BrainsWay DTMS:
FDA-Approved Breakthrough Treatment Offered at FLI
When traditional treatments such as antidepressant medication and outpatient therapy for major depressive disorder are not working, it is often referred to as “Treatment Resistant Depression.”
The FDA has approved Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for the treatment of depression in patients who have failed to respond to antidepressant medications in their current episode of depression.
TMS is different from electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). It utilizes magnetic pulses to excite areas in the central portion of the brain that are not functioning appropriately. TMS therapy increases the number of neurochemicals in areas of the brain that are commonly found in individuals without clinical depression.
The treatment takes place over several weeks, with sessions lasting about 20 to 30 minutes. TMS is well tolerated, and individuals can drive themselves to and from appointments.
FLI has partnered with BrainsWay Ltd., a leader in TMS, due to its patented technology that allows for deeper stimulation to areas of the brain most associated with depressive disorders.
BrainsWay DTMS
BrainsWay Deep TMS, or DTMS (deep transcranial magnetic stimulation), is used to treat patients aged 18-80 who have major depression and are resistant to or have failed with the use of antidepressant medication.
Depression is one of the most acute, widespread illnesses of the 21st century, affecting nearly 15 million American adults annually. One out of five people will be diagnosed in their lifetime.
Video Credit: BrainsWay
Dr. Ahsan has more than 30 years of experience in psychiatry. He has provided psychiatric services in hospitals, community mental health settings, private practice, and correctional facilities. Dr. Ahsan is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional providing comprehensive psychiatric services to individuals across the lifespan. With a strong commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Ahsan specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma-related conditions, and substance use disorders.
Dr. Ahsan earned his medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan. He completed residency training in psychiatry at Lincoln Hospital and the Child and Adolescent Fellowship at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital, both in New York. He established psychiatric services at Lee County Community Hospital in Virginia. He has participated in clinical research and has presented on topics including aggression management, anxiety disorders, psychiatric care in primary care settings, panic disorder, and mental illness within the legal system. Dr. Ahsan remains is engaged in ongoing professional development to stay current with advances in mental health care. He is a member of NAMI and Rotary International and participates in local community events.
Dr. Ahsan integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic approach, considering each patient’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. He emphasizes collaboration, working closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that align with their goals
and lifestyle. He is known for creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel heard, respected, and empowered. He believes that effective mental health treatment begins with empathy, trust, and a personalized approach to healing.
Laura Perkins, BSN
Laura has 12 years of dedicated service at Family Living Institute, bringing extensive clinical, administrative, and patient care experience to every aspect of her role. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Western Connecticut State University. Throughout her decades long healthcare career, Laura has gained valuable experience in home health care, nursing homes, and hospital settings. She is committed to providing compassionate care to individuals seeking treatment for mental health conditions.
For the past six years, Laura has specialized in administering Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy. She is certified in TMS through BrainsWay and has helped numerous patients navigate their treatment journey with skill, empathy, and personalized support. She prioritizes ensuring that patients feel informed and comfortable throughout the treatment process. Laura is passionate about helping individuals access innovative mental health treatments and supporting them on their path toward recovery and improved quality of life.