The Neuralia TMS Melbourne Experience: By the Numbers

Mental health treatment is often described in abstract terms—feelings improved, symptoms reduced, quality of life enhanced. But behind these qualitative outcomes lie quantifiable realities that shape the treatment experience. At Neuralia TMS Melbourne—operating as "Cortical TMS powered by Neuralia" since December 2023—these numbers tell a powerful story about this innovative approach to mental health treatment.

Let's explore Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy through the lens of the numbers that define the Neuralia TMS Melbourne experience.

1985: The Birth of TMS Technology

The year TMS was first developed represents the beginning of a treatment approach that would eventually change mental health care. Dr. Anthony Barker and his colleagues at the University of Sheffield introduced transcranial magnetic stimulation as a non-invasive way to stimulate the brain. This groundbreaking technique used electromagnetic coils to generate magnetic fields capable of influencing neural activity without surgery, seizures, or anesthesia.

From this 1985 innovation emerged decades of research, refinement, and clinical validation that would eventually bring TMS therapy to Melbourne in the form of Neuralia TMS. Today's treatment bears the hallmarks of this long development history—scientific rigor, established protocols, and continuous improvement based on clinical outcomes.

For Melburnians considering TMS therapy, this 35+ year history provides important context: the treatment isn't experimental or untested, but rather the product of decades of scientific advancement. The magnetic stimulation you receive at Neuralia TMS Melbourne in 2025 represents the culmination of research dating back to this pivotal year.

2008: FDA Approval Milestone

The year the U.S. Food and Drug Administration first approved TMS for depression treatment marked a significant validation of the therapy's effectiveness and safety. This regulatory milestone followed rigorous clinical trials demonstrating that TMS could provide meaningful relief for patients with depression, particularly those who hadn't responded adequately to antidepressant medications.

While Australian regulatory frameworks differ from American ones, this 2008 approval represented an important international recognition of TMS as a legitimate, evidence-based treatment rather than an alternative or experimental approach. It established TMS as part of the mainstream mental health treatment landscape and set the stage for its expanded use worldwide.

For Neuralia TMS Melbourne patients, this date signifies that the treatment they're receiving has undergone thorough evaluation and met stringent criteria for both safety and efficacy. The therapy isn't a recent development but has been recognized as effective by major health authorities for over a decade and a half.

November 2021: Medicare Recognition in Australia

This date marks when TMS therapy was officially listed under Medicare in Australia specifically for Treatment Resistant Depression. This pivotal decision transformed TMS from a treatment accessible primarily to those with significant financial resources to one available to a much broader population of Australians struggling with persistent depression.

The Medicare listing reflected the Australian government's recognition of TMS as an evidence-based, clinically valid treatment option worthy of public funding support. This validation came after rigorous evaluation of safety data, effectiveness research, and cost-benefit analyses.

For patients at Neuralia TMS Melbourne, this November 2021 milestone translates directly to financial accessibility. Eligible patients with treatment-resistant depression can now receive treatment with minimal out-of-pocket expenses, removing a significant barrier to accessing this innovative therapy.

December 12, 2023: Neuralia TMS Arrives in Melbourne

This date marks when Neuralia TMS Melbourne became active as a business, according to Australian Business Number (ABN) records. Operating under the name "Cortical TMS powered by Neuralia," the Melbourne clinic represents an expansion of the Neuralia TMS network from its established presence in Western Australia.

For Melburnians, this recent date highlights that Neuralia TMS Melbourne is one of the city's newest specialized mental health treatment facilities. Its arrival comes at a critical time when mental health services face unprecedented demand, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic which intensified existing mental health challenges while creating new ones.

The establishment of Neuralia TMS Melbourne provides Victorians with local access to specialized TMS expertise without traveling interstate. As a recent addition to Melbourne's mental health landscape, the clinic brings fresh approaches while building on the established protocols and experience of the broader Neuralia network.

3-5: Sessions Per Week

This range represents the typical treatment frequency at Neuralia TMS Melbourne. Most patients attend sessions 3-5 times per week during the acute treatment phase, with the specific schedule determined by their TMS psychiatrist based on their condition and response.

This frequency isn't arbitrary—it reflects the neurobiological mechanisms underlying TMS effectiveness. The therapy works by promoting neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to form new neural connections and reorganize existing ones. This process requires consistent, repeated stimulation delivered at appropriate intervals to create lasting changes in brain function.

For patients, this 3-5 sessions per week schedule means:

• A significant time commitment during the treatment course

• Regular engagement with the treatment process

• Structured appointments that become part of weekly routines

• Gradual accumulation of therapeutic effects as sessions progress

While this frequency requires dedication to the treatment process, it allows for regular assessment and adjustment of the treatment approach based on emerging response patterns.

