A Drug-free, Non-invasive Approach to the Treatment of Depression
MeRT is completely painless. You are fully awake and no drugs or medications are used. The equipment used in the MeRT process is FDA-cleared and treatment of Major Depressive Disorder and Drug or Treatment Resistant Depression with rTMS is FDA-approved.
Depression, also called Clinical Depression, Major Depressive Disorder, or Treatment-Resistant Depression, can have a range of symptoms and degrees of severity for different people.
Extensive Research Studies have shown its effectiveness in treating Depression. Many of these are listed below.
How MeRT Offers a Personalized Approach to Treating Depression and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT) is an advanced form of neuromodulation that builds upon the foundation of rTMS (Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation). It has shown great success in treating individuals with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or clinical depression, especially those who have not responded well to medication or have experienced unwanted side effects from pharmaceutical treatments.
One of the key strengths of MeRT lies in its ability to uncover and address neurological imbalances linked to depression. EEG studies of patients with clinical depression often reveal disrupted brainwave patterns—particularly an imbalance between the brain’s left and right hemispheres, known as asymmetry. MeRT identifies these irregularities and gently stimulates specific areas to help restore healthier, more synchronized brainwave activity.
According to the Mayo Clinic, more than three million people are diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder each year, with many more facing the broader challenges of clinical depression. Current research supports that depression is associated with functional changes in the brain, particularly in neural pathways that regulate mood and cognition.
What sets MeRT apart is its highly individualized approach. Each patient undergoes a detailed quantitative EEG and EKG to assess brainwave activity and pinpoint areas of dysfunction. This data-driven analysis allows us to create a treatment plan tailored specifically to the patient’s unique neurological profile—providing a customized, non-invasive alternative to traditional therapies.
By addressing the underlying brainwave imbalances, MeRT offers a powerful new path for those seeking lasting relief from depression.
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New Patient Coordinator
Or fill in the form at the bottom of the page for more information.
For some medications can help, but some don’t respond as well, or can’t handle the side effects, or just don’t like having to take them. We offer an entirely different approach to treating Depression. It’s noninvasive, drug-free, and lasting. There is hope.
MeRT For Depression
About Depression
Symptoms can vary from person to person based on severity and can range from mild to severe. Depression can be debilitating and affect quality of life and even the ability to function normally. It can be brought on acutely by a specific situation such as the death of a loved one or physical or emotional trauma, but it can also have unknown causes and be chronic. Symptoms can include:
- Loss of interest in activities and relationships
- Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Insomnia, or sleeping too much
- Emotional outbursts, even over insignificant matters
- Chronic mental and/or physical exhaustion
- Changes in appetite
- Increased anxiety
- Agitation or restlessness
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Low self-esteem
- Short-term memory loss
- Inability to think straight
- Fixating or ruminating on failures or past events
- Chronic feelings of unhappiness
- Feeling “numb” or isolated
- Thoughts or attempts of suicide
Depression can be a serious illness. In fact, suicide is the tenth leading cause of death in the U.S. and has been on the rise for teens and adults. Up to 7.4% of teens between grades 9-12 reported that they have attempted suicide at least once in the last twelve months!
MeRT for depression
What is MeRT?
MeRT stands for Magnetic eResonance Therapy. The first step is a qEEG (quantitative EEG, basically a brain scan) to identify dysregulation occurring in the brain. The results will show the brain’s brainwave pattern and function. This detailed analysis allows Dr. Miller to determine the exact neural-synchronization protocol that will be used for each patient with the objective of encouraging improved communication within the brain which can lead to significant clinical improvements. *
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is an FDA-approved method of treating Major Depressive Disorder. TMS modulates the brain’s activity by using magnetic fields which pass through the scalp from an electromagnetic coil.
The MeRT treatment that we use to treat patients utilizes TMS, however it is a greatly improved process since the treatment is individualized based on each patient’s condition and based on the qEEG results. Frequency, location, and power used is customized for each individual.
MeRT is a more evolved version of TMS since its protocol combines technologies of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG), and Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) which allows for treatment protocol based on each person’s unique brain pattern.
MeRT for Depression is usually 4-6 weeks long. Since it is a type of therapy, appointments are every day, Monday through Friday, and treatment sessions normally last approximately 30-minutes. Usually the patient will begin to notice improvements in the way they feel during the first week. After going through treatment, there is usually not a need for any follow up treatment for Depression.
