For 13 years, Stephanie D. has served her community as a law enforcement officer, balancing the demands of a high-stress career and raising five children. But behind her dedication to others was a private battle with depression and anxiety that left her feeling drained and disconnected.
Despite years of trying talk therapy, EMDR and medications, she struggled to find relief. The side effects of medication, particularly after postpartum depression, were a burden of their own. Stephanie desperately wanted to feel better and get off the medications but wasn’t sure where to turn.
A Promising Treatment Option Through TMS
When Stephanie first heard about transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), it felt like a promising option. “It seemed less invasive than medication, and I wanted to explore every possibility,” she says. Yet the idea of magnetic waves targeting her brain felt overwhelming. “I kept thinking, ‘What is this doing to my brain?'” she recalls.
Still, the compassionate team at Family Care Center eased her fears, explaining the process in detail and creating an environment where she felt no pressure to continue if it wasn’t the right fit.
Stephanie’s Progress Through TMS Sessions
Stephanie vividly remembers her first day of treatment. “I was in such a vulnerable place—not only admitting that I needed help but being okay with something as extreme as this,” she shares. Surrounded by a supportive TMS team and with her husband by her side, she broke down in tears when asked how she felt. “It was such an emotional moment, but the staff was phenomenal. They made me feel safe when I needed it most.”
As the sessions progressed, Stephanie started noticing subtle but significant changes. One morning, she woke up and simply got out of bed—something that once felt like an impossible mental battle. “I didn’t hit snooze or think about how many more minutes I could sleep before making my kids late. I just got up, and it was incredible,” she says.
She began to feel motivated at work, rediscovering the fulfillment she’d lost. “I’m in public service—I serve my community. For the first time in a year, I felt I could give it my all again.”
“I didn’t hit snooze or think about how many more minutes I could sleep before making my kids late. I just got up, and it was incredible.”
Stephanie D., Family Care Center TMS patient
The Human Connection Behind TMS Success
Stephanie credits much of her positive experience to her TMS technician, Carrigan, whose support went beyond clinical care. “Carrigan was a gift,” Stephanie shares. “She showed up for me every single day, knew when to give me space and made me feel seen and supported.” Carrigan’s ability to balance professionalism with genuine empathy created an environment where Stephanie could be vulnerable and focus on her healing journey.
Carrigan’s presence made a lasting impact, whether it was a reassuring word on a difficult day or simply respecting the moments when Stephanie needed quiet. “Her compassion and attentiveness turned tough days into manageable ones and good days into great ones,” Stephanie recalls. This connection helped Stephanie feel empowered to continue treatment, even when doubts or fear crept in.
The bond Stephanie formed with Carrigan and her TMS team highlights the importance of trust and understanding in the success of TMS therapy. It wasn’t just the technology that made a difference—it was the unwavering human support that carried her through every step of the process. “I’ll always be grateful for how Carrigan treated me—with kindness, patience, and belief in my ability to heal.”
A Life Reclaimed: Stephanie’s Post-TMS Transformation
Now that Stephanie has completed her TMS journey, her life has changed in ways she once thought impossible. She’s off medication, engaged with her children and thriving at work.
“The biggest impact has been with my kids,” she says. “It doesn’t feel like a chore anymore. I have the energy to run around with my toddlers and enjoy every moment of motherhood. Watching my kids play soccer or do stunts doesn’t fill me with panic—it fills me with joy.”
Stephanie offers advice for anyone considering TMS but feeling hesitant: “It’s a journey, and it requires commitment, but take it one step at a time. The beauty of TMS is that you can stop at any time if it doesn’t feel right. That gave me the peace and control I needed to choose to continue. And now, I’m so grateful I did.”
Explore More Patient Stories
To learn more about how Family Care Center has helped others on their mental health journeys, we invite you to explore additional patient stories. These narratives showcase the diverse experiences of individuals who have navigated their challenges with the help of our comprehensive services. From therapy and medication management to TMS treatment, our patients share how they found hope, healing and connection.
- How TMS Helped a Veteran Out of the Cold
- How TMS Helped Lacey Overcome Treatment-Resistant Depression
- Larry’s Journey of Healing Through IOP
- And more!
Your Journey Starts Here
At Family Care Center, we are committed to providing personalized care tailored to your unique needs. If you’re curious about how our services can support your mental health journey, we encourage you to reach out. Whether you’re considering therapy, psychiatric services, or TMS, our compassionate team is here to guide you every step of the way.
