Finally, an alternative treatment for depression.

South Shore Neuropsychiatric Center
1451 Broadway
Hewlett
(516) 295-4867
www.southshoretms.com

 
Until recently, primary treatments for depression were limited to medications, psychotherapy, and in the most severe cases, ECT (Electro convulsive therapy). In 2008, after 10 years of clinical investigation, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved an alternative, less invasive treatment for depression — Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Focused magnetic impulses are used to non-invasively stimulate the brain in the dorsilateral prefrontal cortex (the region of the brain associated with mood regulation). Since depression is believed to be caused by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, TMS helps restore that balance.

Using state-of-the art equipment, administered by licensed professionals trained in TMS, while under the supervision of a psychiatrist, South Shore Neuropsychiatric Center now offers TMS treatment to those suffering from major depression. The key professionals at the center are Edward Fruitman, M.D., and K.C. Levitan, LMHC.

Dr. Fruitman is a Diplomate of the America Board of Psychiatry and Neurology who has practiced psychiatry since 1995, and is a nationally recognized expert in psychopharmacology. He is a strong believer in using a holistic approach to psychiatry by incorporating psychotherapy, family therapy, medications and TMS into his practice as he deems fit.

K.C. Levitan, LMHC, is a licensed psychotherapist and trained TMS technician. While administering TMS therapy, she provides patients with psychotherapeutic support. Treating the patient as a whole — the holistic approach — she draws on her training in psychology, mental health counseling, nutrition and substance abuse. She has also developed a short-term approach to psychotherapy that she uses with TMS treatments, which does not interfere with, or disrupt any bonds between the patient and his or her long-term therapist.

TMS treatments are well-tolerated by patients, similar to an Ultrasound scan. Each session takes about 40 minutes, and about five per week for five weeks are recommended. Since no medications or sedation are involved, the patient is alert and can go back home or work right after each procedure.

“No matter what the cause of depression is — hormonal, age-related, psychological trauma, or a chemical imbalance — a part of the prefrontal cortex will malfunction,” said Dr. Fruitman. “If that area of the brain is not functioning, it is chemically deficient and the balance must be restored. 

Since the early 20th century and to this day, ECT has been used to treat depression by applying electric current to the brain and causing therapeutic seizures. TMS is not that dramatic because it is very directed and only causes tiny electric discharges; it merely stimulates or ‘tickles’ the area of the brain that causes depression. There is no memory loss and no need for inducing seizures. And, as part of our treatment, we help the patient make lifestyle changes for a healthier outcome.”

South Shore Neuropsychiatric Center offers a highly comprehensive website that gives an in-depth explanation of everything they do.  Visit the site at www.southshoretms.com.