30: Minutes Per Standard TMS Session

The typical duration of a standard TMS session at Neuralia Melbourne. This half-hour timeframe encompasses the active treatment period during which the TMS device delivers magnetic pulses to targeted brain regions.

This 30-minute duration balances several important factors:

• Sufficient stimulation time to promote therapeutic effects

• Practical integration into patients' daily schedules

• Patient comfort and tolerability

• Optimal use of clinical resources

For patients, this 30-minute timeframe means TMS sessions can often be incorporated into daily routines—scheduled before work, during lunch breaks, or after work hours. Unlike treatments requiring lengthy appointments or recovery periods, the compact session duration allows patients to maintain their normal activities around treatment times.

First-time patients should plan for slightly longer appointments, particularly for the initial mapping session which typically takes about 60 minutes to ensure precise targeting and calibration.

35: Total Sessions in a Standard TMS Course

The typical number of sessions in a standard TMS course for Medicare-covered treatment at Neuralia Melbourne. This number wasn't determined arbitrarily—it reflects clinical research showing that most patients who will respond to TMS therapy show significant improvement within this treatment duration.

These 35 sessions are typically distributed over 4-8 weeks, with the exact timeline depending on the weekly frequency. This extended treatment course allows for:

• Gradual development of therapeutic effects

• Sufficient time for neuroplastic changes to establish

• Regular assessment and adjustment of treatment parameters

• Progressive accumulation of benefits that tend to continue even after treatment completion

For patients, understanding this 35-session standard helps set appropriate expectations about the treatment timeline. Unlike some interventions that promise immediate results, TMS effects typically build gradually throughout the course, often continuing to develop even after the final session as the brain consolidates new patterns of activity.

4-8: Weeks of Treatment

The typical duration of a complete TMS treatment course at Neuralia Melbourne. This timeframe varies based on session frequency (3-5 sessions per week) and individual response patterns.

This extended timeline reflects the neurobiological reality that sustainable changes in brain function develop gradually rather than instantly. The 4-8 week course allows for:

• Progressive accumulation of therapeutic effects

• Monitoring of response patterns and side effects

• Adjustment of treatment parameters if needed

• Development of new neural pathways and activity patterns

• Integration of improvements into daily functioning

For patients, this weeks-long commitment represents an investment in potential long-term benefit rather than a quick fix. While requiring patience and persistence, this extended treatment timeline aligns with the fundamental mechanisms of neuroplasticity that underlie TMS effectiveness.

0: Dollars Out-of-Pocket for Medicare-Eligible Patients

Perhaps the most significant number for many Australians considering TMS therapy—the amount that Medicare-eligible patients with treatment-resistant depression typically pay out-of-pocket for standard sessions at Neuralia TMS Melbourne.

This zero-dollar figure represents a transformative change in TMS accessibility following the November 2021 Medicare listing. For eligible patients, Neuralia TMS Melbourne's fee structure includes:

• Initial Consultation: $85.00 (fully covered by Medicare rebate; $0 out-of-pocket)

• TMS Mapping Session: $173.50 (fully covered by Medicare rebate; $0 out-of-pocket)

• Standard TMS Session: $148.90 (fully covered by Medicare rebate; $0 out-of-pocket)

• Follow-up Review with TMS Doctor: $85.00 (fully covered by Medicare rebate; $0 out-of-pocket)

For patients who don't qualify for Medicare coverage or require services beyond standard treatment, some costs may apply:

• Extended TMS Session: $180.00 (Medicare rebate $148.90; $31.10 out-of-pocket)

• Cancellation Fee (less than 24 hours notice): $50.00 (not covered by Medicare)

• Non-Medicare covered sessions: $180.00

This transparent pricing structure removes financial barriers for many patients who might benefit from TMS therapy, making advanced mental health treatment accessible to a broader population of Melburnians.

2: Previous Antidepressant Trials for Medicare Eligibility

The minimum number of adequate antidepressant medication trials a patient must have attempted without satisfactory improvement to qualify for Medicare-covered TMS therapy. This criterion defines "treatment-resistant depression" for Medicare purposes and helps identify patients most likely to benefit from TMS as an alternative approach.

This two-medication threshold reflects clinical research showing that patients who haven't responded to multiple medication trials often have different underlying neurobiological patterns that may respond better to direct brain stimulation than to further medication attempts.

For patients considering TMS at Neuralia Melbourne, this number has practical significance:

• It helps determine Medicare coverage eligibility

• It establishes a framework for discussing previous treatment history

• It guides referral documentation requirements

Your GP or psychiatrist will need to document these previous treatment attempts in your referral to Neuralia TMS Melbourne, specifying medications tried, dosages, durations, and reasons for discontinuation (lack of efficacy or intolerable side effects).

