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Deep TMS Treatment for Depression in Colorado
When antidepressants and therapy have not helped enough, your next step should not be another guess.
Axis Integrated Mental Health offers BrainsWay Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS), a noninvasive, FDA-cleared treatment for major depressive disorder. Treatment does not require anesthesia or sedation, and most people can return to work, drive, or continue their day after a standard session.
Your care includes psychiatric oversight, help with insurance requirements, symptom tracking, and coordination with your current therapist or prescriber when needed. Deep TMS is available at Axis clinics in Denver/Aurora, Denver Tech Center, Boulder/Louisville, and Westminster.
Not all TMS is the same and not every TMS provider offers a full care team. Axis combines the most advanced Deep TMS technology with integrated psychiatry, therapy, Spravato®, and personalized depression care.
Medically reviewed by Kartiki Churi, MD, MBA, FAPA, Chief Medical Officer and board-certified psychiatrist at Axis Integrated Mental Health. Last reviewed July 31, 2026.
What Is Deep TMS?
Direct answer
Deep TMS is a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation that uses a helmet-shaped H-coil to deliver magnetic pulses to brain networks involved in mood. It is noninvasive and does not use surgery, anesthesia, or a medication taken into the body.
The magnetic field creates small electrical currents in targeted areas of the brain. With repeated treatment, TMS can change activity and communication in networks linked to depression. Researchers are still studying the full mechanism, but TMS has a well-established evidence base for major depressive disorder that has not improved enough with standard treatment.
Axis uses BrainsWay Deep TMS technology. The BrainsWay system is FDA-cleared for depressive episodes in adults with major depressive disorder who did not improve enough with antidepressant medication in the current episode. It is also cleared to decrease anxiety symptoms in adults with major depression and comorbid anxiety. The system received an additional FDA clearance in 2025 as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder in adolescents ages 15 to 21.
Deep TMS may be worth discussing when:
- You have major depression and still feel stuck after one or more adequate medication trials.
- Medication side effects make it hard to continue treatment.
- Depression is affecting work, school, relationships, sleep, motivation, or daily functioning.
- You want a non-drug treatment that does not require anesthesia or a recovery period.
- You have depression with significant anxiety symptoms.
- You are age 15 or older and a psychiatric provider believes TMS may be appropriate. Device clearance, clinical fit, and insurance criteria are not always the same.
A psychiatric evaluation is the only way to know whether TMS is appropriate for you. Insurance plans often require documentation of two antidepressant trials and psychotherapy, even when the device labeling or clinical evidence is broader.
Why Choose Deep TMS at Axis?
Deep TMS technology is more advanced
Traditional TMS (rTMS) often uses a small figure-8 coil that creates a focused magnetic field near the surface of the cortex. BrainsWay Deep TMS (dTMS) uses an H-coil built into a helmet and is the latest technology. The H-coil is designed to stimulate a broader and deeper field while staying within established safety limits. Both approaches are evidence-based but Deep TMS’ technology differences deliver deeper penetration and superior efficacy and remission rates to rTMS.
A full depression care team under one roof
TMS works best as part of a complete treatment plan, not as an isolated procedure. Axis can coordinate Deep TMS with psychiatry, medication management, therapy, Spravato, lifestyle support, or your existing outside providers. You do not have to leave a trusted therapist or psychiatrist to receive TMS at Axis.
Insurance support before treatment begins
Our team reviews your plan, gathers the clinical documentation required by your insurer, submits prior authorization, and explains your estimated cost before treatment. You can also use the free TMS Cost Calculator for a quick estimate or read our article on TMS costs for initial research. Our cash pay rates for the standard protocol (36 treatments over 7-12 weeks) is $5,500 and $7500 for the 6 day accelerated protocol.
Perinatal Depression Also Treated
Many TMS Centers do not take pregnant women despite the fact that even highly respected hospitals like Massaschusetts General Hospital recommends TMS as a drug-free alternative to manage depression during pregnancy. We are happy to see pregnant and post-partum women who need mental health support.
Four Front Range treatment locations
Deep TMS requires in-person appointments. Axis provides treatment in Denver/Aurora, Denver Tech Center, Boulder/Louisville, and Westminster, giving patients across the Front Range a location closer to home, work, or school.
Deep TMS Results: What the Research Actually Shows
TMS outcome numbers can look confusing because randomized clinical trials and real-world studies answer different questions. Randomized trials compare active treatment with sham treatment under controlled conditions. Naturalistic studies look at what happened in routine clinical care, where treatment length and patient selection can differ.
| Evidence type | Patients | Response | Remission |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Meta-analysis, sham-controlled trials | Adults with MDD | 39.68% active vs. 13.71% sham | 35.71% active vs. 8.37% sham |
| Large naturalistic Deep TMS study | 1,351 patients in routine care | 81.6% after 30 sessions* | 65.3% after 30 sessions* |
*The naturalistic percentages were calculated among patients with at least one outcome scale who completed 30 sessions. These are published study results, not Axis-specific outcomes, and they do not guarantee an individual result.
