A New Miraculous Approach to Treatment of PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

MeRT as an effective treatment for PTSD

A Breakthrough Treatment for PTSD is getting Incredible Results

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often misunderstood by friends and family members who haven’t ever experienced it — and can feel extremely isolating. Common symptoms include:

  • Terror
  • Uncontrolled rage
  • Negative outlook
  • Insomnia
  • Night terrors
  • Flashbacks
  • Severe anxiety/panic attacks
  • Depression
  • Inability to cope with stress
  • Inability to function normally in day-to-day life
  • Avoidance of people, events, or places that remind you of the event(s)
  • Self-destructive behavior
  • Hopelessness
  • Feeling numb
  • Easily startled
  • Mental and physical reactions to loud noises
  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Suicide attempts

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, can be a life-altering mental health problem. It is caused by experiencing or witnessing terrifying events, violence, or going through extended periods of extreme stress.

For most people who go through a traumatic event, there is a coping or grieving period that occurs afterward. And the majority usually recover with time. However, other people will have symptoms that get much worse and can last for extended periods of time.

The onset of symptoms can occur right after the traumatic incident or can appear many years later. Additionally, PTSD can be severe enough to disrupt someone’s life completely and make it difficult to function normally. Research shows that every year, about 3.6% of adults are diagnosed with PTSD, which suggests that this is a growing problem.

We offer something new to treat PTSD: MeRT®, or Magnetic e-Resonance Technology. MeRT is an emerging technology that aims to improve brain function and communication. The equipment used is FDA-cleared to treat Major Depressive Disorder and OCD and is used off-label to treat a wide variety of conditions, including PTSD.

PTSD

Call Our New Patient
Coordinator to Learn More

(949) 418-1108

The Brain Treatment Center Can Help With Your PTSD

Patients suffering from PTSD have markers that are visible in their EEG studies. New research is confirming that factors that may contribute to PTSD cause changes in brain function. These changes can include the altered activity of certain neural circuits in the brain.

Due to this, patients with PTSD have markers that can be seen in EEG studies. In many cases, PTSD will manifest as the result of a disruption in the front of the brain. Specifically, it is commonplace to see two competing alpha frequencies in the frontal lobe and slow-rolling waveforms (delta & theta waves) drowning out what should be a single strong alpha frequency. We work to identify these disruptions and strengthen healthy brainwave activity to reduce the symptoms of PTSD. 

Customized Treatment

We customize MeRT® to each patient’s needs. MeRT uses a magnetic coil to neuromodulate the brain’s electrical activity. Based on the results of the patient’s EEG and EKG we tailor the treatment protocol adjusting location, frequency, and amount of power used by the magnet.

In other words, we first perform a quantitative EEG on each patient to determine the exact frequency of the brain. These results are then reviewed and evaluated by our scientists so that the treatment is specific to each patient’s unique condition and optimized for the best possible results. The clinician will sit down with you and go over your results personally and explain your specific treatment protocol.

Because we customize treatment specifically for you, this can lead to significant clinical improvements. 

The equipment used is FDA-cleared and rTMS is FDA-approved to treat Major Depressive Disorder and OCD. It is used off-lable to treat other neurological-related conditions, including PTSD treatment.

U.S. Army Veteran Scot Spooner talks about his PTSD treatment with MeRT

“It was absolutely terrifying to not know what was wrong with me or how to fix the problem. MeRT not only identified the deteriorated state of my brainwave activity, they restored its function… I consider the healing I experienced to be nothing short of a miracle.”

Call Our New Patient
Coordinator to Learn More

(949) 418-1108

MeRT’s Effectiveness in Treating PTSD Symptoms
Independent Research Studies

MeRT for PTSD is based on years of independent, published research studies. Targeted rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) is a key element of our MeRT treatment for PTSD. Here are some of the many studies showing the effectiveness of rTMS and MeRT in PTSD treatment:

A retrospective chart review to assess the impact of alpha- guided transcranial magnetic stimulation on symptoms of PTSD and depression in active-duty special operations service members, 21 June 2024. “This data provides a demonstration of significant reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms and safety with the application of a-rTMS in active-duty special operations military personnel. Expansion of targeted neuromodulation programs could be impactful for military and civilian populations.”

How Electric Therapy Is Curing Navy SEALs of PTSD, Jan 2019. “Hundreds of vets have tried out an experimental new treatment that could change how the world addresses mental disorders.” And, “All said that they saw big improvements after a course of therapy that ran five days a week for about four weeks.”

Synchronized transcranial magnetic stimulation for posttraumatic stress disorder and comorbid major depression:  “All participants demonstrated significant reductions in PTSD and MDD symptoms (all p < .001). As expected, there were significant reductions in symptoms in both treatment groups, but active stimulation did provide greater reductions in count of PTSD moderate-to-severe symptoms.”

