Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Therapy
A REAL PATIENT TMS THERAPY REVIEW & CASE STUDY
By Dr. Jack Castro of Brandywine Valley TMS in Wilmington Delaware
LEARN HOW TMS HELPED LESLEY'S REMISSION FROM DEPRESSION
Background
I first met Lesley on February 14, 2025, when she presented with a history of long-standing depression characterized by low motivation, hopelessness, and significant disturbances in sleep and appetite. She had previously tried multiple antidepressants—including Cymbalta, Effexor, Tofranil, and Wellbutrin—in combination with psychotherapy, yet continued to experience persistent and debilitating symptoms.
Lesley emphasized that her trials with medication began over a decade ago. Notably, she was only able to tolerate a single dose of Effexor and Cantrix (one pill each on separate occasions) due to severe adverse effects. This is an important detail, as it underscores that her struggle with depression has been longstanding and that her resistance to treatment was not due to recent noncompliance, but rather a history of unsuccessful efforts to find relief.
She was referred to me by her psychologist, Dr. Nancy Weinstein, with whom I’ve had the privilege of collaborating for many years.
Initiation and Course of Treatment
On February 19, 2025, we initiated a course of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) at Brandywine Valley TMS. Her motor threshold was set at 39%, and her PHQ-9 score at the start of treatment was 21, reflecting severe depression.
Remarkably, by March 12, after just 16 TMS sessions, Lesley’s PHQ-9 score had dropped to 4, indicating a dramatic and meaningful improvement in mood, motivation, and overall functioning.
Completion and Outcome
On June 6, 2025, Lesley successfully completed her full course of 36 TMS sessions. At the conclusion of treatment, her depressive symptoms had completely abated, and she reported a renewed sense of energy, hope, and emotional stability.
Her response to TMS has been nothing short of transformative, and it has been deeply rewarding to witness her progress. Lesley’s story is a powerful reminder of the potential for healing, even after years of treatment-resistant symptoms.
Gratitude and Reflection
We are honored to have supported Lesley throughout her TMS journey. With her permission, we share her story to offer encouragement to others who may be struggling and searching for an alternative, non-medication-based approach to depression.
Her outcome is a testament to the effectiveness of TMS when thoughtfully integrated into a personalized treatment plan. We thank Lesley for her openness and trust, and we celebrate her recovery.
Hear What Lesley Had To Say About Using TMS Therapy
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TMS Treatment Could Change Your Life!
Experience the Benefits of TMS Therapy Today
TMS Therapy, an FDA-approved treatment, is non-invasive and non-sedative, offering minimal to no side effects. Unlike mental health medications, which frequently bring about undesirable side effects, TMS therapy provides an immediate sense of optimal well-being following treatment sessions. Patients often experience noticeable positive changes as early as the third week, and sometimes even sooner. On this page, we've shared one real-world patient experience.
TMS has gained a strong reputation as an outstanding alternative for individuals who do not experience positive results from traditional mental health medications.
Local to Wilmington Delaware? Contact Brandywine Valley TMS today!
