Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions – Outpatient TMS
Please click through our frequently asked questions below.
If you have any further questions please contact us.
What is personalised TMS?
Personalised Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is unique to our clinic. Our personalised workflow includes functional MRI Brain to determine the specific location to target treatment that may predict for best clinical response.
How is this different from traditional TMS?
Traditional TMS uses a “one-size-fits-all” approach targeting, utilising scalp-based methods to determine the location for treatment. At our clinic, treatment is personalised by determining a treatment target that is specific to your brain’s function and structure.
Who do you provide treatment to?
We provide outpatient TMS for adults (aged 18+) with treatment-resistant depression, specifically Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). In general, we do not provide treatment for conditions other than MDD. Treatment provided outside of this indication is subject to HREC approved research protocols and is only considered when a patient is referred by a psychiatrist.
What is the referral process?
You will need a referral from either your GP or psychiatrist. The referral should include your diagnosis and relevant medical history.
What happens once the clinic receives my referral?
Once we receive your referral, our team will contact you to arrange an appointment with one of our psychiatrists. This comprehensive assessment will determine whether TMS is a suitable treatment option for you.
How long will treatment take?
A standard course of TMS typically involves 20–30 sessions, with most appointments requiring only 20-30 minutes of your time.
Do I need to attend every day?
Yes — treatment is usually delivered five days per week (Monday to Friday) over 4–6 weeks. Regular attendance is important to achieve the best results.
What does treatment cost?
Our clinic operates on a private fee basis for outpatients.
Medicare rebates are available for patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) who meet eligibility criteria. If Medicare rebates apply, you will be eligible for a higher rebate under the Medicare Safety Net.
We do not currently accept direct payments from private health insurers (e.g., Medibank, BUPA) for TMS, as it is not yet a covered item. However, some patients may be able to claim benefits depending on their policy — we recommend checking directly with your insurer.
With prior approval, treatment under third parties such as Work Cover and DVA may be eligible
Do you offer inpatient TMS at Avive Clinic Brisbane?
Our outpatient service is co-located within Avive Specialist Suites, and does not support inpatient TMS currently.
If you are interested in receiving inpatient treatment or TMS as an inpatient, please direct enquiries to the admissions team at Avive Clinic Brisbane.