Magnetic Resonance Therapy Improve Clinical Phenotype and EEG Alpha Power in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, in Trauma Monthly, November 2015.   ‘This study suggests that non-invasive neuromodulation magnetic resonance therapy may lead clinical improvements as well as a trend toward normalization of EEG pathophysiology in PTSD.”

Magnetic E-Resonant Therapy Alleviates Combat Related Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, in Aerospace Medical Association, March 2017.   “Our preliminary results suggest that transcranial MeRT may provide an alternate method to help veterans suffering from PTSD.”

Individualized Electromagnetic Treatment in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: a Randomized, Double-blind, Sham-controlled Trial, Poster Accepted, Taghva, et al.  “This double-blind, randomized, controlled trial shows that transcranial magnetic therapy based on individualized frequencies derived from EEG/EKG is an effective therapy for PTSD in improving overall symptoms and quality of sleep.”

EEG_EKG Guided TMS in veterans with PTSD_Randomized double-blinded pilot study.  “Following 2 weeks of EEG-EKG guided transmagnetic stimulation, significant changes in symptom severity and EEG measures are reported for 80 retired military veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Patients had greatest comparative reductions in PCL-M subscales VII “avoid situation indicator” XII “short future indicator” and XIII “trouble falling or staying asleep indicator”. The improvement in sleep was confirmed for treated vs sham group in PSQI-A, and, may suggest correlation between sleep disorder and PTSD symptoms. Of the 37 patients who had suicidal ideation by HAM-D, 29 patients denied ideation by 4 weeks. No patient worsened in clinical PTSD symptoms after receiving therapy. “

Low-frequency, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Patients with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: a Double-blind, Sham-controlled Study, Nam et al, 2013.  “The present study showed low-frequency rTMS to be an effective and tolerable option for the treatment of PTSD. Trials using variable indices of rTMS to the right prefrontal cortex and explorations of the differences in the effects on specific symptom clusters may be promising avenues of research regarding the use of rTMS for PTSD.

MeRT for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD, Testimonials

Of all my injuries, by far the worst were the ones you could not see. I had degraded to the point of not being able to leave my home because of panic attacks and severe anxiety. I could not hide from this feeling, and no medication could numb it. My doctor told me at one point I couldn’t kill myself because I have a family with young children that I am responsible for. It was a life of despair and physical pain every day without reprieve, that is, until I was able to get treatment.For two months, I underwent neural restorative therapy with total symptom resolution. I can function again at work, and can spend much needed time with my family. I have my sense of well-being back and a clarity of thought I haven’t had in many years.”  – Army Veteran

With being diagnosed with PTSD, depression and anxiety by the Veterans Affairs, the calm and welcoming environment is important. The treatment makes me sleep longer and deeper than before treatment. My “dark feelings” fade away. I feel happy and calm. – Sean K.

The MeRT treatment has made a HUGE quality of life positive change for me. I am a vet that got blown up a couple times and suffer from TBI and PTSD. These sessions have turned my life around. My wife notices the positive changes in my depression, anxiety, irritability, and says I am fun to be around again. I can’t say enough great things about this place. Thank God it exists! – Cyrus B

My experience at the Brain Treatment Center was life changing. I struggled through years of sleeplessness, constant worry, and struggle with everyday life. Halfway through my first treatment plan, my spirit was revived. My loved ones, acquaintances, and people I met started to comment on my positivity and overall demeanor. I went from losing hope, to cherishing every moment. I would urge anyone who is struggling with head injury, depression, PTSD, or any type of psychological struggle(s) to pick up the phone and inquire. Your best days are still to come. -John G

Upon starting treatment I noticed improvement in my sleep almost immediately, which is a miracle in itself.  For more than a decade I struggled to fall and stay asleep and when I woke I never felt rested. After a month of treatment I can say that for the first time in a decade that I have gotten solid, consistent, restful, and natural sleep. About halfway through my treatment a proverbial switch was flipped. It’s difficult to explain but I guess the “noise” in my head was silenced.  My ability to handle stress and plan for the future improved. I’m also able to respond instead of react, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. I’m not on the edge 24/7.- Billy E.

Scott R, Retired Military Veteran talks about his experience with MeRT

George Nacker Explains How MeRT Helped Him Overcome His Struggles With PTSD

Read more about Tricare Coverage

We are proud to service our uniformed Service Members and their Families.

Brain Treatment Center of Newport Beach offers MeRT – a highly customized use of FDA-Approved TMS Therapy — to treat Service Members, Veterans, and their Families, who suffer from depression and other conditions combined with depression.
We are now In-Network and contracted with TRICARE Insurance to provide the highest quality mental health treatment services available.

The MeRT Process

MeRT evolved from a technology called rTMS (repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). However, MeRT is much more customized for each patient based on their brain scans and symptoms.

Studies have shown altered brain wave oscillations in patients suffering from conditions such as Major Depression Disorder (MDD), Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Anxiety, and more. The MeRT treatment protocol uses a magnetic field to balance and stimulate brain function.

