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Brain Stimulation Clinic (ECT/RTMS)

Ontario Shores offers a Brain Stimulation Clinic that comprises of two services - Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) that we currently offer and a new treatment option, repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS).

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS)


rTMS (or TMS), is a non-invasive treatment option for those who have  treatment resistant depression.  It delivers a series of short magnetic pulses directed at the brain to stimulate nerve cells.  Patients are able to return to their regular activities immediately following treatment, which lasts about three to eight minutes.

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)


Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) is a safe and effective medical treatment for certain psychiatric conditions such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. The procedure is done under general anaesthesia.  Patients are assessed by the ECT treatment team in collaboration with the attending psychiatrist.  Treatment is administered by a specially trained team of psychiatrists, anesthetists and registered nurses.

Age

Ages 18 + 

Inclusion Criteria
  • Individuals struggling with depression or other mood disorders
  • ECT: individuals from adolescents to geriatrics are eligible for this treatment option and must be medically stable and cleared for treatment
  • rTMS: Referrals are accepted for individuals 18 years of age and older
Exclusion Criteria
  • rTMS is not suitable for those with a history of seizures, active suicidal/homicidal ideation, implanted neurostimulator or defribrillator, cochlear implants, or pacemakers
  • No psychiatrist involved in care. 
  • Not medically stable to undergo treatment at this facility
Service Access

For ECT referrals are accepted from any health care provider, however a psychiatrist must be involved in care, and have provided a psychiatric assessment. For an assessment for consideration for rTMS referrals are accepted from physicians or nurse practitioners. 

Individuals will participate in a consultation with a Brain Stimulation Psychiatrist to ensure this treatment plan is suitable. The individual will be required to get bloodwork done by their family physician and be cleared by anesthesia before ECT.
 

Make a Referral

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