Your rTMS Treatment Journey
Beginning a new treatment journey can feel overwhelming. We're here to guide and support you every step of the way. Here's what to expect throughout your personalized rTMS program at The Sherpah Clinic.
Getting Started
Obtain Your Referral
To begin rTMS therapy at The Sherpah Clinic, you'll need a referral from your healthcare provider. This can be obtained from your General Practitioner (GP), a Psychiatrist, or other qualified allied health professionals. Important: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, while specialist referrals are valid for 3 months. You'll need a new referral after expiry.
Initial Screening Call
Once we receive your referral, one of our experienced TMS clinicians will reach out to you for a brief screening conversation. During this call we provide detailed information about rTMS therapy, answer any questions, discuss your medical history, and determine if any additional assessments are needed.
Pre-Consent Information Session
You'll be scheduled for a pre-consent information session with one of our senior TMS clinicians. This 15-20 minute consultation helps us prepare for your upcoming psychiatrist appointment, ensure you have all the information needed to make an informed decision, discuss your treatment timeline, and address remaining questions. Note: There is no fee for this information session.
During Treatment
Psychiatrist Consultation & Treatment Mapping
Your first in-person visit will be with one of our TMS psychiatrists. During this appointment you will review and sign consent forms, discuss your personalized plan, undergo motor threshold testing, and complete brain mapping to target the precise treatment areas. What is Motor Threshold Testing? This process determines the stimulation intensity that produces a response in your brain, ensuring treatment is calibrated specifically for you. Please Note: This appointment focuses exclusively on your rTMS plan.
Your Treatment Course
A standard initial course typically includes up to 35 treatment sessions over 7–9 weeks, 5 sessions per week (Monday–Friday), 20-minute sessions with no downtime, and ongoing monitoring by our clinical team.
Final Review & Assessment
After completing your course, you will have a comprehensive review appointment to evaluate progress, discuss your experience, create a personalized maintenance plan if needed, and provide guidance on long-term wellness strategies.
After Treatment
Maintenance Sessions
Some patients benefit from periodic maintenance sessions to sustain their treatment gains. Maintenance therapy is individualized based on your needs.
- Typically scheduled 3-6 months after completing your initial course
- Medicare patients can access up to 15 maintenance sessions (available 4 months after the initial course)
- Frequency and duration tailored to your response and lifestyle
- Some patients choose regular "top-up" sessions to maintain wellness
Your treatment team will recommend the best maintenance schedule for you based on your individual progress and needs.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Have questions or want to learn more about rTMS therapy? Our friendly team is here to help guide you through every step of the process.