Your rTMS Treatment Journey
Beginning a new treatment journey can feel overwhelming. We're here to guide and support you every step of the way. Here's what to expect throughout your personalized rTMS program at The Sherpah Clinic.
Getting Started
Obtain Your Referral
To begin rTMS therapy at The Sherpah Clinic, you'll need a referral from your healthcare provider. This can be obtained from:
- Your General Practitioner (GP)
- A Psychiatrist
- Other qualified allied health professionals
Important: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, while specialist referrals are valid for 3 months. You'll need a new referral after expiry.
Initial Screening Call
Once we receive your referral, one of our experienced TMS clinicians will reach out to you for a brief screening conversation. During this call, we'll:
- Provide detailed information about rTMS therapy and what to expect
- Answer any questions or concerns you may have
- Discuss your medical history and treatment goals
- Determine if any additional assessments (such as an MRI scan) are needed
This is your opportunity to ask questions and ensure rTMS therapy is the right choice for you.
Pre-Consent Information Session
You'll be scheduled for a pre-consent information session with one of our senior TMS clinicians. This 15-20 minute consultation helps us:
- Prepare for your upcoming psychiatrist appointment
- Ensure you have all the information needed to make an informed decision
- Discuss your treatment timeline and what to expect
- Address any remaining questions or concerns
Note: There is no fee for this information session.
During Treatment
Psychiatrist Consultation & Treatment Mapping
Your first in-person visit will be with one of our TMS psychiatrists. During this appointment:
- Review and sign consent forms for treatment
- Discuss your personalized treatment plan and protocol
- Undergo motor threshold testing to determine your optimal dosage
- Complete brain mapping to target the precise treatment areas
What is Motor Threshold Testing? This process involves applying single magnetic pulses to determine the stimulation intensity that produces a response in your brain. This ensures your treatment is calibrated specifically for you.
Please Note: This appointment focuses exclusively on your rTMS treatment plan. For general psychiatric consultations or medication management, please contact your regular psychiatrist.
Your Treatment Course
A standard initial course of rTMS therapy typically includes:
- Up to 35 treatment sessions over 7-9 weeks
- 5 sessions per week (Monday through Friday)
- 20-minute sessions - quick and convenient
- No downtime - return to your normal activities immediately
Throughout your treatment, our clinical team will regularly monitor your progress and adjust your protocol as needed to ensure optimal results.
Final Review & Assessment
After completing your treatment course, you'll have a comprehensive review appointment to:
- Evaluate your progress and treatment outcomes
- Discuss your experience and any changes you've noticed
- Create a personalized maintenance plan, if needed
- Provide guidance on long-term wellness strategies
This is also an opportunity to ask questions about maintaining your progress and when to consider additional support.
After Treatment
Maintenance Sessions
Some patients benefit from periodic maintenance sessions to sustain their treatment gains. Maintenance therapy is individualized based on your needs:
- Typically scheduled 3-6 months after completing your initial course
- Medicare patients can access up to 15 maintenance sessions (available 4 months after the initial course)
- Frequency and duration tailored to your response and lifestyle
- Some patients choose regular "top-up" sessions to maintain wellness
Your treatment team will recommend the best maintenance schedule for you based on your individual progress and needs.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Have questions or want to learn more about rTMS therapy? Our friendly team is here to help guide you through every step of the process.