The FDA has officially approved Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for adolescents aged 15 and older—marking a significant step forward in the treatment of teen depression. While insurance coverage for this age group is still limited, some insurances may cover TMS for teens aged 15–17. At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we’re here to guide families through this new treatment option and answer any questions.
A New Chapter in Adolescent Mental Health Care
Each year, more than 5 million adolescents in the U.S. experience a major depressive episode. The mental health crisis among teens has deepened in recent years, with factors like the lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, social media pressures, and academic stress contributing to rising rates of depression and anxiety. For many teens, traditional treatments like antidepressant medications and talk therapy haven’t provided the relief they need.
Thankfully, there’s new hope. The FDA has expanded its approval of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to include adolescents aged 15 and older. This approval opens up access to a non-invasive, drug-free treatment for teens battling treatment-resistant depression.
What Is TMS and How Does It Work?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. A small magnetic coil is placed near the scalp, delivering painless pulses to activate underactive regions of the brain associated with depression.
TMS therapy is:
- Non-invasive
- Drug-free
- Well-tolerated
- Performed on an outpatient basis
- Free from anesthesia or sedation
Each session typically lasts 20–30 minutes, five days a week, over the course of six to eight weeks. Most teens can return to school or other activities immediately after treatment, making it an excellent option for busy adolescents.
Why This Approval Matters
Before this FDA approval, TMS was only available to adults aged 18 and older. The FDA’s decision to extend this approval to adolescents aged 15–17 offers a promising new option for families struggling to find effective treatments for their teen’s depression.
This is particularly important for teens who:
- Have not responded to antidepressants
- Experience side effects from medication
- Are seeking an alternative or complementary treatment
By offering a non-invasive, safe, and effective alternative, TMS provides a chance for teens to regain their mental well-being when other options haven’t worked.
What About Insurance Coverage?
At the moment, insurance coverage for TMS therapy for adolescents aged 15–17 remains limited.
Cigna is currently the first major insurer to offer coverage for TMS treatment for teens aged 15–17 who meet certain criteria.
For most families, TMS is still a self-pay treatment for this age group. However, some insurers are beginning to offer coverage for adolescents, and we expect this trend to continue.
Want to learn more about coverage options and payment plans? Give us a call at (248) 885-8887, and our team will guide you through the process.
Is TMS Right for Your Teen?
At Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, we know that every teen’s mental health journey is unique. Our experienced team is here to help you explore whether TMS is the right fit for your child.
During your appointment, we’ll take the time to:
- Explain how TMS works
- Review your teen’s mental health history
- Discuss insurance eligibility and costs
- Answer all your questions to help you make an informed decision
Teen TMS Therapy at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry
We’re proud to offer TMS therapy for adolescents and adults throughout Michigan, including Ann Arbor, Troy, Lansing, and surrounding areas. We’re dedicated to offering evidence-based, compassionate care that makes a real difference in the lives of our patients.
Navigating teen depression can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. TMS might be the breakthrough your teen needs to feel better and start thriving in life again.
Call us at (248) 885-8887 to schedule a consultation or ask about TMS coverage and costs.
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Written by the care team at Michigan Advanced Psychiatry, dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment for patients of all ages.