10,000: Approximate Number of Magnetic Pulses Per Session

The estimated number of magnetic pulses delivered during a standard TMS session at Neuralia Melbourne. This figure varies based on the specific protocol and parameters prescribed, but represents the substantial stimulation provided during each treatment.

These pulses are delivered in precise patterns, with specific frequencies, intensities, and intervals determined by established protocols and individual calibration. Each pulse momentarily activates neurons in the targeted brain region, with the cumulative effect of thousands of pulses gradually promoting changes in neural activity patterns.

Understanding this number helps patients conceptualize what's happening during treatment—not a single stimulus but thousands of precisely calibrated pulses working together to encourage new patterns of brain activity. This repetitive stimulation is key to promoting the neuroplastic changes that underlie TMS effectiveness.

3: Brain Centimeters Targeted

The approximate depth of effective stimulation below the skull during TMS treatment. The magnetic fields generated by the TMS coil can influence neural activity to this depth, allowing targeted stimulation of cortical brain regions without affecting deeper structures.

This 3-centimeter reach is significant because it enables TMS to target superficial brain regions involved in depression and other conditions—particularly the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a key area for mood regulation—without systemic effects throughout the brain or body.

This targeted approach contrasts with medications that affect chemical signaling throughout the entire brain and body, often causing side effects in systems unrelated to the condition being treated. TMS's ability to focus stimulation on specific brain regions contributes to its favorable side effect profile compared to many medications.

120: Tesla Field Strength (Approximate)

The approximate strength of the magnetic field generated by the TMS device during active stimulation, measured in percentage of Tesla units. This figure varies based on individual calibration and specific protocols, but represents the substantial magnetic force used to influence neural activity.

For comparison, this magnetic field strength is similar to that used in certain MRI procedures—strong enough to create meaningful biological effects but carefully calibrated to remain within established safety parameters. The field strength is precisely controlled based on each patient's individual motor threshold determined during the mapping procedure.

This number illustrates that TMS uses significant but controlled magnetic force to achieve its therapeutic effects—strong enough to depolarize neurons and influence brain activity patterns, but carefully regulated to ensure safety and comfort.

0: Anesthesia Required

The amount of anesthesia, sedation, or pain medication typically needed for TMS therapy at Neuralia Melbourne. Unlike more invasive procedures such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS is performed while patients remain fully awake and alert, requiring no medications to manage procedural discomfort.

This zero-anesthesia approach means:

• No fasting before treatment

• No recovery period after sessions

• Ability to drive to/from appointments

• No cognitive fog or medication side effects

• Immediate return to normal activities

For many patients, this represents a significant advantage over treatments requiring sedation or hospital admission. The ability to integrate TMS sessions into daily routines without disruption makes the treatment more accessible for working professionals, students, parents, and others with ongoing responsibilities.

2-3: Weeks Before Initial Improvements

The timeframe when many patients first notice subtle improvements during their TMS treatment course at Neuralia Melbourne. While individual response patterns vary considerably, early signs of benefit often emerge around this time, typically involving improvements in sleep, energy, or concentration before more substantial mood elevation becomes apparent.

This 2-3 week timeline reflects the progressive nature of TMS effects, which typically develop gradually as repeated stimulation encourages new patterns of brain activity. Initial changes are often subtle and may be noticed by family members or close friends before the patient recognizes them.

Understanding this timeline helps set appropriate expectations—TMS typically doesn't produce immediate dramatic improvements, but rather initiates a progressive process of neuroplastic change that builds throughout the treatment course and often continues developing even after completion.

1 in 2: Approximate Response Rate

The estimated proportion of patients with treatment-resistant depression who experience clinically meaningful improvement with TMS therapy. While individual results can never be guaranteed, research consistently shows that approximately 50-60% of patients with treatment-resistant depression respond positively to a standard course of TMS treatment.

This response rate is particularly significant considering that these patients have, by definition, not responded adequately to multiple medication trials. For individuals who have experienced repeated treatment disappointments, this 1-in-2 chance represents meaningful hope for improvement through a different treatment mechanism.

Response rates may vary for conditions other than depression, and individual factors such as severity, duration, comorbidities, and specific symptom patterns influence likelihood of benefit. During your consultation at Neuralia TMS Melbourne, the TMS psychiatrist can discuss your specific situation and the potential benefits based on your clinical profile.

102/149-155: Neuralia TMS Melbourne's Address

The specific location of Neuralia TMS Melbourne: Suite 102, 149-155 Pascoe Vale Road, Moonee Ponds VIC 3039. This address places the clinic in a convenient location accessible to patients throughout the Melbourne metropolitan area.

The Moonee Ponds location offers:

• Proximity to public transportation options

• Accessibility from major roadways

• A professional medical setting

• Privacy and discretion for patients

For patients committing to a course of treatment involving multiple weekly sessions over several weeks, this convenient location minimizes travel burden and helps make the treatment process more sustainable.

