Frequently Asked Questions About MeRT Treatment

MeRT® stands for Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy. This is an advanced use of rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation), combined with comprehensive testing using a qEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram) and EKG (electrocardiogram). MeRT is non-invasive, drug-free, gentle, and can achieve long-lasting results.

MeRT uses a proprietary brainwave analysis to identify the exact areas of the brain that are not functioning or connecting optimally. We then personalize TMS treatment to the individual. Utilizing gentle magnetic waves to stimulate targeted areas exactly, MeRT can improve brain connectivity and function.

We can treat a variety of neurological conditions with MeRT, including:

• Autism
• Depression
• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Traumatic Brain Injury/Concussions
• Mental Performance and Focus
• Dementia
• Long Haul COVID
• Stroke Recovery
• Sleep Conditions

The MeRT process is much more evolved than standard TMS treatments since it is not a “one size fits all” approach. Standard TMS treatment focuses on one brain area at a specific frequency. MeRT is highly individualized as to both frequency and location. This scientific approach is unique to each person.

Our approach is based on powerful third-party research published in the most prestigious scientific journals. Read some. of the peer-reviewed and published research on our Science page.

The four steps of MeRT treatment are:

• Testing and Evaluation: We perform a qEEG and an EKG to map your brain. Once we complete testing, our scientists and physicians evaluate the results to determine the exact function of the brain.
• Analysis: We carefully analyze the test results using a scientific and patented approach. Based on this analysis, we develop a treatment plan customized to your specific condition.
• Treatment: Once your protocols are in place, you come to therapy five days a week, in two-week intervals. You simply sit in a comfortable chair while a highly-trained neuro-technician places a magnetic coil on your head. This device produces a low-frequency magnetic field to induce mild electrical signals in the targeted areas of the brain.
• Progress Evaluation: We monitor your progress throughout your daily treatments to confirm how you feel and track improvements. After every two weeks of treatment, we perform another qEEG and EKG to review your progress and make any needed modifications.

Time spent in the chair is typically 30 minutes. The magnetic stimulation occurs for 6-8 seconds every minute.

We recommend six to eight weeks of treatment to achieve optimal success and durability from MeRT. Since each brain is unique, the protocol will differ for each patient based on your condition and specific qEEG/EKG data.

It’s important to note that results are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on the individual user and are not guaranteed.

 Patients have experienced many benefits, including:

• Improved sleep
• Increased relaxation
• Better concentration and focus
• Improved memory and mental clarity
• Decreased pain
• Better mood
• Improved ability to cope with stress
• Increased attention span
• More motivation
• Fewer cravings (such as drugs or alcohol)
• Improved emotional stability
• More clarity of thought
• Increased ability to adapt to change
• Improved self-confidence and self-esteem

Based on current data on thousands of patients, side effects are few. The most commonly reported side effect is a mild tension headache at the stimulation site. This may last for 1-2 hours and responds well to over-the-counter pain relievers.

Other potential side effects are hyperactivity, increased agitation, or euphoria. Brain stimulation also has a risk of seizures, but the risk is minimal with MeRT therapy.

Jeralyn Brossfield, MD, is our Medical Director. Dr. Brossfield is a Functional Medicine Specialist with over 26 years of experience in the medical field.

Her areas of expertise include healing the gut, balancing hormones, and optimizing brain function.

Our highly trained team provides personalized, whole-person care to support each person’s maximal health so that they may lead an extraordinary life.

Read more about Dr. Brossfield. and our team here.

The comprehensive testing and analysis will determine if you are a candidate for treatment. When you come in for your clinical evaluation, you will review your results with your clinician and together decide if you may benefit.

Absolute contraindications for cortical MeRT treatment:

Pacemaker
Defibrillator
Vagal nerve stimulator
VP shunt/magnetic intracranial shunts
Deep brain stimulator
Epidural cortical stimulator
Steel shunts/stents
Cranial metal fragments (i.e., shrapnel, excluding titanium)
Cochlear implant
Aneurysm clips, coils, pipelines flow diversion
Pregnant or breastfeeding
Primary brain cancer/metastatic legions in the brain (unless palliative care)
Magnetic dental implants
Implanted cardioverter defibrillators (ICD)
Ocular implants

Relative contraindications:

These require closer protocol attention and may or may not disqualify someone from receiving cortical MeRT treatment, depending on the doctor’s discretion and the person’s condition.

History of seizure or seizure disorder
Titanium shunts/stents
Spinal cord stimulator
Hearing aids
Ferrous cortical implants
Magnetic ink tattoo
Bipolar Disorder Type I/II
Baha implant

Yes, you can continue regular activities during the treatment period. However, you must be able to stay in Rancho Mirage or the surrounding area for each two-week treatment period.

Every individual’s response to treatment is different. After the first two-week treatment period, we take another qEEG and compare it to the initial qEEG to see if you are responding. You should start to experience changes in how you feel during this time.

We highly advise a total of six weeks of treatment for optimal and long-lasting results. 

Treatment results can last a lifetime. However, some people receive occasional follow-up treatment as needed. Each person is different, and protocols may vary. In general, the longer the length of MeRT therapy, the longer the changes remain.  

Please note that results and improvements are based on active and strict observation of our regimens. Results may vary based on the individual users and are not guaranteed.

Yes, MeRT can often be used along with other therapies and can help those therapies work more effectively. As the brain starts to function better, you are more able to get results from those therapies. This can vary from patient to patient, so you and your clinician will determine the best course of action.