Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

What is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation?

tDCS is an emerging neuromodulation technique that is offered by The Monarch Clinic Australia as a treatment for depression. Research has shown that tDCS can benefit in the treatment of depression. In Australia, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has approved devices for tDCS for use in depression and other psychiatric and neurological conditions. tDCS uses a weak electric current that passes through electrodes placed on the scalp to subtly modify brain activity. Treatment is delivered by a small, portable battery-driven device.

tDCS therapy can be safely delivered at home. The treatment is painless and patients often continue with normal activities like reading or watching TV while receiving treatment. Activating your brain during treatment can help maximise the effect.

How does tDCS work?

tDCS utilises low levels of electric current to stimulate the brain. Small, battery-powered electrodes are placed on the head and secured with a cap or elastic strap (depending on the device). The electrodes are connected to a stimulator that sends weak electrical currents into the patient’s brain. tDCS does not deliver the same level of stimulation as TMS. It does not require attendance at a clinic, and patients can be trained to self-administer treatment at home under the guidance of our clinical team.

Click here to read about the differences between rTMS and tDCS. 

dTMS

rTMS