What’s The Difference Between TMS & ECT?

What’s The Difference Between TMS & ECT?

The Albany Clinic • June 2, 2023

Mental health conditions can be challenging to treat, and traditional therapy, medication, or lifestyle changes may not always be enough to provide relief. For patients with treatment-resistant depression, two alternative treatments are TMS and ECT. Many people confuse the two, but they are very different methods of treatment.

In this article, we will explore the differences between TMS and ECT and examine their effectiveness, side effects, and who can benefit from each treatment.

Understanding TMS & ECT

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are two treatments used to alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. While both treatments are effective, they differ in their approach and level of invasiveness.

What Is TMS?

TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This stimulation can help alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.

During a TMS session, the patient sits in a comfortable chair while a technician holds a coil over their head. The coil sends magnetic pulses to the brain, which stimulates nerve cells and improves mood. TMS treatments are typically performed in an outpatient setting and do not require anesthesia or sedation.

One of the benefits of TMS is that it is a relatively safe and painless procedure. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the treatment, and there are typically no side effects. Additionally, TMS can be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as medication and therapy, to enhance their effectiveness.

What Is ECT?

ECT is a more invasive treatment that uses electric currents to trigger a seizure in the brain. The seizure can help alleviate symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions.

During an ECT session, the patient is given an anesthetic and a muscle relaxant to prevent them from convulsing. Then, electrodes are attached to their scalp, and an electrical current is passed through the brain to induce a seizure. ECT treatments are typically done in an outpatient setting, but require sedation or anesthesia.

ECT is generally reserved for patients who have not responded to other treatments, such as medication and therapy. It can be an effective treatment for severe depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental health conditions. However, ECT is more invasive than TMS and can have more side effects, such as memory loss and confusion. Patients may also experience headaches, muscle aches, and nausea after the treatment.

Which Treatment Is Right For You?

If you are struggling with depression or another mental health condition, it is vital to talk to your doctor about your treatment options. TMS and ECT are just two of the many treatments available, and your doctor can help you determine which one is right for you. Factors such as the severity of your symptoms, your medical history, and your personal preferences will all be taken into account when deciding on a treatment plan.

Remember, seeking treatment is an important step towards improving your mental health and overall well-being. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage your symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.

The Science Behind TMS & ECT

How TMS Works

When the magnetic pulses from TMS pass through the brain, they stimulate the nerve cells in the prefrontal cortex. This area of the brain is responsible for mood regulation, and by stimulating it, TMS can improve symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. TMS treatments typically last 20-30 minutes and are performed five days a week for four to six weeks.

During a TMS session, the patient sits in a chair and a magnetic coil is placed on their scalp. The magnetic pulses are painless and do not require anesthesia. Some patients may experience a tapping or knocking sensation on their scalp during the treatment, but this is generally well-tolerated.

TMS is a relatively new treatment, having been approved by the FDA in 2008. It is considered a safe and effective treatment option for patients who have not responded well to other treatments, such as medication and therapy.

How ECT Works

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been used to treat mental illness for over 80 years. During an ECT session, an electric current is passed through the brain, triggering a seizure. This seizure has been linked to the release of chemicals in the brain that can improve mood. However, the exact mechanism of action is not well understood.

ECT treatments are usually given two to three times per week, for a total of six to twelve treatments, depending on the patient’s response. During the treatment, the patient is given anesthesia and a muscle relaxant to prevent injury during the seizure.

While ECT has a reputation for being a harsh and outdated treatment, it is still used today in cases where other treatments have not been effective. It is generally reserved for patients with severe depression or other mental health conditions who are at risk of harm to themselves or others.

Despite its effectiveness, ECT does have some potential side effects, such as memory loss, confusion, and headaches. However, these side effects are usually temporary and can be managed with medication and therapy.