In the same real-world study, the median onset of sustained response was 16 sessions, and the median onset of sustained remission was 17 sessions. Some people notice small changes earlier. Others improve later or need a longer course. Your team will track symptoms throughout treatment so the plan can be adjusted based on your response.
Standard and Accelerated Deep TMS
| Standard Deep TMS | Accelerated Deep TMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical schedule | Usually one session per treatment day, five days per week for first 4-5 weeks | Multiple 10 minute sessions on each treatment day over 4 hours. |
| Acute phase | Commonly four to six weeks, followed by tapering period of twice a week as necessary | FDA-cleared protocol includes an acute phase of six treatment days over 14 days, followed by follow-up visits |
| Session length | Often about 20 minutes | Individual stimulation sessions are under 10 minutes, with rest periods between sessions |
| Insurance | Often covered when medical-necessity criteria are met. See our TMS Cost article for most common insurance plans for age ranges and eligibility requirements. | Not covered by most insurance plans. $7,500 cash pay. |
Axis offers standard Deep TMS and can discuss whether an accelerated protocol is clinically appropriate and available for you. Faster scheduling does not mean the treatment is right for every patient, and insurance approval is not automatic.
Do you want to know how much TMS will cost with your insurance coverage?
We now offer a free TMS Cost Calculator if you want a rough estimate of your out-of-pocket cost for Deep TMS. If you still have questions about your specific insurance benefits, you can book a free financial consultation with one of our team members who can check your coverage and walk you through your insurance plan.
At your appointment, we’ll tell you:
- What your insurance plan requires to cover treatment
- Your estimated out-of-pocket cost
- What you can expect from TMS treatment including time commitments, when you might to start feeling better, and other options.
We believe that costs should not be the only reason you don’t get the mental health care. Ask our team about payment plans, alternative payments, and more on your call.
Book Now Before Slots Fill-out.
What to Expect During TMS Treatment
Psychiatric evaluation and eligibility review
A psychiatric provider reviews your symptoms, diagnoses, medication trials, therapy history, health conditions, implants, seizure risk, and treatment goals. The insurance team checks coverage and prior-authorization requirements.
Brain mapping and your first session
Your first treatment visit is longer because the team measures your motor threshold and identifies the treatment position. This helps set a safe, individualized stimulation level.
Brief in-office treatments
You sit in a treatment chair while the helmet is positioned. You will hear clicking and feel tapping or pressure on the scalp. You stay awake and can talk, listen to music, or take part in Axis StorySHIFT activities.
Ongoing symptom tracking
Your team checks symptoms and side effects throughout the course. Small changes in sleep, energy, motivation, irritability, anxiety, or daily functioning may appear before a dramatic mood shift.
Completion and follow-up plan
At the end of the acute course, your provider reviews progress and discusses tapering, maintenance, medications, therapy, relapse-prevention steps, or other options.
What does TMS feel like?
Most patients describe rhythmic tapping on the scalp. The sensation can feel strong during the first few visits but often becomes easier as the scalp adjusts. Tell the technician immediately if the position or intensity feels uncomfortable.
Deep TMS Cost Calculator
Estimate your out-of-pocket cost in under 60 seconds
This is a general estimate only. Your actual cost may differ. Axis verifies your exact benefits before treatment begins. No insurance data is stored.
Important: This is an estimate only, not a guarantee or full benefits investigation. Actual costs depend on your specific plan and claim processing. You are not required or encouraged to book services with Axis based upon this calculator. The calculator is provided as a certain mental and behavioral health concerns.
TMS Side Effects and Safety
TMS does not expose the whole body to a medication, but that does not mean it has no risks or side effects. Most side effects are mild and occur during or shortly after treatment.
Common side effects
- Scalp tenderness or discomfort
- Mild headache
- Tingling or tapping sensations
- Temporary facial or jaw muscle movement during stimulation
Rare but important risks
- Seizure is a rare risk. Your provider reviews medications, sleep, alcohol or substance use, and seizure history before and during treatment.
- TMS creates loud clicks, so hearing protection is used during treatment.
- People with bipolar disorder require careful screening and monitoring for mood elevation or mania.
Who needs extra screening?
