Personalized brain zaps plus therapy shows promise for depression

NCT ID NCT03289923

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using MRI scans to guide brain stimulation (TMS) and combining it with talk therapy could help people with major depression. Thirty-two adults with current depression received either real or fake TMS along with cognitive therapy over 6 weeks. The goal was to see if this personalized approach improves mood and brain activity.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and cognitive therapy
What this could lead to: If this approach works, it could point toward a more personalized and effective treatment for depression by targeting the right brain area.
What could go wrong: This was a small, early-phase study (32 people) with no clear results yet. The benefits may not be better than standard treatments, and TMS can cause scalp discomfort or headache.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.