Comparing TMS & ECT

Effectiveness In Treating Mental Health Conditions

Both TMS and ECT have been shown to be effective in treating depression and other mental health conditions. TMS has been FDA-approved since 2008 and has been shown to be effective in approximately 60% of patients. ECT has been in use since the 1930s and has been shown to be effective in approximately 70% of patients. However, ECT is typically reserved for patients with more severe and treatment-resistant depression.

It is crucial to note that the effectiveness of these treatments may vary depending on the individual patient and their specific mental health condition. Some patients may respond better to TMS, while others may respond better to ECT. It is essential for patients to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best treatment option for their individual needs.

Side Effects & Risks

TMS is a non-invasive treatment and does not have many reported side effects. Some patients may experience headaches or mild discomfort at the site of the magnetic pulses. These side effects are typically mild and go away shortly after the treatment is completed.

ECT, on the other hand, is a more invasive treatment and has more associated risks. Patients may experience confusion, memory loss, or headaches after an ECT treatment. These side effects are typically short-term and go away within a few hours to a few days after the treatment is completed. However, in rare cases, patients may experience more serious side effects, such as heart problems or seizures.

It is important for patients to discuss the potential side effects and risks of each treatment option with their healthcare provider before making a decision.

Duration & Frequency Of Treatments

TMS treatments last approximately 20-30 minutes, and patients typically require five treatments per week for four to six weeks. This treatment schedule allows patients to continue with their daily activities and does not require any downtime or recovery time.

ECT treatments last longer, approximately 10-20 minutes, but patients may require more treatments. In total, patients usually receive six to twelve ECT treatments, two to three times per week. This treatment schedule may require patients to take time off from work or other daily activities to recover from the treatment.

It is critical for patients to consider the duration and frequency of treatments when choosing between TMS and ECT. TMS may be a more convenient option for patients who have busy schedules or who do not want to take time off from work or other daily activities. ECT may be a better option for patients who require more intensive treatment or who have not responded well to other treatment options.

Who Can Benefit From TMS & ECT?

Candidates For TMS

TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is typically recommended for patients with treatment-resistant depression or those who cannot tolerate medication. TMS has been shown to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.

During a TMS session , the patient sits in a comfortable chair while a magnetic coil is placed on their head. The coil delivers magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain that are responsible for regulating mood. The treatment is painless and does not require any anesthesia.

Patients with metal implants in the head or neck should not undergo TMS treatments. Additionally, TMS may not be suitable for patients with a history of seizures or other neurological conditions.

Candidates For ECT

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a more invasive treatment that involves passing electrical currents through the brain to trigger a seizure. ECT is typically recommended for patients with severe, treatment-resistant depression, or those who are suicidal.

ECT has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. However, it is usually considered a last resort treatment due to its potential side effects.

During an ECT session, the patient is given anesthesia and a muscle relaxant to prevent injury during the seizure. The electrical currents are delivered through electrodes placed on the scalp. The treatment usually takes less than 30 minutes.

Patients with a history of heart problems, seizures, or other medical conditions may not be able to undergo ECT treatments. Additionally, ECT can cause side effects such as confusion, memory loss, and headaches.

The Future Of TMS & ECT

Advances In TMS Technology

Currently, researchers are investigating new ways to deliver TMS treatments, such as using multiple coils at once to stimulate multiple areas of the brain. These advances may increase the effectiveness and efficiency of TMS treatments.

Advances In ECT Technology

Newer ECT machines use lower levels of electricity, which may reduce the risk of side effects such as memory loss. There is also research being done to combine ECT with other treatments, such as medication or psychotherapy.

Conclusion

At The Albany Clinic , we understand the importance of finding the right treatment for individuals with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions. TMS and ECT are two valuable options that offer distinct benefits and risks.

If you or someone you know is considering these treatments, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We will assess your unique needs and help you make an informed decision about the most suitable treatment option for you. Take the next step towards finding relief and improving your mental well-being by reaching out to The Albany Clinic today. Your journey to a better quality of life starts here.

