Living with treatment-resistant depression can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’ve tried several costly treatments with no success. So, if you’re considering transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as your next step, you might be wondering, “Can I afford this?”
Let’s walk through TMS therapy costs on average in 2025, and explore ways to make this potentially beneficial treatment accessible for you.
TMS therapy generally ranges between $2,000 and $11,000 for a complete treatment course, depending on your treatment protocol. These costs include:
The upfront cost may seem intimidating, but it’s important to keep in mind that like medication and therapy, TMS is an investment in your mental health. When traditional treatments haven’t worked, spending time and money on more of the same may not be the most cost-effective approach in the long term.
To help with the cost of treatment, many insurance companies now cover TMS in 2025, including for patients with documented treatment-resistant depression. We regularly work with patients who have:
Every insurance plan is different. Some might cover a big portion of the cost, while others might require you to meet a deductible or pay a percentage. We’ll work with you to determine your coverage and estimate any out-of-pocket expenses before treatment begins.
Insurance companies will require evidence that you truly need TMS before they’ll cover it. For example, you’ll generally need documentation showing you’ve tried and failed to respond to antidepressant medications. This can vary by insurer (e.g., Anthem requires two failed medication trials, while Optum requires four).
Your depression must also fall within the moderate to severe range, as measured by approved standardized assessments, like the PHQ-9 depression questionnaire. Different insurers use different depression rating scales and cutoff scores.
Other insurers may want to see that you’ve also tried therapy or medication combinations (like adding an antipsychotic to your antidepressant) without substantial relief. This process can feel overwhelming, but your provider is there to help you gather the right records and ensure your insurance claims are well-backed by the evidence your insurance company needs.
Several factors can affect what you pay for TMS therapy. These include:
When speaking to a TMS therapy provider, be sure to ask what’s included in their pricing, so that you have a full picture of what you’re investing in.
When you’re weighing the cost of TMS, it’s important to consider the long-term financial benefits:
If you’re interested in trying TMS therapy, there are some ways that can make it more affordable for you. Insurance is just one option, but there are also payment plans and HSA/FSA accounts that can help.
You’ll first want to check with your insurance company to see if they cover the procedure. Here’s what to do:
Get as much information as you can from your insurance company. If you need help working through this process, contact your TMS therapy provider.
If your insurance doesn’t cover TMS or they only cover a portion of it, your TMS provider may offer payment plans that will help you split the cost over time. This can make treatment accessible and manageable within your budget.
If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can typically use it to help pay for TMS treatment. You’ll want to check with your plan administrator for specific guidelines before starting treatment.
Now that you know what TMS costs, is it worth it? Here’s what research shows:
TMS therapy gives people with treatment-resistant conditions a chance to reclaim control of their mental health, even when other treatments haven’t worked. While it may seem like a big financial commitment up front, insurance coverage, payment options, and potential long-term financial benefits makes TMS more accessible than many people realize.
At Cura Behavioral Health, we’re committed to helping you navigate not only the clinical aspects of TMS, but the financial ones as well. We believe mental healthcare should not be limited by finances, and we’ll work with you to find a solution that fits your situation.
If you’re ready to explore innovative treatment options like TMS, contact us today to discuss your specific circumstances, insurance coverage, and financial options. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Determining if TMS therapy suits your mental health journey should involve consultation with a qualified professional. At Cura Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive assessments to help you make informed treatment decisions.
Don’t let a mental health condition hold you back any longer. Schedule a consultation with Cura Behavioral Health today. Our experienced team is ready to answer your questions and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
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Dr. Kevin Simonson, an esteemed Medical Director at Cura Behavioral Health, brings over 15 years of experience in psychiatry. A graduate from a top medical school, he specializes in the treatment of mood disorders and anxiety, employing a patient-centered approach. His dedication to evidence-based care and his commitment to advancing mental health practices have made him a respected figure in the field. Dr. Simonson’s leadership ensures the highest standard of care for the community at Cura Behavioral Health.