For a more detailed explanation of the MeRT process, go to our What is MeRT page.
Contact our New Patient Coordinator
for a
No Obligation Consultation
Or fill in the form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book an initial consultation.
Many Studies show rTMS is Effective for Depression Treatment
MeRT consists of rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) that is tailored based on each individual’s brain scan in the treatment of depression. Many studies have shown the effectiveness of rTMS in reducing depression symptoms, with many more ongoing. Here are some of the excerpts from just come of these studies:
TMS Should Be Considered as First-Line Treatment For Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder, in Psychiatric News, October 2022.
The article’s author, Richard A. Bermudes, reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS, and wrote this:
“As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered, in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”
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.”
Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) after two antidepressant treatment failures July 2023.
“Several meta-analyses proved the efficacy of rTMS treatment in MDD, which is comparable to pharmacotherapy, and may have even better tolerability. Our results strengthened that rTMS is associated with clinically relevant antidepressant effect in TRD as well, and may be a beneficial tool in the add-on treatment of patients with TRD. Furthermore, rTMS adjunctive treatment to antidepressants was found to be specifically effective in achieving full remission.”
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of quality of life outcome measures in clinical practice, July 2013.
This study found: “Conclusion: These data confirm that TMS is effective in the acute treatment of MDD in routine clinical practice settings. This symptom benefit is accompanied by statistically and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported QOL [quality of life] and functional status outcomes.”
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of acute treatment outcomes in clinical practice, Carpenter et al, 2012.
This study found as its conclusion: “These data indicate that TMS is an effective treatment for those unable to benefit from initial antidepressant medication.”
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Resistant Depression: A Scoping Review. June 2022.
“Overall, 16 out of the 17 studies suggested that rTMS treatment was effective, safe and tolerated in TRD. For patients with TRD, rTMS appears to provide significant benefits through the reduction of depressive symptoms…”
The association between sample and treatment characteristics and the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression. Oct 2022.
“Data from nearly 3000 patients from 65 randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. rTMS was confirmed as efficacious in treating depression when looking at symptom reduction, response and remission.”
Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: the evidence thus far, August 2019.
“rTMS is rapidly gaining popularity as a treatment modality for depression. There is growing evidence to support its use in patients with depression as a monotherapy or as adjunct with pharmacotherapy. Additionally, rTMS has been found to be safe and effective in pregnant patients and elderly patients…”
Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression, May 2019.
“The clinical efficacy of TMS as an antidepressant has been well established. TMS is an innovative and promising treatment modality for patients with TRD [treatment-resistent depression].”
Experimental depression treatment is nearly 80% effective in controlled study, October 28, 2021.
“In a double-blind controlled study, high doses of magnetic brain stimulation, given on an accelerated timeline and individually targeted, caused remission in 79% of trial participants with severe depression.
“A new type of magnetic brain stimulation brought rapid remission to almost 80% of participants with severe depression in a study conducted at the Stanford University School of Medicine.
An extensive review of Research Studies by Psychiatric News says TMS should be the First-line Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder
Psychiatric News featured an article providing evidence that TMS (a key component of MeRT treatment) should be considered as first-line treatment for moderate-to-severe Major Depressive Disorder.
Richard A. Bermudes, MD, wrote the article where he reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS. Per Dr. Bermudez:
As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”
Read the entire article on the Psychiatric News website.
Medical Director, Board-Certified Neurologist Dr. Miller
Dr. Spencer O. Miller is the owner and Medical Director of the Brain Treatment Center Fort Worth as well as the Brain Treatment Centers in Dallas and Plano. He is a board-certified neurologist, who has been in practice for 15 years.
Dr. Miller specializes in MeRT® (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) treatment of traumatic brain injury, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia, autism, and multiple other neurological conditions.
He is also affiliated with Baylor University Medical Center, where he specializes in stroke, headache medicine, traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder, and seizure.
Hear what Sean had to say after MeRT Depression Treatment
Hear it from others who have experienced MeRT…
“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.
“For me, depression was the constant feeling of, ‘I want to quit’ and retreat to my home, except I already would be home. MeRT helped me shed this feeling in less than two weeks. I couldn’t believe I had spent so many years feeling this way!”