If you are interested in learning more about ketamine for TMS therapy treatment in Carbondale, IL, contact the Albany Clinic and request your consultation today.

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Ketamine for PTSD: Science, Benefits, and What to Expect

By Kimberly Mercille • September 4, 2025
Living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be debilitating. Nightmares, flashbacks, and a constant sense of being “on edge” can interfere with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. If you’ve tried therapy or medications without lasting relief, you’re not alone—and there may be another option. At the Albany Clinic in Carbondale, Illinois, we specialize in ketamine therapy as a promising treatment for PTSD. Understanding PTSD Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after experiencing or witnessing trauma. While everyone responds to trauma differently, common symptoms include: Intrusive memories or flashbacks Avoidance of reminders of the trauma Emotional numbness or detachment Heightened anxiety , irritability , or trouble sleeping Some people also develop complex PTSD (CPTSD) , which stems from repeated or prolonged trauma. CPTSD often comes with additional challenges, such as difficulty regulating emotions or maintaining healthy relationships. Current Treatments and Their Limitations The most common treatments for PTSD include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) , eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) , and antidepressant medications . For many people, these treatments can be helpful. However, they also come with challenges: Medications may take weeks to work and don’t help everyone. Therapy can take months or years to create lasting change. Therapies can be difficult to engage with, as they involve discussing the trauma, which can be distressing or may cause someone to shut down emotionally. Some individuals continue to experience severe symptoms despite treatment. This is where ketamine therapy offers a new avenue of hope. How Ketamine May Help PTSD Ketamine works differently from traditional antidepressants. Instead of gradually altering brain chemistry, ketamine acts quickly on key brain circuits involved in mood and fear. Rebalancing brain activity : Ketamine boosts activity in the prefrontal cortex , the part of the brain that helps regulate emotions. It also decreases activity in the amygdala , the brain’s fear center, helping reduce anxiety and hypervigilance. Promoting neuroplasticity : Ketamine encourages new connections between brain areas, helping “rewire” pathways associated with PTSD symptoms. Supporting fear extinction : Ketamine supports fear extinction, the process by which the brain ‘unlearns’ fearful responses to things it expects to be threatening. This is especially important in PTSD, where people may react to safe situations or cues as if they were actual threats. Benefits of Ketamine for PTSD Research continues to grow, but studies and clinical experience have shown several promising benefits: Rapid relief : Many patients notice improvements within hours to days, rather than weeks. This can be especially important during a mental health crisis or for those struggling with suicidal thoughts. Effective when other treatments have failed : Ketamine can offer relief even for people who haven’t responded to medications or therapy. Sustained improvement : With a series of treatments, many patients experience lasting relief from PTSD symptoms. Increases the benefits of other therapies : Ketamine may speed up the outcomes of other trauma-based therapies, such as prolonged exposure therapy . In a 2021 study , people with severe PTSD received either ketamine or a comparison drug over two weeks. Those given ketamine showed much faster and greater improvement in PTSD and depression symptoms. About 67% had significantly improved symptoms , with the biggest differences in intrusive memories, avoidance, and negative thoughts and mood. The treatment was also well-tolerated with few adverse effects. Ketamine Treatment for PTSD at the Albany Clinic At the Albany Clinic in Carbondale, Illinois, we are dedicated to providing safe, effective ketamine therapy for people with PTSD and other psychiatric disorders. We administer ketamine intravenously to support a rapid reduction in symptoms. Here’s what you can expect: A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation before treatment begins Comfortable, private treatment rooms Careful monitoring by experienced medical professionals throughout each session A personalized treatment plan designed around your needs During your treatment, you’ll have a small plastic catheter inserted into a vein in your arm, which will deliver ketamine straight into your bloodstream. You may experience mild side effects, such as dizziness and dissociation , which can make you feel disconnected from your body and the world around you. These typically wear off after the session is finished. The infusion takes 45 minutes to one hour , and you’ll be closely monitored by staff during the infusion and afterwards to ensure your safety. We’ll provide you with guidance on aftercare once you’re done and how to make the most of your new headspace. Most people with PTSD require multiple infusions to experience sustained, meaningful changes. However, the treatment plan will be tailored according to your unique needs. Get in Touch Today If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD and current treatments haven’t provided the relief you need, ketamine therapy may be an option worth exploring. At the Albany Clinic, we are here to answer your questions and guide you through every step of the process. Get in touch to find out more.

