How fMRI-Guided TMS Therapy Works

At Neurotherapeutix, we take brain health further.

Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our clinic is the only center in the United States offering fMRI-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. This revolutionary, non-invasive treatment combines computational brain mapping with advanced neuromodulation to achieve unmatched precision.

As pioneers of this patented approach, our team uses fMRI to map each patient’s unique brain activity, identify disrupted neural networks, and deliver targeted magnetic stimulation to restore healthy connectivity.

This data-driven, personalized process helps improve mood regulation, cognitive performance, and overall brain function for patients facing a wide range of neurological and psychiatric conditions.

To learn more about how fMRI-guided TMS therapy works, continue reading below.

TBI Brain Scan

What is fMRI-guided TMS therapy?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is a breakthrough, non-invasive therapy that combines the precision of brain imaging with the power of neuromodulation.

Using functional MRI (fMRI), our specialists at Neurotherapeutix map your brain’s activity to identify regions that are overactive, underactive, or disconnected.

Once these networks are defined, magnetic pulses are delivered directly to the areas that need regulation, helping restore balance, function, and communication between brain regions.

Unlike traditional TMS, which relies on standardized landmarks, fMRI-guided TMS is entirely personalized.

Every treatment is tailored to your unique brain architecture, ensuring that stimulation targets the exact neural pathways contributing to your symptoms.

How TMS sessions are performed

During treatment, a small magnetic coil is positioned on the scalp above the targeted brain region. The coil delivers gentle pulses that reawaken neural activity and strengthen communication across brain networks.

Each session lasts 20–30 minutes, is comfortable, and requires no anesthesia or downtime.

What to expect during TMS therapy

You may feel a light tapping sensation on your scalp during treatment, but discomfort is minimal. Most patients return to normal daily activities immediately after their sessions.

Over time, as new neural connections form, patients often notice improved focus, mood, and cognitive clarity, reflecting the brain’s renewed ability to function optimally.

The fMRI-guided TMS process

Our fMRI-guided TMS process combines advanced imaging, computational modeling, and infrared navigation to ensure that every stimulation pulse reaches its intended neural target.

Step 1 fMRI:

Your journey begins with a high-resolution functional MRI scan that captures thousands of images of your brain in real time. This imaging reveals your brain’s unique network of active regions and connections, identifying where communication may be disrupted.

STEP 2 ANALYSIS:

Our neuroscience team reviews the fMRI results to detect abnormal brain network patterns—areas that are underactive, overactive, or poorly synchronized. These insights form the foundation of your personalized treatment plan.

STEP 3 COMPUTATION:

Next, we use computational brain mapping to calculate the exact location, depth, and strength of magnetic stimulation required to restore balance. This step determines:
● The coil placement coordinates
● The stimulation parameters (frequency, intensity, and duration)
● The type of coil used based on focality and treatment depth

STEP 4: TMS TREATMENT DELIVERY:

Treatment is performed using the MagPro® X100 Magnetic Stimulator with Localite MRI-based Neuronavigation. Infrared tracking continuously monitors coil positioning during each session to ensure consistent accuracy, even if your head moves slightly. This real-time navigation system ensures stimulation is delivered to the same precise brain region at every session, creating stable, reproducible results.

fMRI-guided TMS process explained

In simple terms, fMRI-guided TMS allows us to see where your brain’s communication has broken down and fix it directly.

By targeting only the specific regions that need modulation, we strengthen neural connectivity and promote overall brain network harmony.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy compared to standard TMS

Standard TMS follows a one-size-fits-all approach based on general brain landmarks developed more than two decades ago.

In contrast, fMRI-guided TMS therapy identifies and treats each patient’s unique connectivity patterns.

This individualized precision leads to faster improvement, greater durability of results, and enhanced cognitive and emotional outcomes.

Our TMS protocols

Our protocols are based on years of neuroscientific research and tailored to each patient’s condition, ensuring the most effective and comfortable treatment experience possible.

TMS uses repetitive magnetic pulses (rTMS) to either excite or inhibit specific brain areas:

  • • High-frequency stimulation (>5 Hz) increases brain activity in underactive regions.
  • • Low-frequency stimulation (<5 Hz) decreases overactivity in hyperactive areas.

Treatment intensity is typically set to 100–120% of the patient’s motor threshold, ensuring optimal results with maximum comfort.

Personalized TMS treatment procedures for
neurological and psychiatric conditions

At Neurotherapeutix, our fMRI-guided TMS therapy is tailored to each patient’s unique neurological profile.

Whether we’re treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, cognitive impairment, or other brain-based conditions, our precision imaging allows us to deliver stimulation exactly where it’s needed to restore optimal function.

Each treatment protocol is derived from your fMRI brain map, which identifies specific neural networks responsible for symptoms such as mood instability, focus difficulties, or cognitive decline.

