
If rTMS does not produce the desired results, we will refer you back to the original referring clinician with a treatment recommendation.
Ready for a new step?
Want to know whether rTMS is right for you? We listen, think along with you, and support you step by step on your path to recovery.