Tell the Axis team about any metal or electronic implant in or near your head, including cochlear implants, aneurysm clips or coils, deep brain stimulators, implanted electrodes, or other devices. Dental fillings and braces do not automatically rule out TMS. Also tell the team about seizures, brain injury, neurological conditions, pregnancy, major medication changes, poor sleep, or recent alcohol or substance use. A provider will decide what is safe in your specific case.
Does Insurance Cover TMS?
Does Insurance Cover TMS?
Before treatment, the Axis insurance team can help you understand:
- Which clinical records your plan requires
- Whether your plan requires two or more antidepressant trials
- Whether psychotherapy must be documented
- Your estimated deductible, copay, coinsurance, and out-of-pocket cost
- Whether standard or accelerated treatment is covered
- What options may be available if insurance denies coverage
Use the free TMS Cost Calculator for a rough estimate, or request a benefits check for plan-specific information. The calculator is educational and is not a guarantee of coverage or final cost.
Deep TMS for Teens Ages 15 and Older
Axis evaluates teens age 15 and older individually. The assessment considers symptom severity, safety, prior treatment, family involvement, school functioning, therapy, medication history, and the teen’s ability to complete the treatment schedule. Insurance policies for adolescent TMS may be narrower than the FDA-cleared indication.
Deep TMS Locations in Colorado
| Clinic | Address | Communities served |
|---|---|---|
| Denver/Aurora | 1444 S Potomac St, Suite 220, Aurora, CO 80012 | Aurora, East Denver, Park Hill, Central Park, Lowry, Montbello, Green Valley Ranch |
| Boulder/Louisville | 400 S McCaslin Blvd, Suite 111, Louisville, CO 80027 | Boulder, Louisville, Lafayette, Superior, Broomfield, Erie |
| Session length | Often about 20 minutes | Individual stimulation sessions are under 10 minutes, with rest periods between sessions |
| Westminster | 8758 Wolff Ct., Suite 205, Westminster, CO 80031 | Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Thornton, Northglenn, Federal Heights |
| Denver Tech Center | 6950 E Belleview Ave, Suite 300, Denver, CO 80111 | DTC, Greenwood Village, Englewood, Centennial, Littleton, Highlands Ranch |
Call or text (720) 400-7025 to confirm treatment availability and scheduling at the location that works best for you. Psychiatry and therapy may be available through telehealth across Colorado, but TMS treatments must be completed in person.
Download the Free TMS Guide
Want to understand the treatment before you schedule?
Download the free tms guide
The free Axis Guide to TMS explains preparation, treatment visits, common questions, the treatment timeline, and ways to support yourself during the process.
Deep TMS has shown benefit in both controlled trials and routine clinical care. A 2023 study over over 1400 patients reported 81.6% response and 65.3% remission among patients with outcome data who completed 30 sessions. Results vary, and no study can predict an individual outcome.
Some patients notice changes after the first few weeks. In a large naturalistic Deep TMS study, the median onset of sustained response was 16 sessions and sustained remission was 17 sessions. Improvement can start with sleep, energy, motivation, concentration, or reduced irritability before mood feels clearly different. Interestingly, some of the first signs we often see are things like decreased online food delivery orders or online shopping and increased motivation for self-care.
TMS is not generally associated with the memory loss linked to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Most patients remain awake, alert, and cognitively functional during and after a session. Tell your provider about any new cognitive symptom so it can be evaluated.
The BrainsWay Deep TMS system is FDA-cleared as an adjunctive treatment for major depressive disorder in adolescents ages 15 and over. Clinical fit and insurance coverage still require individual review. Axis evaluates teens age 15 and older when appropriate.
Most patients can drive and return to normal activities after treatment because TMS does not use anesthesia or sedation. Follow any individual instructions from your clinician, especially if you develop a headache, feel unwell, or have another medical concern.
Additional resources
- Efficacy and safety of deep transcranial magnetic stimulation for major depression. World Psychiatry, 2015. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4329899/ Pivotal multicenter randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial.
- Deep TMS H1 Coil treatment for depression: Results from a large post-marketing data analysis. Psychiatry Research, 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37030054/ Naturalistic outcomes, session-response timing, and 30-session response/remission data.
- BrainsWay Deep TMS System, adult MDD and anxiety labeling. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, K222196. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf22/K222196.pdf
- BrainsWay accelerated Deep TMS protocol clearance. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, K251449. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf25/K251449.pdf
- BrainsWay Deep TMS adolescent MDD indication, ages 15-21. U.S. Food and Drug Administration, K251391. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf25/K251391.pdf
- Brain Stimulation Therapies. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/brain-stimulation-therapies/brain-stimulation-therapies
- Safety and recommendations for TMS use. Clinical Neurophysiology, 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33243615/