Read these simple 5-Steps (click on each heading) …

  • Talk with our New Patient Coordinator
  • Initial Analysis
  • Assessment Period
  • Full Treatment Program
  • Final Testing
Talk with our New Patient Coordinator

Our New Patient Coordinator is here to help

Call us and talk with our New Patient Coordinator. She will take the time to answer any questions you have as explain things. You can discuss your specific circumstances and she can explain how it all works.

This consultation is free of charge and there are no obligations to move forward with any further steps.

If you would like to take the next steps to see if you or your loved one may benefit from MeRT, she can schedule a qEEG (brain scan) and a consultation to discuss the results with our clinician. 

Call (949) 418-1108

Initial Analysis

The qEEG and Consultation

If you are interested in seeing if MeRT treatment is right for you, we will initially schedule two appointments, both of which last about 45 minutes.

This simply involves a qEEG (quantitative EEG or brain scan), followed by a consultation with our clinician a few days later to see your results before making any decisions about treatment or proceeding with anything further.

For the initial analysis, you will come in for a comprehensive testing appointment. We will gather your new patient paperwork, and then our chief neuro technician will perform a qEEG and EKG to enable us to identify any dysfunction or communication problems in your brain.

Your second appointment usually runs about 45 minutes. During this time, you will meet with one of our clinicians, Kayleigh Prowse or Sheila Stephens, for your consultation. She will discuss your qEEG results, answer any questions you may have and discuss your applicable treatment plan. Dr. Julie Kim, our Medical Director, oversees all treatment for each patient. 

Should you decide to proceed with treatment, we will schedule your assessment period.

Assessment Period

Two Weeks of MeRT followed by new testing

The assessment period of treatment lasts two weeks. This assessment period will help you — and us — determine how you are responding to treatment. 

You will have your initial qEEG/EKG and then attend treatment sessions for two weeks. The first week will be Monday through Friday, and the second week, Monday through Thursday, nine sessions in total, followed by a repeat qEEG to determine progress and note any changes occurring in your brain. 

A typical treatment session takes about 45 minutes. You will sit in a chair while the neuro-technician administers the treatment near the scalp via a hand-held magnet. We deliver gentle magnetic impulses for six to eight seconds each minute. You may feel a slight sensation while the treatment is occurring, but it is not painful or uncomfortable.

Full Treatment Program

Continuing Treatment

Once the assessment period is complete, we will schedule the subsequent two-week treatment periods. Because each treatment period lasts for two weeks, you must be able to stay in Newport Beach or the surrounding area for each 2-week treatment period.

The comparison between the initial and second qEEG/clinical evaluation will often show if you are responding. You may also start to experience changes in the way you are feeling during this time. For some, it takes longer before changes are more obvious. We highly advise a total of six to eight weeks of treatment (which includes the assessment period) for optimal and long-lasting results. 

Since each brain is unique, the protocol will be different for each patient as it is based on specific qEEG/EKG data from your brain, and the specific condition being treated. Generally, the results of treatment can last a lifetime, though some people prefer occasional follow-up treatment as needed. But each person is different, and protocols may vary. Your provider will have regularly scheduled follow-up EEGs and meet with you to gauge your progress.

Final Testing

Review of Changes and Improvements

An additional qEEG is performed at the end of treatment to assess and take stock of the benefits and improvements that have occurred as a result of the full treatment protocol. 

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. Plus, the results of therapy can vary per individual. In general, the longer the length of MeRT therapy, the longer the changes remain.

Call Our New Patient
Coordinator to Learn More

(949) 418-1108

You don't have to decide now. Explore the possibility of MeRT as a treatment for PTSD

Consider an initial analysis to see if you might benefit from MeRT. You can come in for a comprehensive testing appointment. We will have you fill out some information about your symptoms and history, and then our Neuro-technician will perform a qEEG and EKG, which will enable us to identify any dysfunction or communication problems in your brain. This appointment usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Your second appointment is 45 minutes long. During this time, you will meet with us for your clinical evaluation. Your provider will answer any questions you may have and discuss your applicable treatment plan.

In this way you can determine whether you might benefit from treatment with MeRT.

Contact Our New Patient
Coordinator for more Information

It’s normal for patients and their families affected by brain disorders to feel uncertain about treatment options and what is best. MeRT is a treatment protocol that has helped patients restore their brain function, reclaim their lives, and get a whole new lease on life.

Our goal is to help guide you through the process so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not MeRT is the right treatment for you or your child. Our clinicians and technicians are passionate about helping you to heal.

Our New Patient Coordinator is available to answer any questions that you may have about how MeRT can help you specifically. She’ll take the time to listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease. She can also assist in getting you scheduled with the clinic should you decide to move forward with treatment.

Call Our New Patient Coordinator to Learn More

(949) 418-1108

Or fill out the Contact Form below and we will contact you. 

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Absolute Contraindications

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 lesions in brain (unless palliative care), Magnetic dental implants, Implanted cardio-verter defibrillators (ICD), Ocular implants.

Relative Contraindications

Relative contraindications 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 individual condition. These include: 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.