MeRT Patient
“Everything changed when I started treatment. Within two weeks, I was sleeping better. I was off all 12 of my meds that I was on when I started treatment, and I was starting to enjoy life again.
“After the first month, I was socializing with people again, I was able to work out for the first time in years, and I started to help my wife with the bills and our budget. A conservative estimate is that I have had a 60 – 70% reduction of the symptoms and have a whole new lease on life.
“I can focus, feel good about myself, feel confident, and laugh again. Most importantly, I can feel the love for and from my family again. I have never met a group of people who truly are solely focused on helping people feel human again. Spend a day here, and you will see a miracle.”
MeRT Patient
“I just finished six weeks of their specialized form of TMS treatment, and it is life-changing. If your depression or anxiety has been resistant to medications, therapy, or other forms of treatment, I highly recommend the Brain Treatment Center.”
Mary Ann E.
“I felt like I was alone even though I was surrounded by love and care. It was just a cloud that would linger over my life every now and again. BTC helped me understand what was going on in my head, and after a month of treatment, I was grateful to be DEPRESSION FREE and MEDICATION FREE for the first time in my life.”
MeRT Patient
Patient“For anyone suffering from depression, anxiety, and other symptoms, I highly recommend trying MeRT. My adult son, who has suffered from both problems his entire life and has been on medication, realized a positive change after the first visit. We saw dramatic improvement after each visit. This technology is truly a magic bullet.”
Harold H.
ExecutiveContact our New Patient Coordinator
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No Obligation Consultation
Or fill in the form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book an initial consultation.
If you think you might be interested in exploring MeRT, there are many steps in determining if MeRT is the Right Treatment for You.
We understand that considering a treatment that you don’t know that much about can be daunting and you may feel quite uncertain about whether this is right for you. So the first easy step is to start with a simple phone consultation with our New Patient Coordinator. Here you can discuss your symptoms and history, ask all the questions you want and have her explain the protocols, fees and details of Treatment.
If after this you are interested taking the next step in seeing if MeRT treatment is right for you, we will initially schedule two appointments, both of which are about 45 minutes in length. At the first appointment, our neuro-technician will perform a EEG and an EKG. Both are simple, painless and non-invasive tests to see exactly what is happening in your brain. At the second appointment, a few days later when your test results are in and have been analyzed, you will have a one on one consultation with the doctor. Here you will discuss your test results, ask any additional questions that you may have, and together determine if you (or your child, if this is about your child) are a candidate for treatment.
If you are uncertain whether MeRT is the right treatment for you, the testing and consultation will allow both you and the doctor to decide if you may benefit from Magnetic eResonance Therapy.
If you and the doctor decide to move forward with MeRT, the next step is what we call the Assessment Period, where we will perform a initial period of treatment, followed by a new EEG to see how you are responding to MeRT.
During this assessment, we are looking for any clinical changes and confirm that you are having a positive response to the treatment. You (or your child) will likely notice improvements starting to take place. At the end of the assessment period, we will perform another qEEG/EKG to confirm that changes are also showing in the brain. This is assessed based on the new EEG results as compared to the initial one done before treatment started, as well as symptom improvements.
Contact our New Patient Coordinator for More Information about MeRT
We’re Here to Help – No Pressure, Just Support
Our dedicated New Patient Coordinator is available Monday through Friday to answer any questions you may have—no pressure, no obligation. Whether you’re curious about how MeRT works, want details on the treatment process, or have questions about pricing or insurance, she’s here to provide clear, compassionate guidance.
If you decide you’d like to explore MeRT further, she can assist in scheduling your next steps. This includes a non-invasive brain scan (qEEG) followed by a consultation a few days later.
After your qEEG is completed, Dr. Spencer O. Miller will thoroughly review your results alongside your symptoms to gain a detailed understanding of your brain activity. During your consultation, we’ll walk you through the findings and explain what they may mean for your neurological health.
Hope Begins with Information
We encourage you to reach out and learn more. Gathering information is the first step toward making an informed decision about whether MeRT may be a helpful option for you or your loved one. With a strong track record of success in treating a range of brain-based conditions, we’ve seen many lives change for the better.
At this stage, we’ll help determine whether MeRT is a good fit—and from there, the decision to proceed is entirely yours.
