Depression Research Study
Researchers at The National Institute of Mental Health are conducting a study to learn more about the effects of the combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy on brain function.
Fast Facts

Diagnosed With Depression

Resistant To Standard Treatments

Compensation Provided

Conducted in DMV Area
Study Background
Researchers at The National Institute of Mental Health are looking for adults diagnosed with depression who are resistant to standard care for this clinical study.
We want to learn more about the effects of the combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy on brain function. In addition to this combination, participants will complete research evaluations and brain scans.
This study involves daily visits for 6 weeks, followed by monthly visits for 3 months. After the initial screening, there are 3 phases:
- Phase 1: Consent and baseline assessments
- Phase 2: 6 weeks of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy, lasting approximately one hour Monday-Friday
- Phase 3: Clinical ratings held over the phone once a month for 3 months
If a participant does not respond to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy, we offer optional standard of care for up to 3 months at the end of phase 2.
Study Background
Researchers at The National Institute of Mental Health are looking for adults diagnosed with depression who are resistant to standard treatments for this clinical study.
We want to learn more about the effects of the combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy on brain function. In addition to this combination, participants will complete research evaluations and brain scans.
This study involves daily visits for 6 weeks, followed by monthly visits for 3 months. After the initial screening, there are 3 phases:
- Phase 1: Consent and baseline assessments
- Phase 2: 6 weeks of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy, lasting approximately one hour Monday-Friday
- Phase 3: Clinical ratings held over the phone once a month for 3 months
If a participant does not respond to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy, we offer optional standard of care for up to 3 months at the end of phase 2.
Additional Information
In this research study, we want to learn more about the effects that the combination of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy have on brain function for adults diagnosed with depression who are resistant to standard treatments.
You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
Ages 18-75
Diagnosed with depression
Resistant to standard treatments (treatment resistant depression)
Willing to commute to the study site in Bethesda, M-F daily for 6 weeks, or stay as an inpatient for at least 6 weeks
No epilepsy or seizures (self or family history)
No loss of consciousness for more than 5 minutes
No uncontrolled sleep apnea
No metal implants in the body, no permanent metal retainers
No prior TMS exposure
Participants can expect this study to consist of daily visits for 6 weeks, followed by monthly visits for 3 months.
After the initial screening, there are 3 phases:
- Phase 1: Consent and baseline assessments
- Phase 2: 6 weeks of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and psychotherapy, lasting approximately one hour Monday-Friday
- Phase 3: Clinical ratings held over the phone once a month for 3 months
If a participant does not respond to care, we offer optional standard of care for up to 3 months at the end of phase 2.
Participants may receive up to $1,700 in compensation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.