What to expect during an EXOMIND rTMS session.
Knowing what happens before, during and after treatment can make the process easier to understand. EXOMIND rTMS is delivered while you are awake, in an outpatient setting, with the treatment plan guided by your clinical goals and safety profile.
Book a ConsultationBefore treatment begins
A proper rTMS pathway starts with screening and clinical formulation, not simply booking a device session.
The clinician should review the reason for treatment, current symptoms, diagnosis, previous treatments, medication history, relevant medical conditions, seizure history, implanted metallic or electronic devices and other safety considerations.
Your session, step by step
01 · Check-in
Your provider reviews how you are feeling, any changes in medications or health, and whether there are new concerns that affect treatment that day.
02 · Positioning
The applicator is positioned near the scalp according to the selected treatment target and protocol.
03 · Stimulation
You may hear clicking and feel tapping or pulsing sensations. The experience varies according to stimulation intensity, target and individual sensitivity.
04 · Return to routine
Because routine anesthesia or sedation is not required, most patients can return to their usual daily activities after treatment unless otherwise advised.
What does rTMS feel like?
Most patients are aware of a repetitive tapping or pulsing sensation on the scalp during stimulation. Some people adapt quickly, while others notice temporary tenderness or discomfort during early sessions. The provider can discuss positioning and comfort while maintaining the intended treatment parameters.
Common short-term effects can include headache, scalp discomfort or temporary fatigue. More serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the reason appropriate screening is required.
How long does a session take?
Session length depends on the protocol. Some EXOMIND materials describe sessions in the approximate 20–30 minute range, but actual treatment time may vary according to the stimulation protocol, target and clinical plan.
The total time at the clinic may also include check-in, positioning, symptom review and documentation.
How often are sessions scheduled?
rTMS is typically delivered as a course of repeated sessions rather than a one-time treatment. Frequency depends on the diagnosis, protocol and treatment plan. Your clinician should explain the expected schedule before treatment begins.
Early phase
Sessions may be scheduled more frequently when the goal is to build a therapeutic response.
Progress review
Symptoms and functioning should be reviewed periodically to determine whether treatment is producing meaningful change.
Follow-up planning
Later decisions may include completing the course, modifying the plan or discussing maintenance depending on response and recurrence risk.
How is progress monitored?
Good rTMS treatment should be linked to specific outcomes. For depression this can include mood severity, motivation, sleep, social engagement and work functioning. For other indications, the outcome measures should match the actual treatment target.
Standardized rating scales can be useful, but they should be interpreted alongside day-to-day functioning and the patient’s broader clinical picture.
Can rTMS be combined with other treatments?
Yes, depending on the clinical situation. rTMS may be delivered alongside psychotherapy, medication prescribed by another provider, behavioural interventions or other supports.
At Calgary Mind & Wellness Clinic, patients may also be referred for psychological assessment, qEEG brain mapping or neurofeedback when those services answer a different clinical question.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need anesthesia?
No routine anesthesia is required. Patients remain awake during treatment.
Can I drive afterward?
Most people can return to normal activities after treatment because rTMS does not routinely involve sedation. Individual advice may vary.
Is treatment painful?
Most patients describe rTMS as tolerable, though temporary scalp discomfort or headache can occur.
What should I tell the clinician before a session?
Report important medication changes, new medical issues, changes in sleep, substance use, neurological symptoms or anything else that could affect safety or treatment response.
How many sessions will I need?
The number and frequency depend on the diagnosis, protocol and individual response.
What if I miss sessions?
Discuss missed sessions with your provider. Consistency can matter because rTMS is generally delivered as a repeated treatment course.
How do I know whether it is working?
Progress should be judged using symptom measures and real-world functional change, not only how you feel on a single day.
Ready to discuss EXOMIND?
Start with a consultation focused on clinical suitability, safety, goals and expected outcomes.
Book a ConsultationExplore the main See the complete EXOMIND rTMS Calgary overview service page for treatment overview, candidacy and booking information.
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