TMS for Teens: FDA Clears Groundbreaking Depression Treatment for Adolescents Ages 15–21

Apogee Behavioral Medicine | April 15, 2025

The FDA has officially cleared Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adolescents ages 15–21, marking a major milestone in youth mental health care. At Apogee Behavioral Medicine, we are proud to offer this life-changing, non-invasive therapy to teens and young adults who are struggling with depression, providing hope, relief, and renewed strength at one of the most vulnerable times in life.

This clearance applies specifically to the Magstim systems, the most advanced platforms for delivering TMS therapy with precision and safety. These systems are now FDA-approved for adolescent patients, expanding access to personalized, drug-free depression treatment options that are both effective and well-tolerated.

What Is TMS Therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. Unlike medication, which affects the entire body, TMS targets specific regions of the brain with little to no side effects. Treatment sessions are typically short, do not require anesthesia, and are performed in-office.

Now cleared for younger patients, TMS gives adolescents a safe alternative to depression when antidepressants and therapy alone aren’t enough, or when side effects from medications are too disruptive. With decades of research behind it and growing accessibility, TMS is quickly becoming a preferred option for long-term depression management.

Why This Matters for Teens

Depression can severely impact academic performance, social relationships, family life, and overall development during adolescence. Traditional treatments like talk therapy and medications are often helpful, but they don’t work for everyone. TMS adds a much-needed option to the toolkit, offering:

Rapid symptom improvement in as little as a few weeks
Drug-free treatment with minimal side effects
Non-invasive sessions—no sedation or recovery time required
Lasting impact on mood regulation and brain function

Most importantly, TMS empowers teens to regain control over their mental health, often when it feels out of reach.

Now Available at Our Greensboro, NC Clinic

Apogee Behavioral Medicine is one of the few practices in North Carolina currently offering TMS to adolescents and young adults. With FDA-cleared Magstim systems available at our location in Greensboro, NC, we’re ready to meet the rising need for advanced youth mental health services in our community. Whether your teen has tried multiple antidepressants without success or is looking for an alternative to medication, our expert clinicians can guide you through a personalized TMS treatment plan.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If your child is between the ages of 15–21 and experiencing Major Depressive Disorder, we invite you to explore whether TMS is the right next step. At Apogee Behavioral Medicine, we’re committed to delivering innovative, evidence-based care with compassion and clarity.