UCSF Department of Psychiatry

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About the Clinic

Serving patients throughout San Francisco, California, UCSF Department of Psychiatry offers state-of-the-art TMS therapy — an FDA-cleared treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions involved in mood regulation.

Located in San Francisco, California, our clinic serves patients throughout San Francisco and the surrounding areas. We understand that mental health treatment is deeply personal, which is why we take a patient-centered approach to every consultation.

Advanced TMS Devices

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Psychiatric hospital Doctor Hospital

Insurance and Cost Details

Accepts Insurance

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Insurance information not yet listed. Most TMS clinics accept Medicare and major insurers — check our coverage guide.

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Patient Stories

Real experiences from patients treated at UCSF Department of Psychiatry.

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★★★★★

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is TMS therapy and how does it work at UCSF Department of Psychiatry?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. At UCSF Department of Psychiatry to precisely target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), the brain region associated with mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS does not circulate through the bloodstream, so patients experience minimal to no systemic side effects. A typical treatment course involves 36 sessions over 6-9 weeks, with each session lasting approximately 19-20 minutes.

Does UCSF Department of Psychiatry accept my insurance for TMS therapy?

We recommend contacting UCSF Department of Psychiatry directly to discuss insurance coverage. Our administrative team can verify your benefits and assist with prior authorization. Most major insurance plans cover TMS therapy for treatment-resistant depression.

What should I expect during my first TMS session in San Francisco?

Your first TMS session at UCSF Department of Psychiatry begins with the treatment team determining your motor threshold, which calibrates the magnetic pulse intensity to your individual brain. You will be seated comfortably in a treatment chair while a coil is positioned against your head. You may feel a tapping sensation on your scalp during treatment. Sessions typically last 19-20 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward, including driving. There is no anesthesia or sedation required. Most patients describe the experience as comfortable and use the time to relax, read, or listen to music.

How quickly will I see results from TMS therapy?

Individual response times vary, but many patients at UCSF Department of Psychiatry begin noticing improvements in mood, energy, and sleep within the first 2-3 weeks of treatment. The full course of treatment typically spans 36 sessions over 6-9 weeks. Clinical studies show that approximately 50-60% of patients with treatment-resistant depression achieve meaningful improvement, and about one-third experience complete remission. Our clinical team monitors your progress throughout treatment and can adjust protocols as needed.

Are there any side effects of TMS treatment?

TMS therapy is one of the safest treatments available for depression. The most common side effect is mild scalp discomfort or a tapping sensation at the treatment site during sessions, which typically diminishes after the first few treatments. Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS does not cause weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, or drowsiness. There is no recovery time needed after sessions. The most serious but rare risk is seizure, occurring in less than 0.1% of patients. Our clinical team at UCSF Department of Psychiatry conducts thorough screening to minimize any risks.

How much does TMS therapy cost at UCSF Department of Psychiatry?

TMS therapy costs vary based on insurance coverage, treatment protocol, and session count. Contact UCSF Department of Psychiatry for pricing details. Our administrative team provides complimentary insurance verification and can give you a clear picture of your expected costs before treatment begins.

Who is a good candidate for TMS therapy?

TMS therapy at UCSF Department of Psychiatry is ideal for adults who have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder and have not achieved adequate relief from at least one antidepressant medication. You may also be a candidate if you experience intolerable side effects from medications. TMS is not recommended for patients with metallic implants in or near the head (excluding dental fillings), or those with a history of seizures. During your initial consultation, our clinical team will review your complete medical and psychiatric history to determine if TMS is appropriate for you.

675 18th St
San Francisco, CA 94107

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Hours of Operation

Monday: ['8AM-5PM']

Tuesday: ['8AM-5PM']

Wednesday: ['8AM-5PM']

Thursday: ['8AM-5PM']

Friday: ['8AM-5PM']

Saturday: ['Closed']

Sunday: ['Closed']

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. TMS therapy should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor before starting any new treatment. Read full disclaimer.