Innovative Depression Treatments That Saved My Life

By Matt Rodriguez • September 2, 2025
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people across all walks of life. While many find relief through traditional methods, they don’t work for everyone. Some people can struggle with depression for nearly a lifetime, and in severe cases, may even consider taking their own lives. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in innovative, evidence-based treatments that can help patients overcome depression, even when other therapies haven’t worked. In this article, we’ll discuss these treatments and how clinics such as our own are saving lives.

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine Therapy: What’s Best for Your Mental Health?

By Kimberly Mercille • July 9, 2025
As ketamine therapy becomes increasingly popular for treating mental health conditions like depression and PTSD, more people are exploring their options. At-home ketamine therapy gained traction during the pandemic for its convenience, but without medical supervision, this approach may come with elevated risks. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key differences and pros and cons of in-clinic versus at-home ketamine therapy. What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy? IV Ketamine Treatment In-clinic ketamine therapy involves receiving treatment at a licensed medical facility, such as The Albany Clinic , where professionals monitor and administer the medication under strict protocols. This ensures your safety, especially during your initial sessions. At The Albany Clinic, we specialize in intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy , which has been most well-researched when it comes to treating mental health disorders. IV ketamine bypasses the digestive system, delivering the medication directly into the bloodstream. IV ketamine can help relieve symptoms of various mental health disorders, including depression , anxiety , post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) , and more. During an infusion at our clinic, you’ll rest in a calm, controlled environment while ketamine is delivered into a vein through a catheter. Our trained staff will closely monitor your vital signs and mental state throughout the session, adjusting the dose of ketamine if needed. We’ll observe you after treatment to ensure any side effects are managed promptly and effectively. Spravato We also offer Spravato (esketamine) at our clinic, a nasal spray based on ketamine. Unlike other forms of ketamine treatment, Spravato is approved by the FDA and is specifically for adults with treatment-resistant depression or major depressive disorder with suicidal thoughts . Spravato is only approved for in-clinic use under professional supervision and cannot be administered at home, making clinical oversight a legal and medical necessity for this treatment option. During a Spravato session, you’ll self-administer the medication under the supervision of our medical staff. We’ll then closely monitor you for a couple of hours to ensure you’re safe and all side effects have subsided before leaving. What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy? At-home ketamine therapy allows patients to self-administer the ketamine, typically in the form of lozenges or nasal sprays, delivered via mail. While this option offers flexibility, it usually involves minimal supervision , often limited to virtual check-ins with healthcare providers. Some at-home providers offer optional video support during sessions, but this is not always the case. Patients are largely responsible for monitoring their own physical and emotional reactions, without the benefit of immediate medical intervention if adverse effects occur. At-home treatment often includes supplementary materials , such as guided meditations or journaling tools. However, the lack of real-time clinical oversight makes this option less ideal for those with complex or severe mental health needs. Safety Considerations: In-Clinic vs. At-Home While ketamine therapy is considered safe for most patients, it does come with potential physical and psychological side effects , including: Physical Risks: Elevated blood pressure or heart rate Nausea or vomiting Sedation or dizziness Impaired coordination Rare allergic reactions Psychological Risks: Hallucinations or dissociation Temporary confusion or anxiety Emotional vulnerability during treatment Risk of misuse or dependency The FDA has issued warnings about at-home ketamine use due to its potential for abuse and lack of medical supervision . Without proper monitoring, the risk of addiction and long-term complications, such as bladder damage and cognitive decline, may increase. Key Differences Between In-Clinic and At-Home Ketamine Therapy