Referrals & Admissions
Contact Us

Outpatient Day Programs

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)

For some people, traditional treatments such as medication and psychotherapy are not enough to relieve symptoms of depression and other mental health conditions. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) offers a safe, non-invasive alternative that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, rTMS is available to both inpatients and outpatients as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Delivered in a calm, supportive environment by trained clinicians, rTMS can provide meaningful relief for individuals living with conditions that have not responded fully to other therapies.

Overview of rTMS

rTMS is a modern treatment that uses a specially designed medical device to deliver repetitive magnetic pulses to specific regions of the brain. These pulses gently activate nerve cells, helping to improve communication between brain regions involved in mood and emotional regulation.

1

Non-invasive – no surgery or anaesthesia is required.

2

Painless – most people experience only a tapping sensation on the scalp during treatment.

3

Medication-free – suitable for individuals who have not benefited from, or cannot tolerate, antidepressant medications.

4

Convenient – sessions are conducted on an outpatient basis, with patients able to return to normal activities immediately afterwards.

A typical course of treatment involves multiple sessions over several weeks. Each session lasts around 20–40 minutes, depending on the protocol recommended by the treating psychiatrist.

Conditions treated with rTMS

rTMS is most commonly used for treatment-resistant depression, where individuals have not experienced sufficient improvement with medication or psychotherapy alone. However, growing evidence supports its use in other mental health conditions. At Sunshine Clinic, rTMS may be recommended for:
Especially where multiple medications have not provided relief.
As an adjunct treatment during depressive episodes
Including generalised anxiety disorder and panic disorder, with research showing promising outcomes.
Reducing hyperarousal and intrusive symptoms when used alongside therapy.
Where rTMS has shown positive effects in reducing intrusive thoughts and compulsions.
For depression and anxiety in later life, where medication side-effects may be of concern.
rTMS is not suitable for individuals with certain medical implants (such as pacemakers) or those with a history of seizures. Every patient undergoes a thorough assessment with a psychiatrist to ensure suitability and safety.

Evidence for rTMS

rTMS is supported by an expanding body of international and Australian research demonstrating its safety and effectiveness.

The Australian and New Zealand Royal College of Psychiatrists (RANZCP) recognises rTMS as an effective treatment for depression that has not responded to at least one antidepressant. Large clinical trials show response rates of 50–60%, with around 30–40% achieving remission.
Research indicates rTMS can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms and PTSD-related distress when combined with evidence-based psychological therapies.
Clinical studies have shown improvements in symptoms for patients who have not responded to medication or therapy alone.

Safety

rTMS is well tolerated, with the most common side-effects being mild scalp discomfort or headache, which usually resolve quickly. Unlike medications, rTMS does not cause systemic side-effects such as weight gain, drowsiness, or sexual dysfunction.

In Australia, rTMS is increasingly offered in both public and private hospitals. Medicare currently provides rebates for rTMS in treatment-resistant depression, making it a more accessible option for patients.

How rTMS is delivered at Sunshine Clinic

At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, rTMS is provided under the supervision of consultant psychiatrists and trained staff. Our program includes:

  • Comprehensive assessment – ensuring rTMS is appropriate and safe for each patient.
  • Personalised treatment plans – tailored to individual needs and conditions.
  • Outpatient sessions – allowing patients to attend regularly while continuing daily routines.
  • Integration with therapy – combining rTMS with psychological therapies such as CBT, ACT, or mindfulness to maximise outcomes.
  • Monitoring and review – regular follow-up with psychiatrists to track progress and adjust treatment if necessary.

Both inpatients and outpatients can access rTMS, making it a flexible option that can be incorporated into short-term stabilisation or longer-term recovery programs.

Why rTMS is Valuable for Recovery

For patients and families who have tried multiple treatments without success, rTMS can provide new hope. Patients often report:

  • Significant improvement in mood and daily functioning.
  • Reduced reliance on medication or improved effectiveness of existing treatments.
  • Relief from distressing symptoms without the burden of side-effects.
  • Renewed confidence and energy to re-engage in work, relationships, and meaningful activities.

At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, rTMS is more than a medical procedure – it is part of a holistic, recovery-oriented approach that places patients at the centre of care. By offering advanced treatments alongside compassionate support, we help individuals move beyond treatment resistance and towards lasting wellbeing.

Comprehensive Private Mental Health Care in Melbourne’s West

Sunshine Clinic offers psychiatry consulting services, as well as inpatient and outpatient programs tailored to support recovery, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

Contact Us