Transforming Depression Treatment: Andrew Guido’s Journey with TMS

04|2026

For many dealing with depression, the quest for an effective treatment can feel endless. For Andrew Guido, this struggle was a long-standing part of his life. After years of trying different medications with mixed results, Guido turned to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and the experience was life-changing.

In an interview with The Educated Patient, Andrew shared his transformative experience with NeuroStar TMS, detailing how he realized it was making a difference and how it ultimately helped him rediscover the joy in daily life. Ope Akinnusi, M.D., a TMS specialist, also provided insight into how TMS works and the patients who could benefit from this non-drug therapy.

What Prompted You to Try TMS After Working with a TMS Company?

Andrew Guido: I first encountered TMS when I joined a company promoting it. Before that, I had never heard of NeuroStar or TMS. My battle with mental health had lasted more than ten years, and although I’d tried several antidepressants, the results were inconsistent. Over time, I became intrigued by TMS and decided to explore its clinical research. NeuroStar has the most extensive research database for any TMS device, and the results were compelling

What pushed me to try it was hearing firsthand from patients who had undergone TMS. Seeing how their lives were transformed was incredibly powerful. It made me realize that these were ordinary people, just like me, and they were getting their lives back. That gave me the confidence to give it a try — and I’m so glad I did.

What Was the TMS Treatment Like?

AG: TMS is described as a light tapping on the head, and that’s exactly how it felt for me. Before treatment began, the provider used a mapping process to pinpoint the right location for the magnetic coil. The tapping sensation was mild, not painful at all. Each session lasted about 20 minutes, during which I’d talk to my provider, listen to music, or even watch TV. This made the time go by quickly and kept me comfortable.

The care team was incredibly flexible with scheduling. Knowing I would need 36 sessions, I was initially intimidated, but the staff always found convenient times for me, ensuring I stayed consistent with the treatment.

When Did You Start Noticing a Change in Your Mood?

AG: The change wasn’t immediate but gradual. I noticed a shift toward the end of my treatment cycle. My providers had warned me about a slow progression, so I was prepared. Around halfway through my 36 sessions, I felt a slight increase in energy. I was able to engage in activities that had previously drained me, without feeling exhausted afterward. However, the real breakthrough came a few weeks after my final session.

One day, I was playing with my cats, and suddenly I realized how much easier and more enjoyable it was. Tasks that had once felt like chores began to bring me joy again. It was a small moment, but it made me realize how far I had come. I could feel a sense of agency and motivation returning, things that had been missing before.

The process felt like an “inchworm”—a slow, steady progress that eventually resulted in a significant improvement in my overall well-being. Now, I find myself motivated to engage in activities like journaling and exercise, which further enhance my mental health.

How Has Your Ability to Engage in Life Changed Since Treatment?

AG: Depression made even the simplest tasks feel impossible. I often went through the motions of daily life, maintaining a facade of calm, but inside, I was disengaged. After TMS, my ability to engage with life has completely shifted. It feels like I’ve been given a fresh start.

The small things I once struggled with — like playing with my cats, reading, or trying out a new recipe — are now sources of real joy. I actively seek out these activities, rather than letting the day pass by. I’ve also reconnected with the people I care about. Before, I avoided social gatherings, but now, I find myself making plans and genuinely looking forward to spending time with others. The thought of attending social events no longer fills me with dread; instead, it excites me. I’ve even moved to a new city and received a promotion at work.

TMS has empowered me to make choices that align with my values and bring fulfillment into my life. I feel confident enough to take risks and embrace new opportunities without fear of failure.

How Does NeuroStar TMS Work and How Does It Differ from Traditional Treatments?

Ope Akinnusi, M.D.: Major depression affects about 21 million adults in the U.S. annually. The first-line treatments for depression typically include counseling and antidepressant medication, but research shows that many patients are dissatisfied with their results. Side effects from medications, such as weight gain or lethargy, contribute to this dissatisfaction.

NeuroStar TMS is a non-invasive, drug-free therapy designed to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Essentially, TMS “wakes up” dormant brain regions, helping to restore their normal function.

 What Are the Side Effects of TMS Compared to Antidepressants?

OA: Unlike antidepressants, which must pass through the digestive system, NeuroStar TMS doesn’t have the typical side effects, like weight gain or fatigue. The most common side effect is mild discomfort or pain at the treatment site, which usually subsides after the first few sessions. The most serious risk is a rare chance of seizure, which occurs in less than 0.1% of patients, similar to the risk with antidepressants.

TMS treatment generally involves 36 sessions, each lasting about 19 minutes. During these sessions, the patient sits comfortably while experiencing the tapping sensation on their head. Many patients begin to see improvements in their mood within 2 to 3 weeks, including fewer depressive days and greater social engagement.

Who Is a Good Candidate for TMS Therapy?

OA: NeuroStar TMS is FDA-approved for patients aged 15 to 21 with major depressive disorder as an adjunct to other treatments. It’s also effective for adults who have not responded to medication in the current episode and for those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or anxiety alongside depression.

What Would You Say to Someone Hesitant About Trying TMS After Multiple Failed Medications?

OA: I’ve seen firsthand how effective NeuroStar TMS can be for patients who have struggled with medications and therapy. Data supports its success: More than 75% of adolescents see significant improvement in depression symptoms, while 83% of adults achieve meaningful progress, and 62% reach full remission. If medications and therapy haven’t worked, TMS offers a promising alternative.

For those who are unsure, I’d encourage them to consider the robust clinical data and real-world outcomes supporting TMS as a powerful treatment for depression.

At Colorado TMS Services, we can help you overcome your depression and get you back on your way to living a happier, more fulfilling life. Call us today for more information at (720) 671-0533 or visit our website.