By modulating these targeted circuits, fMRI-guided TMS helps rebalance brain activity, strengthen communication, and support lasting neuroplasticity.

Watch how fMRI-guided TMS helps patients with autism and ADHD

See how advanced imaging and individualized stimulation help improve communication, attention, and emotional regulation in patients with autism and ADHD at Neurotherapeutix.

Precise treatments lead to longer-lasting wellness Development

At Neurotherapeutix, precision means progress.

Our infrared neuronavigation system, originally developed for neurosurgical procedures, ensures stimulation is delivered to the same exact location at every session.

This consistency retrains brain networks, leading to durable improvements in mood, cognition, and overall neurological performance.

Neurotherapy treatment process explained Development

Each TMS session builds on the one before it. Through repeated, guided stimulation, the brain strengthens and maintains healthy neural communication patterns, supporting lasting clarity, focus, and emotional balance long after treatment completion.

Neuroplasticity and brain function

fMRI-guided TMS therapy harnesses the brain’s natural ability to adapt and reorganize.

Through repeated, targeted stimulation, it promotes stronger connections between regions responsible for cognition, emotion, and motor control.

Human growth and brain development

From infancy through adulthood, the brain continuously forms new connections.

TMS strengthens or restores these pathways when they become weakened by stress, injury, or disease, helping restore functional communication and cognitive performance.

Director Marta Mareno

Connectivity in the brain

Think of the brain as a vast network of highways connecting different regions.

When communication between these “roads” slows or disconnects, performance declines. fMRI-guided TMS helps reopen those pathways, improving the flow of information across the brain.

Networks and nodes

Each brain network contains nodes—communication hubs that control how signals travel.

When these nodes misfire or weaken, symptoms emerge. TMS restores healthy signaling by retraining nodes to communicate efficiently, improving both brain function and mood regulation.

Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity is the foundation of recovery.

Research shows that repetitive TMS can significantly enhance neuroplasticity by strengthening synaptic connections and improving communication between brain regions.

In fact, a 2022 study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience found that targeted TMS increased connectivity within key cognitive and emotional networks, supporting measurable improvements in focus, mood, and resilience.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy builds on this science, enhancing both functional (communication-based) and structural (growth-based) connectivity to help your brain rewire itself for improved adaptability and long-term wellness.

Every individual is unique

Every patient’s brain is different, and so is their treatment.

Using patented computational brain mapping, Neurotherapeutix identifies the exact networks contributing to your symptoms and treats them directly.

This is what makes our clinic the nation’s pioneer and leader in fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

Ready to experience the future of brain health?

Your brain is as unique as your fingerprint, and it deserves care designed with that same level of precision.

At Neurotherapeutix, we combine advanced imaging, neuroscience, and compassionate expertise to help you achieve meaningful, lasting improvement in cognitive and emotional well-being.

Whether you’re seeking relief from depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, or another neurological condition, our fMRI-guided TMS therapy offers a safe, non-invasive path toward restored clarity, focus, and balance.

Take the next step toward measurable progress and renewed quality of life.

Request an appointment or contact our Manhattan clinic today to begin your personalized care plan.

FAQs about how TMS therapy works

Understanding a new treatment can raise questions, and we’re here to provide clarity.

Below are answers to the most common questions about how fMRI-guided TMS therapy works, what to expect during treatment, and how it supports long-term brain health.

Is TMS therapy safe for everyone?

Yes. TMS is FDA-cleared, non-invasive, and safe for most adults. Our specialists evaluate each patient carefully to ensure suitability before treatment.

How long does a typical TMS session take?

TMS sessions last 20 to 30 minutes with no downtime required. Most patients complete treatment in four to eight weeks.

How soon will I notice improvements?

Many patients notice increased energy, improved focus, and better mood within the first few weeks. Continued sessions strengthen and stabilize these gains.

Can TMS be combined with other treatments?

Yes. TMS can safely complement psychotherapy, medication, or rehabilitation programs for a more comprehensive approach to healing.

Are there side effects from TMS therapy?

Side effects are minimal and may include mild scalp sensitivity or a temporary headache that resolves quickly.

How does fMRI-guided TMS differ from standard TMS?

fMRI-guided TMS uses real-time brain imaging to target the precise neural networks causing your symptoms. Standard TMS relies on estimated landmarks. Our approach results in more accurate, efficient, and lasting outcomes.

What questions should I ask before starting TMS therapy?

Ask about your specific brain targets, expected outcomes, medication adjustments, and how progress will be tracked during your treatment.

How is treatment tailored to individual brain connectivity?

Your therapy is based entirely on your fMRI brain map. Using computational modeling and infrared navigation, our specialists deliver stimulation directly to your unique neural pathways—ensuring the most precise and effective treatment possible.

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