UCLA Health TMS Clinic

“I began TMS treatment at UCLA hoping it would help with my persistent anxiety, fatigue, and emotional overwhelm. While the staff were respectful, my overall experience raised serious concerns. From the beginning, I made it clear that I was seeking treatment primarily for anxiety. Despite this, I was placed on a left-sided TMS protocol, which is known to be more activating and typically used for depression. Within the first two weeks, I started experiencing significant side effects: • Increased anxiety • Trouble sleeping • Racing heart and overstimulation I continued to share my concerns, but the protocol wasn’t changed until I was already feeling severely run down. By Week 2, I was so exhausted that I could no longer maintain even light workouts—something that had always been a grounding part of my routine. I felt physically weak, wired yet depleted, and had trouble recovering from even normal daily tasks. During this period, my labs showed that my TSH had risen significantly, suggesting that the overstimulation may have disrupted my thyroid function. I had never experienced such a drastic hormonal shift prior to TMS. If you have a sensitive system, anxiety-dominant symptoms, or any underlying endocrine vulnerabilities (like thyroid or adrenal issues), I urge you to proceed with caution. What Needs Improvement: • Initial protocol felt one-size-fits-all, not based on my individual needs • Reports of fatigue and overstimulation weren’t acted on early enough • Significant side effects—like TSH elevation and inability to exercise—were not acknowledged or addressed at the time If you’re navigating anxiety, fatigue, or hormonal imbalance, I encourage you to advocate for a personalized approach. TMS is not always gentle—and in my case, it disrupted more than it helped.”

“TMS dramatically changed my life for the better. Exceeded my expectations. The office is convenient, quiet, and clean. Everyone who works here is friendly and helpful - I have not had a negative experience with anyone from scheduling to reception to the doctors in charge.”

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