TMS Therapy for OCD in Glendale, CA
BrainsWay Deep TMS is FDA-cleared for obsessive-compulsive disorder. At Breakthrough TMS in Glendale, we deliver it with a specialized coil and protocol designed to target the neural activity involved in compulsive loops — noninvasive, in-office, and built to fit into daily life.
When OCD Does Not Respond to Standard Treatment
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is more than intrusive thoughts. It can consume time, disrupt routines, and create constant mental pressure. If OCD has not improved enough with therapy and medication, Deep TMS may be an option — it works through a different mechanism than either, using targeted magnetic stimulation rather than talk or medication. If you are comparing approaches, this overview of what TMS is explains the differences.
What OCD Can Look Like
- Intrusive thoughts that feel impossible to shut off
- Repetitive behaviors or mental rituals to reduce anxiety
- Fear of contamination, harm, or “something bad happening”
- Checking, counting, repeating, or seeking reassurance
- Significant time lost each day and reduced quality of life
Why Deep TMS for OCD
BrainsWay Deep TMS for OCD uses a specialized coil — the H7 — and a protocol designed to target neural activity involved in compulsive loops, including areas in the medial prefrontal and cingulate networks. Treatment is non-invasive, performed in-office, and designed to fit into daily life.
What to Expect During Treatment
OCD protocols often include a brief, guided activation step before stimulation (sometimes called provocation) to engage the relevant circuitry, followed by a short treatment session. Provocation is personalized to your specific triggers, and it is designed to be tolerable — not overwhelming. Your plan is built around your symptoms, history, and tolerance.
Sessions themselves follow the same rhythm as other TMS treatment: you sit in a treatment chair, wear the helmet that positions the coil, stay awake throughout, and return to your day afterward. See the full session walkthrough here.
Are You a Candidate for TMS?
You may be a fit if you:
- Have OCD that remains disruptive despite standard treatment
- Want a non-drug option that targets brain circuitry
- Are medically appropriate after screening
Safety & Side Effects
The most common side effects are temporary scalp discomfort or headache, and comfort typically improves as your body adapts. We will review safety factors and contraindications during your visit, including screening for metal in or around the head.
Cost & Insurance
Coverage varies by plan. We will help you understand benefits and out-of-pocket expectations before starting. Contact our Glendale office and we will verify your plan.
OCD FAQs
Is Deep TMS for OCD FDA-cleared?
Yes. BrainsWay Deep TMS is FDA-cleared for OCD.
What is the H7 coil, and why does it matter for OCD?
The H7 coil is BrainsWay’s Deep TMS coil used for OCD protocols. It is designed to stimulate brain regions involved in OCD loops, including areas in the medial prefrontal and cingulate networks.
What is “provocation,” and why do you do it before treatment?
Provocation is a short, personalized exposure that brings up your specific OCD triggers before stimulation. It is used to activate the relevant brain circuitry so the protocol can target the right networks more effectively.
What does provocation look like in real life?
It can be a script, images, or a simple activity tailored to your triggers. It is brief, guided, and designed to be tolerable, not overwhelming.
Will I be awake during treatment?
Yes. You stay awake the entire time — TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation, and most patients return to normal activities right after a session.