To contact Neuralia TMS Melbourne or schedule a consultation (with a referral):

• Phone: 03 9122 5246

• Email: info@corticaltms.com.au

• Website: https://www.neuraliatms.com.au/locations/melbourne/

5: Conditions Treated at Neuralia TMS Melbourne

The number of primary conditions for which Neuralia TMS Melbourne offers specialized TMS protocols:

1. Depression: The clinic's core focus is treating depression, particularly treatment-resistant cases that haven't responded adequately to medication or psychotherapy. TMS targets underactive regions of the brain associated with mood regulation, helping alleviate depressive symptoms without the systemic side effects commonly experienced with antidepressant medications.
   
   

2. Anxiety Disorders: Neuralia provides TMS protocols for various anxiety disorders, using precisely targeted magnetic stimulation to regulate brain activity in regions associated with anxiety responses.
   
   

3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Specialized TMS approaches address the neurological aspects of trauma responses through non-invasive brain stimulation, potentially reducing flashbacks, hypervigilance, and emotional reactivity.
   
   

4. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Patients with OCD can receive tailored TMS treatment designed to target the specific brain circuits involved in obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
   
   

5. Chronic Pain Management: Neuralia also offers TMS therapy for chronic pain conditions, providing an alternative approach by targeting brain regions involved in pain processing and perception.
   
   

While Medicare coverage currently applies specifically to treatment-resistant depression, the therapeutic mechanisms of TMS can benefit multiple conditions by modulating activity in relevant brain circuits.

3-Part TMS Journey at Neuralia Melbourne

The number of primary phases in the TMS treatment journey at Neuralia Melbourne:

1. Assessment & Preparation Phase
   
   

   • Obtaining a referral from your GP or psychiatrist

   • Initial consultation with a TMS psychiatrist

   • Comprehensive evaluation of suitability

   • Mapping procedure to identify optimal stimulation location

   • Determination of your Resting Motor Threshold (RMT)

   • Development of your personalized treatment plan

2. Active Treatment Phase
   
   

   • 3-5 sessions per week for 4-8 weeks

   • Regular monitoring of response and side effects

   • Adjustment of parameters if needed

   • Tracking progress through standardized assessments

   • Integration of improvements into daily functioning

3. Continuation & Maintenance Phase
   
   

   • Follow-up review with TMS psychiatrist

   • Assessment of response and future recommendations

   • Detailed treatment summary provided to referring doctor

   • Potential maintenance sessions if beneficial

   • Ongoing coordination with other mental health providers

This structured approach ensures comprehensive care throughout the treatment journey, from initial assessment through active treatment and into post-treatment planning.

7: Key Advantages of TMS at Neuralia Melbourne

The number of distinct advantages TMS therapy at Neuralia Melbourne offers compared to many conventional mental health treatments:

1. Non-invasive approach that doesn't require surgery, injections, or implants

2. No systemic side effects like weight gain, sexual dysfunction, or emotional blunting commonly associated with medications

3. No cognitive impairment or memory issues unlike some treatments like ECT

4. No anesthesia required, allowing patients to remain fully conscious and alert

5. Integration with daily life through outpatient sessions without recovery time

6. Medicare coverage making treatment financially accessible for eligible patients

7. Targeted mechanism addressing specific brain regions involved in particular conditions

These advantages don't guarantee effectiveness for every patient, but they represent significant benefits that make TMS an attractive option for many individuals who haven't found adequate relief through conventional approaches.

The Numbers That Matter Most: Your Personal TMS Journey

While these statistics and figures provide valuable context about TMS therapy at Neuralia Melbourne, the most important numbers will be your own—your symptom ratings before and after treatment, your functional improvements, your quality of life measurements.

For individuals considering whether TMS might be appropriate for their situation, the journey begins with a conversation with your GP or psychiatrist about this treatment option. With a referral to Neuralia TMS Melbourne, you can schedule an initial consultation to explore whether TMS therapy aligns with your specific needs and circumstances.

The quantitative framework of TMS therapy—from its historical development through its practical implementation at Neuralia Melbourne—provides structure and context for understanding this innovative treatment approach. But ultimately, the numbers that matter most are those that reflect your personal experience and potential benefit from this evidence-based intervention.

Find us:

https://medium.com/@services297/neuralia-tms-53145185064b

https://foursquare.com/v/neuralia-tms/6809dcf3b44c043a6981a628

https://www.yelp.com.au/user_details?userid=sKQtgyXB9gSt5F6zNiCP4Q

https://www.brownbook.net/business/53770228/neuralia-tms/

https://substack.com/@neuraliatms?utm_source=user-menu