Yes, rTMS is included in depression treatment guidelines as a treatment option for treatment-resistant depression. This means rTMS is used when previous treatments, such as medication or psychotherapy, have not been sufficiently effective. rTMS can also be applied in combination with other treatments. Within our care, we also offer psychotherapy alongside rTMS when appropriate.

An rTMS treatment typically consists of 30 to 50 sessions for a lasting effect. These sessions usually take place several times per week over the course of a few weeks. In more intensive treatment programs, sessions may even take place multiple times per day.

rTMS is a safe and scientifically validated treatment for depression and OCD. Although it is generally considered safe, there are some risks and possible side effects to be aware of. These are usually mild and do not occur in everyone. In rare cases, a seizure may occur. For individuals with a history of epilepsy, there is a theoretical increased risk, but this has never occurred in rTMS treatments in the Netherlands.

Some side effects may include:

• Headache: a common side effect that may occur during or after treatment (in about 10% of people)
• Mild pain or discomfort at the stimulation site: some people experience slight discomfort where the magnetic pulses are applied (rare)
• Mild dizziness: some patients report feeling lightheaded after a session (very rare)
• Muscle contractions or tingling: mild muscle twitches or tingling sensations may occur during stimulation (very rare)

rTMS is generally well tolerated and has few side effects. During the first sessions, the tapping sensation on the scalp may feel sensitive or even painful. This varies from person to person. Some clients may also experience mild headaches or small muscle twitches in the face. These are harmless and stop immediately after the stimulation ends. During the treatment, you will hear a clicking sound. Earplugs can be used if you find this disturbing. Any headache can usually be relieved with paracetamol. In most cases, discomfort decreases after several sessions.

It can be difficult to assess this yourself. With our suitability test (currently available in Dutch), you can get an initial indication of whether rTMS may be suitable for you. During the intake, our psychiatrist will assess whether rTMS is an appropriate treatment based on your symptoms.

Yes, rTMS can be used alongside medication for depression, and medication may be reduced if appropriate. This depends on your personal situation and treatment plan. Any adjustments will be discussed in consultation with your prescribing physician or one of our psychiatrists, if desired.

Yes, you can drive as usual after an rTMS treatment. The treatment does not affect your reaction time. If you feel unwell afterward, for example due to a headache, we recommend only driving if you feel fit and comfortable doing so.

Yes, there may be a waiting list, but these vary by location. On our clinics page, you can find the current waiting list for each clinic.

If you have treatment-resistant depression (where at least two previous treatments have not been sufficiently effective), rTMS is in many cases largely reimbursed by your health insurance. The exact reimbursement percentage varies per insurer and policy. Any remaining costs are waived by us, meaning you do not have to pay anything extra yourself. Currently, DSW and Zorg en Zekerheid do not reimburse rTMS treatment. You can view the reimbursement overview here. For costs per session and other fees, click here.

If you have treatment-resistant depression and want to qualify for reimbursement, a referral from your GP or psychiatrist is required. This referral must at least mention “treatment-resistant depression,” even if there are also symptoms such as anxiety or OCD. If you prefer to receive treatment anonymously, without informing your GP or insurance provider, a referral is not required. In both cases, there must be a diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression or OCD.

No, a referral is not required to sign up. You can register with us directly, even without one. We will start with a pre-intake to assess whether rTMS is suitable for you. If it is, we will then ask you to request a referral from your GP or specialist. This allows us to properly align your treatment plan with your situation. If the treatment is not reimbursed, a referral is not mandatory. During the intake, our psychiatrist will assess whether rTMS is indicated based on your symptoms.

At this time, rTMS International does not treat minors, as the treatment is not (yet) reimbursed by health insurers for this group. Additionally, there is currently insufficient research on the long-term effects in children.

rTMS is a technique that was introduced in the late 1990s as a treatment for depression. Since then, extensive scientific and clinical research has been conducted to establish its safety and effectiveness, as well as to determine the most effective treatment protocols. Research has shown that rTMS is a safe method that helps reduce depressive and/or OCD-related symptoms in a large number of patients. Several studies demonstrate that individuals with treatment-resistant depression can also respond positively to rTMS. In addition, rTMS is included in (inter)national depression treatment guidelines as a treatment option for treatment-resistant depression. Since 2008, rTMS has also been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).