A Personalized Approach to Overcoming Depression
Each person's experience with depression is unique: that's why our team at Rochester Regional Health uses a range of treatment options to create a personalized care plan tailored specifically to you. Our team is committed to providing the care, support, and expertise you need to address and overcome depression.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that takes a proactive approach to negative thoughts and behaviors that are common with depression. CBT focuses on teaching you valuable coping strategies and skills to manage and re-frame those negative thoughts and behaviors.
This short-term, goal-oriented therapy is designed to empower you with the tools you need to address your current challenges and to prepare for future hurdles.
Medication
Medication can be a key component of a comprehensive treatment plan. Studies have found that medication is most effective when a part of a balanced approach that combines medication with therapy and other depression treatments. Common classes of anti-depressants include:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) help prevent the breakdown of mood-boosting neurotransmitters
- Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) increase the levels of these neurotransmitters associated with alertness and energy
- Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) boost mood by enhancing these neurotransmitters
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increase serotonin levels, and are helpful for both severe and non-severe depression
- Tricyclic antidepressants were one of the first antidepressants developed, and are effective for treating many types of depression
Discovering the right balance of medication is a part of the journey to overcoming depression. The team at Rochester Regional Health's Adult Mental Health Program will work closely with you to find the right medication, monitoring and adjusting as needed to ensure it aligns with your unique needs and overall treatment goals.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive form of brain stimulation therapy, which uses powerful magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas on the surface of the brain involved when a person experiences depression or anxiety.
Recognized by the FDA for treating unipolar depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), TMS is an option for patients who haven't found relief with traditional depression treatments and therapies.
What Should I Expect with NeuroStar TMS?
Beginning your TMS journey involves an initial consultation and mental health evaluation to ensure this treatment is suited to your specific needs. Here’s what you can expect during your sessions using the NeuroStar TMS system:
- Initial Session: Your first TMS session will be slightly longer, lasting about an hour. In a private setting, you'll be comfortably seated as our providers determine the optimal placement for the magnetic coil on your head.
- Non-Invasive Procedure: Once the coil is positioned, it will emit gentle magnetic pulses, stimulating the targeted brain areas. You may feel a light tapping sensation and hear a clicking sound, but the process is designed to be comfortable and non-invasive.
- Quicker Returning Visits: Following the initial session, subsequent visits are typically shorter, often under 20 minutes. The entire treatment course is structured to fit seamlessly into your life, allowing you to resume daily activities immediately after each session.
While individual experiences with TMS vary, many patients begin to notice improvements within the first few weeks. The most pronounced benefits often appear when the full course of treatment is completed, with some studies indicating significant improvements for a majority of patients who had limited success with medication.
Visit the Rochester Regional Health Psychiatric Therapeutics Program
Call for a Consultation
Are You Feeling Depressed?
Take our online assessment to understand your risk for depression and anxiety.
A NeuroStar TMS system, which allows for non-invasive treatment of depression through magnetic pulses in targeted areas of the brain Frequently Asked Questions about TMS
Instances of seizures are extremely rare. For your safety, a medical provider will always be present during TMS sessions.
While TMS therapy is covered by most insurance plans, it's important to confirm with your provider, as Medicaid and Managed Medicaid plans generally do not cover TMS.
We recommend discussing the cost and coverage with your insurance provider ahead of starting the treatment
TMS, on the other hand, is a non-invasive treatment with minimal to no side effects and does not disrupt your daily function or routine. Your psychiatrist will guide you in choosing the treatment that aligns best with your health needs and lifestyle.
TMS has shown effectiveness in treating anxious depression and has been approved for treating OCD. However, insurance coverage for OCD and generalized anxiety treatments may vary, and it's advisable to check with your provider.
Currently, TMS is not FDA-approved for treating bipolar depression and may not be covered by insurance for this specific condition. We recommend discussing all potential treatment options with your psychiatrist.
TMS may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain types of implants or metal pieces in or around the head may not be eligible. This includes:
- Cochlear implants
- Non-removable cosmetic metal implants in the face or skull
- Metal fragments from injuries
- Metal in the skull from previous surgeries
NeuroStar TMS is a non-invasive FDA-cleared therapy that uses short magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain that controls mood.