TMS Therapy and Insurance Coverage: Your Guide

Is TMS Therapy Covered by Insurance in 2025?

If you’ve been exploring non-medication treatments for depression, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) might already be on your radar. It’s FDA-approved, non-invasive, and effective—but is it covered by insurance?

You’re not alone in asking this. Many people looking for lasting mental health relief also want financial clarity before starting a new therapy. In this guide, we’ll break down what insurance typically covers, what to watch out for, and how Meah Modern Psychiatry makes the process easier.

What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?

TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain involved in mood regulation. It’s most commonly used for treatment-resistant depression—meaning you’ve tried medications or therapy with little or no success.

It’s safe, doesn’t require anesthesia, and doesn’t involve medication. Many of our clients find it life-changing, especially when combined with therapy, nutrition, and lifestyle support.

Who Typically Qualifies for Insurance Coverage?

While each insurance company is different, most follow similar criteria:

• You have a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD).
  
• You’ve tried at least two antidepressants without significant improvement.
  
• You’ve participated in talk therapy or counseling.
  
• Your psychiatrist provides documentation showing medical necessity.

Our team is experienced in helping clients gather and submit this documentation. We know the system—and we’ll walk you through it.

Which Insurance Companies Usually Cover TMS?

The good news: many major insurers now cover TMS therapy, including:

• Tricare
• Aetna
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Cigna
• UnitedHealthcare
• Kaiser
• Humana
• Medicare (with qualifications)
  

Coverage depends on your plan, deductible, and whether your provider is in-network. At Meah, we accept a range of insurance plans and can verify your coverage before you commit to treatment.

Why Getting Insurance-Approved TMS Is Easier at MEAH

You’re already dealing with enough. That’s why we’ve built a practice designed to make your mental health care experience simpler—not more stressful.

Here’s how we help:

• Licensed Psychiatrists who guide and support your entire journey.
• Everything in one place—TMS, therapy, medications, lifestyle coaching.
• Insurance accepted and explained upfront.
• Easy billing—we handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on healing
• Quick, easy scheduling for virtual and in-person consultations

You’re not just getting a treatment—you’re getting a team that cares.

Telehealth & TMS: What Colorado Patients Should Know

We offer TMS therapy from our physical location, but much of your care (initial evaluations, check-ins, medication management) can be done virtually. Colorado insurance plans often extend TMS coverage with telehealth support integrated.

Busy professionals, students, and caregivers especially appreciate how this saves time without compromising care.

When Insurance Says No: What Are Your Options?

If your plan denies TMS coverage, don’t panic—there are still paths forward:

• Appeals process with clinical documentation (we help with this).
• Flexible payment options or self-pay discounts.
• Care pathways that combine lower-cost therapy + lifestyle interventions first.
  

The key is having a provider who will advocate for you—and we do.

Can I Get Nutritional Psychiatry & TMS Covered Together?

TMS may be covered under your behavioral health benefits, while nutritional counseling or lifestyle coaching may not be. But many insurers offer flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) that can offset costs.

We’ll help you design a care plan that blends covered services with holistic approaches that align with your goals.

FAQ Spotlight: Your Questions, Answered

1. Is TMS therapy considered medically necessary by insurance?
   Yes, for many plans it is—especially when used for treatment-resistant depression and after medication/therapy have been tried.
2. How many TMS sessions does insurance typically cover?
   Most plans cover an initial course of 36 sessions. Some may also cover maintenance treatments after initial success. 
3. Do I need a referral to get TMS covered?
   Some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician to see a psychiatrist. Once you have a referral to see a psychiatrist, no additional referral is needed for TMS coverage. We’ll help you determine what’s needed to be seen at our clinic.
4. How much does TMS cost without insurance?
   It can range from $300–$500 per session, with full treatment totaling $10,000–$15,000. At Meah, we offer support for self-pay and financing options.
5. What should I ask my insurance company about TMS?
   Ask about deductibles, copays or coinsurance, documentation needed, and whether Meah is in-network.
6. Can TMS be done alongside therapy or medications?
   Yes! In fact, it’s often more effective when combined with other treatments.
7. Does Meah help with the insurance paperwork?
   Absolutely. Our team assists with benefits checks, authorizations, and follow-ups.
8. Is TMS covered for conditions other than depression?
   Yes! Most plans cover TMS for OCD in addition to treatment resistant depression. 
9. Can TMS therapy be done at home?
   Currently, TMS is only offered in-office under medical supervision.
10. How long does it take to get started with insurance-covered TMS?
    Once prior authorization is approved by your insurance company, our office can typically begin treatment within 1-2 days.