Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive treatment for certain psychiatric conditions with best evidence for mood disorders. During rTMS, a specialized device delivers rapidly changing magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain. These pulses are believed to help reset brain circuits that affect mood and cognition. rTMS is off-label and is offered on compassionate grounds for individuals who have not responded to standard therapies. rTMS is used to treat neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s disease) and mental illnesses (e.g. major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder).
Who We Help
This program supports those 18 and older who:
- Are experiencing depressive symptoms in moderate range
- Have not improved with several evidence-based psychoactive medications, counselling or other treatments
What to Expect
This outpatient program provides:
Personalized care plan:
Developed collaboratively by an interprofessional team.
Most people require daily treatments, 5 times per week for several weeks.
A psychiatrist will determine the number of treatments you require based on your symptoms.
Key Benefits
Specialized care:
Access to a multidisciplinary team providing coordinated, person-centered care.
Psychiatric follow-up and monitoring through the course of treatment
How to Access the Service
For Patients and Care Partners:
Speak with your healthcare provider about a referral to our program.
For Referring Partners
Patients can be referred using the South Eastern Ontario Addictions & Mental Health Service Access Form.
Eligibility criteria
- Be 16 years or older with a diagnosed mental health condition
- Symptoms have not improved with other treatments
For questions about referrals or to confirm eligibility, contact our Central Intake team: 613-544-4900 ext. 52040.
Appointment Information
What to Expect
- Appointments take place in an outpatient clinic at Providence Care Hospital. Report to Registration on level 1.
- After registering, proceed to the Clinics waiting area, located to the right of the main lobby welcome desk. A staff member will take you to the clinic.
Treatments take place Monday to Friday. Each treatment lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes. The number of treatments varies. Your doctor will determine the number of treatments you require based on your symptoms.
Cancelling an Appointment
The Interventional Psychiatry Clinic (IVP) is committed to providing timely, compassionate care. If you cannot come to your appointment, please call us as soon as possible. You can reach us Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 613-544-4900 ext. 53228.
Letting us know early helps us offer the appointment to someone else on our waitlist.
Cancellation and no-show guidelines
Initial Appointments (Consults and First Treatments)
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours’ notice, we will offer a new appointment as availability allows.
- If you cancel late or do not attend, you will return to the waitlist.
- If we do not hear from you within 1 week of a missed appointment, we will close your file. A new referral is required to return.
- If you cancel two appointments in a row, we will close your file and you will need a new referral. You will be added to the bottom of the waitlist.
Treatment Appointments
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours notice, we will reschedule your appointment as availability allows.
- One or more missed or cancelled treatment appointments may be rescheduled at the prescribing physician’s discretion and as availability allows.
Follow-Up Appointments
- If you cancel with at least 48 hours’ notice, we will offer a new appointment as availability allows.
- After two missed or cancelled appointments in a row, we will close your file. A new referral is required to return.
Important Notes:
- If you miss an appointment, it is your responsibility to call 613-544-4900 ext. 53228 to request a new one.
- We appreciate your understanding. Your commitment helps us support as many individuals as possible in their mental health journey.
FAQs
How many treatments do I need?
The number of treatments varies. Your doctor will determine the number of treatments you require based on your symptoms.
Am I eligible to receive rTMS?
People who have had a seizure, stroke or head injury or who have certain metal implants (e.g. surgical clips, cardiac pacemakers) may not be eligible.
What are the benefits?
Rapidly changing magnetic pulses causes the neurons in the brain to change patterns. It is believed that this change in brain activity is what helps to alleviate symptoms of illness. rTMS can ease symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD and PTSD. It works by changing how certain brain circuits control mood, thoughts and behaviour. Not all patients respond to treatment the same; some recover quickly while others may not respond to treatment at all.
What are the side effects?
- Pain and headaches
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Twitches in the facial muscles during treatment
- Changes in cognition
- Temporary hearing loss (very rare)
- In rare cases, seizures
What happens during treatment?
What happens after my treatment?
You can continue your daily activities and taking your medications as prescribed. Treatments do not have an immediate effect. Do not be worried if you don’t feel better after the first few treatments. Talk to your doctor about any progress.
Contact Information
Providence Care Hospital
752 King St W, Kingston, ON K7L 4X3
613-544-4900
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Program Secretary
613-544-4900, ext. 53217
Program Manager
613-544-4900, ext. 53218
Regional Director
613-544-4900, ext. 34101
Vice President, Patient Care, Long-Term Care and Chief Nursing Executive
613-544-4900, ext. 53391
