Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

When OCD Takes Over

Standard treatment for OCD includes psychological therapy, specifically Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). For many people, this approach works well. But for others, OCD remains severe despite comprehensive treatment—this is known as treatment-resistant OCD.

TMS therapy offers hope for these treatment-resistant cases. Approved by NICE for OCD, TMS targets the brain circuits that drive obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, providing another avenue for relief when other approaches haven't been enough.

How TMS Treats OCD

OCD involves dysfunction in a circuit connecting the prefrontal cortex (involved in decision-making and impulse control) with deeper brain structures called the basal ganglia (involved in habits and automatic behaviours). This circuit becomes overactive in OCD, driving the repetitive thoughts and behaviours that characterise the condition.

TMS for OCD targets specific areas of this circuit, particularly the supplementary motor area and the prefrontal cortex. By modulating activity in these regions, TMS can help reduce the intensity of obsessive thoughts and the urge to perform compulsions.

Most TMS protocols for OCD use a technique called deep TMS, which reaches further into the brain than standard TMS, or specialised coil designs that target the relevant circuits more effectively.

Is TMS Right for Your OCD?

TMS for OCD is typically recommended when:

• You have tried standard treatment approaches without adequate relief
• You have engaged in Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy with a trained therapist
• OCD symptoms remain moderate to severe despite these treatments
• You don't have contraindications to TMS (metal implants, seizure history, etc.)

Even if you haven't completed these treatments, we may still be able to help. During your consultation, we'll review your history and discuss all available options.

Your OCD Treatment Programme

Our TMS programme for OCD typically involves:

Assessment Phase

• Detailed clinical assessment of your OCD symptoms
• Review of previous treatments and their effects
• Psychological evaluation to understand your specific obsessions and compulsions
• QEEG brain mapping (in some cases) to guide treatment

Treatment Phase

• a treatment period of daily TMS sessions (regular sessions)
• Each session approximately varies
• Targeting protocols specific to OCD
• Optional integration with ongoing ERP therapy

Follow-Up Phase

• Assessment of symptom reduction
• Planning for maintenance treatment if beneficial
• Coordination with your existing mental health team