Accelerated TMS — Rapid Relief from Depression in Just One Week
For patients who have struggled with depression and haven’t found lasting relief through traditional antidepressants or conventional therapy, Accelerated TMS offers a faster, more intensive path to recovery. At TMS of Westchester, we offer the FDA-cleared SAINT Accelerated TMS protocol — delivering a full course of treatment in just five days, with life-changing results for many patients. Call (914) 241-0758 or request an appointment in Mt Kisco, NY today.
What Is Accelerated TMS?
Accelerated TMS is a breakthrough treatment approach for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) that compresses what would normally be a six-week course of TMS Therapy into a single week. Rather than one session per day over 30 days, Accelerated TMS delivers 8 to 10 treatment sessions per day for five consecutive days — allowing patients to achieve meaningful, lasting relief in a dramatically shorter timeframe.
The Accelerated TMS protocol offered at TMS of Westchester is based on the Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy™ (SAINT), an FDA-cleared accelerated TMS protocol developed by Stanford University specifically for the treatment of major depressive disorder. This protocol was FDA-approved in September 2022 for treatment-resistant depression, including patients who had previously failed conventional TMS therapy.
The Science Behind Accelerated TMS — The SAINT Trial
The landmark SAINT trial conducted by Stanford University in October 2021 produced groundbreaking results for the field of interventional psychiatry. The trial demonstrated that nearly 80% of participants with treatment-resistant depression achieved remission after undergoing the SAINT accelerated theta burst stimulation (TBS) protocol. Even more remarkably, clinical improvement was measurable in as little as 2.3 days on average — a speed of response previously unheard of in the treatment of depression.
These results prompted the FDA to grant approval to the SAINT protocol in 2022, recognizing it as an effective treatment for TRD and validating years of research into accelerated neuromodulation approaches. At TMS of Westchester, we are proud to bring this evidence-based, FDA-approved protocol to patients in Mt Kisco, NY and the greater Westchester area.
How Accelerated TMS Works
Each Accelerated TMS treatment session uses theta burst stimulation (TBS) — a highly efficient form of magnetic brain stimulation that delivers pulses in a rapid burst pattern. Each session lasts approximately 9 minutes, followed by a 50-minute rest period before the next session begins. This structured spacing allows the brain to consolidate the neuroplastic changes triggered by the stimulation, building momentum toward remission with each successive session.
During the rest periods between sessions, patients are free to relax, read, watch television, or walk around. Most patients experience little to no side effects and are able to engage in light activities throughout their treatment days. The procedure requires no sedation, anesthesia, or downtime, and patients typically drive themselves to and from our Mt Kisco office each day.
Accelerated TMS vs. Traditional TMS
Traditional TMS: One session per day, five days per week, for approximately six weeks (30 total sessions).
Accelerated TMS: 8 to 10 sessions per day for five consecutive days — the same total treatment benefit compressed into a single week, with faster onset of results.
For patients whose schedules, responsibilities, or severity of illness make a six-week daily commitment challenging, Accelerated TMS offers a compelling alternative that does not compromise on efficacy. For patients who want an even faster option, we also offer One-D TMS — our single-day protocol for treatment-resistant depression.
Is Accelerated TMS Right for You?
Accelerated TMS is an excellent option for adults with treatment-resistant depression — particularly those who have not found adequate relief from antidepressant medications, those who have completed or are ineligible for standard TMS, and those seeking faster results with minimal disruption to daily life. It is also a strong choice for patients who cannot commit to the six-week schedule of conventional TMS Therapy.
To learn whether Accelerated TMS is appropriate for your situation, contact TMS of Westchester at (914) 241-0758 or visit our New Patients page to schedule a consultation in Mt Kisco, NY.
Frequently Asked Questions — Accelerated TMS
What makes Accelerated TMS different from standard TMS Therapy?
The primary difference is the pace and schedule of treatment. Standard TMS Therapy involves one session per day over six weeks. Accelerated TMS delivers 8 to 10 sessions per day over just five days, compressing the full treatment course into a single week. Both approaches target the same brain regions, but Accelerated TMS typically produces faster results and is more convenient for busy patients.
Is Accelerated TMS FDA-approved?
Yes. The Accelerated TMS protocol offered at TMS of Westchester is based on the SAINT protocol, which received FDA approval in September 2022 for the treatment of treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in adults. This includes patients who have previously failed conventional TMS therapy.
How quickly can I expect results from Accelerated TMS?
The SAINT trial found that clinical improvement was measurable in as little as 2.3 days on average, with nearly 80% of participants achieving remission by the end of the five-day treatment course. While individual results vary, many patients at TMS of Westchester begin noticing meaningful changes within the first few days of treatment.
What are the side effects of Accelerated TMS?
Accelerated TMS has a minimal side effect profile. The most commonly reported effects are mild scalp discomfort or headache, similar to standard TMS. These typically diminish as treatment progresses. There are no systemic side effects, no cognitive impairment, and no downtime required after sessions.
How long do the results of Accelerated TMS last?
Many patients experience durable relief following Accelerated TMS, with remission persisting for months to over a year in some cases. Results vary by individual, and our team at TMS of Westchester can discuss maintenance options and ongoing care to support long-term outcomes.
Can I combine Accelerated TMS with medication or therapy?
Yes. Accelerated TMS can be used in combination with medication management, psychotherapy, and other treatments. In many cases, combining treatments enhances outcomes. Our team will work with you to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your specific needs.
Who is not a good candidate for Accelerated TMS?
Accelerated TMS is generally not appropriate for patients with certain implanted metal devices near the head (such as cochlear implants or deep brain stimulators), active seizure disorders, or other specific medical contraindications. Our team at TMS of Westchester will conduct a thorough screening during your initial consultation to ensure your safety before beginning any TMS protocol. Call (914) 241-0758 for more information.