Proud to be the first provider of Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy® in New England
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Frequently Asked Questions

MeRT® stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy. MeRT® brain treatment combines technologies of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS, an FDA cleared therapy), Electroencephalogram (EEG), and Electrocardiogram (EKG) to deliver magnetic stimulation tailored for each individual’s unique brain pattern. MeRT® is a painless, non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical approach used to address a wide range of neurological and psychiatric conditions The patient’s EEG and EKG are analyzed to ascertain the brain’s pattern of function, detect current patterns, and determine its state of optimal neural synchronization. The resulting information is used to develop a personalized treatment protocol for each patient, aimed at restoring the brain to its optimal state that can lead to significant improvements. Our physicians use this information to develop a client-specific and targeted approach designed to encourage and restore healthy brain communication. The treatment protocol is completely tailored to each person’s brain by location, frequency, and output intensity or amount of energy delivered. This technology works by using a magnetic coil to neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. This therapy gently stimulates the specific locations in the brain which can lead to improved function. This can lead to significant clinical improvements.

Unlike standard Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, which delivers stimulation to one location at a fixed frequency for all patients, the Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT®) approach individualizes the treatment frequency, location, and output intensity based on each patient’s unique brain function. Additionally, in standard TMS, patients do not receive an EEG. The data collected for their progress is based on subjective reporting. With MeRT®, there is a potential to see improvements in a patient’s neuronal organization with objective data.

EEG stands for electroencephalogram. This is a process whereby one of our trained neuro technicians records your brain waves.  The use of the EEG allows our team to tailor the treatment to your individual brain pattern.  Treatment is personalized and unique to you.  You receive an EEG prior to your first treatment. 

 

In addition, you will receive a follow-up EEG every two weeks.  This follow-up EEG allows you to see objective results from your treatment.

An EEG takes approximately 15 minutes for adults, though possibly longer for children.

 

A quantitative EEG (qEEG) applies sophisticated mathematical and statistical analysis to these brainwaves and compares them to age and gender controls.

MeRT® therapy delivers magnetic pulses to specifically targeted areas of the brain. A typical appointment of MeRT® consists of 32-36 trains of electromagnetic stimulation to a specified location, lasting 5-8 seconds each. There is a 28-45 second rest period depending on how many treatment locations are a part of your individual protocol. Appointments usually last approximately forty-five (45) minutes.

 

The primary objective of treatment is functional recovery. There is a wide range of variability from person to person. Common benefits include improvements in quality of life:

 

• Sleep
• Concentration and focus
• Mood
• Attention span
• Sociability and interaction with others
• Motivation
• Mental clarity
• Memory
• Ability to adapt to change
• Self-confidence and self-esteem
• Emotional stability
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Pain
• Fewer cravings (e.g., drugs and alcohol)

 

 

Our current data indicates side effects are few and generally mild. The most common side effect is a mild tension headache at the site of stimulation, which can last 1-2 hours and responds well to over-the-counter analgesics.

 

Other possible side effects include hyperactivity, agitation, fatigue, or euphoria. These effects are temporary and typically pass shortly after treatment. With brain stimulation there is also a risk of seizures; however, the risk is minimal.  The risks of seizure associated with MeRT® (Approximately 1 in 100,000) are less than the stated risk of seizure associated with a Nintendo Switch (Approximately 1 in 4,000) (Click here view the Nintendo warning label.)

Our equipment is currently FDA-cleared for the treatment of Depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). For all other disorders, the use of the equipment is currently being used “off label.”

Results vary per individual based on each person’s biology and brain chemistry. It also varies depending on the conditions being treated and the age of the patient. It is not uncommon for patients to return after a year or two for a maintenance treatment. This maintenance treatment is typically for a shorter duration.

We do not bill insurance for MeRT® services. Whether you can be reimbursed for treatment depends on your condition, and insurance company and coverage. If you wish to request reimbursement,  we provide you with the appropriate paperwork to submit to your insurance company for determining coverage or reimbursement.  We take cash, check, and all major credit cards.  

Please call (401) 854-7550 for more information about pricing or to schedule an in-person consultation.

Yes, we are partnered with CareCredit (www.carecredit.com).  Please inquire if you would like additional information. 

Please do not stop taking any medications prior to treatment without express direction and supervision from your physician or psychiatrist. While some patients may feel improvement to the point of being considered in remission following treatment, it is not suggested to stop any prescriptions without seeking medical consultation first.

Typically a full course of treatment is complete in about 4-8 weeks, although this will vary from patient to patient. Factors to consider in determining the length of treatment include how quickly desired results are seen, cost, and time dedicated to treatment.

The sensation of this treatment is a rapid, light tapping on your scalp. It may feel as if your forehead muscles are clenching and releasing repeatedly. Depending on your individual treatment intensity there may be some mild discomfort, but it should not cause intense pain.

Absolutely! We understand that new locations and meeting new people can cause stress and anxiety. To help you or your child feel comfortable, we’d be happy to schedule a brief tour of our office beforehand. You’d have the opportunity to meet our technicians, as well as see the waiting area and EEG room. Our goal is always to make sure our patients feel as safe and comfortable as possible.