A New Chapter for Anxiety Relief
Anxiety disorders are on the rise, affecting millions of individuals and putting increasing strain on traditional mental health care. While talk therapy and antidepressants remain valuable tools, they aren’t always enough, leaving many patients searching for more effective treatment options. That’s where Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) comes in. This FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment is reshaping the future of mental health by offering real relief for people struggling with anxiety. At Sunrise Psychiatry, we’re proud to offer this innovative therapy under the expert care of our experienced TMS experts, including Dr. Sonni Elliott, MD, Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist (link here). If you’re curious about the benefits of TMS, check out our previous blog on the top 5 advantages of this treatment.
What Makes TMS Therapy Different?
An Innovative Option for Treatment-Resistant Anxiety and Depression
For individuals with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), where excessive worry and restlessness interfere with daily life, TMS therapy offers a promising path forward. By directly targeting the areas of the brain responsible for fear response and emotion regulation, TMS helps to calm overactive neural activity commonly seen in anxiety disorders. Many patients report improvements in sleep, concentration, and emotional stability after just a few weeks of treatment.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which requires anesthesia and can cause memory-related side effects, TMS is a non-invasive treatment with no sedation or cognitive disruption, making it a gentler, more convenient alternative for those seeking relief. Because it also avoids the systemic side effects often associated with antidepressants, TMS is becoming one of the most effective and accessible treatment options for chronic anxiety in modern psychiatry.
Meet Dr. Sonni Elliott and Our TMS Experts
Experienced Clinician Delivering Compassionate, Evidence-Based Care
Dr. Sonni Elliott, MD, leads TMS clinical services at Sunrise Psychiatry, bringing a deep and compassionate understanding of mental health care rooted in decades of experience. A Kansas City native, Dr. Elliott’s early curiosity about science and the human experience naturally led her to pursue a career in psychiatry. After earning her undergraduate degree at Xavier University of Louisiana, she graduated with honors in Psychiatry and Neurology from Saint Louis University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago before returning to Kansas City in 2010.
Dr. Elliott has since worked across a range of inpatient and outpatient settings, serving diverse populations with a special focus on women’s mental health. Since reestablishing her practice in Kansas City in 2020, she has become a passionate advocate for neuromodulation and TMS therapy, helping patients with treatment-resistant anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions find hope and lasting recovery. As a member of the Clinical TMS Society, Dr. Elliott remains committed to evidence-based protocols, cutting-edge research, and advancing the field of psychiatric care through personalized, patient-first treatment.
At Sunrise Psychiatry, our commitment to compassionate, high-quality care extends beyond our clinicians to every team member. Alongside Dr. Sonni Elliott’s leadership in TMS services, Julia, our Office Coordinator, is often the first friendly voice you’ll hear. She expertly guides prospective patients through the process, from exploring whether TMS is the right fit to scheduling that all-important first appointment. Once treatment begins, Olivia W, our full-time TMS Technician, ensures each session runs smoothly and offers consistent, reassuring support every step of the way. Olivia M serves as both a part-time technician and billing assistant, providing seamless coordination behind the scenes and in the treatment room. At the front desk, Val brings warmth and hospitality to our space, greeting everyone with a smile and helping create the calm, welcoming environment we’re known for. Together, our team is here to make sure you feel supported, heard, and cared for throughout your journey to better mental health.
What to Expect from a TMS Treatment Session
A Comfortable, Outpatient Experience with Lasting Impact
TMS treatment at Sunrise Psychiatry is delivered in a comfortable, outpatient setting designed to support individuals living with anxiety. Each treatment session lasts just 10 to 30 minutes, and patients can return to their daily activities immediately since no sedation or recovery time is needed. A small magnetic coil is placed gently against the scalp to deliver targeted magnetic pulses, stimulating areas of the brain involved in emotion regulation. Patients work with the same technician throughout their course of care, which helps build trust and consistency. During sessions, you are welcome to watch a show, talk with your technician, or simply enjoy some quiet time. Earplugs are provided for comfort during the procedure.
Most people tolerate TMS well, though some may experience mild side effects such as scalp sensitivity, lightheadedness, or a brief headache. These effects are usually temporary and decrease over time. As an FDA-approved therapy, TMS is considered safe for most individuals and has a much lower risk of complications than treatments like electroconvulsive therapy. Unlike ECT, TMS does not require anesthesia and does not increase the risk of epilepsy or memory problems. A typical course of treatment involves daily sessions over several weeks, with benefits developing gradually through consistent care.
Why Choose TMS at Sunrise Psychiatry?
Personalized Mental Health Treatment in Kansas City
At Sunrise Psychiatry, we take a comprehensive, patient-first approach to mental health conditions by integrating talk therapy, medication management, and TMS treatment when it is the most effective treatment option.
Our team understands that no two people experience anxiety, major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD) the same way, which is why we build personalized care plans based on each individual’s needs and goals. For those considering TMS, give us a call or email to inquire about eligibility, potential benefits, and whether your health insurance plan covers treatment.
Many insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, do cover TMS for major depressive disorder, and our staff is available to help guide you through the process. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or another persistent condition, we are here to support you in creating a long-term care plan that prioritizes your well-being and recovery.
Your Path to Lasting Relief Starts Here
If you are living with depression, anxiety, or another mental health challenge and feel like nothing has worked, we want you to know that you are not alone. There are still treatment options that can make a difference. TMS therapy is a powerful tool in modern psychiatry, especially for individuals who have not found relief through traditional methods.
At Sunrise Psychiatry, we recognize that every person seeking care is more than a diagnosis. You have a story, a life, and a desire to feel better. Our compassionate team of clinicians is here to support you from your first consultation through the creation of a customized treatment plan designed to meet your specific needs. We take the time to listen, to understand what you are going through, and to provide thoughtful guidance rooted in evidence-based healthcare.
Whether you are newly exploring treatment or have been managing symptoms for years, we encourage you to reach out to our team or take our self-assessment to see if TMS therapy may be the right fit for you. Your time, trust, and well-being matter to us, and we are committed to helping you find relief and renewed hope.