Adolescent Depression

A NEW PATH FORWARD FOR TEENS WITH DEPRESSION

When your child is struggling with depression, watching them lose interest in the things they once loved can feel heartbreaking. There is hope—and you don't have to wait for medication to fail before exploring it.

At Braincare Carlsbad, in Carlsbad, Oceanside, and Encinitas, California, Oluseyi Awodele, MD, MS, and his team offer rTMS therapy, an FDA-cleared treatment for adolescents ages 15–17 with depression. rTMS can be used as a first-line option, meaning your teen may not need to try medication at all.

This non-invasive therapy uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate brain regions responsible for mood. And that can help your teen feel better, think more clearly, and reconnect with the joy they deserve.

Why Choose rTMS for Teen Depression?

• A first-line treatment option—no medication required
• FDA-cleared for adolescents 15–17
• Covered by insurance
• Safe, non-invasive, and well-tolerated
• No sedation or downtime
• Minimal side effects
• Clinically proven results in adolescents
• In real-world outcomes, 78% of teens improved, and 48% achieved full remission after TMS treatment

Is My Teen a Candidate for rTMS?

rTMS is used as an adjunctive therapy, meaning it works alongside talk therapy rather than replacing it. To be considered for treatment, your teen should already be engaged in therapy with a licensed counselor or psychologist. From there, our team will coordinate with their existing care providers to determine if rTMS is the right next step.

What Are the Signs of Adolescent Depression?

Depression in teens can look different from that in adults. Some signs your child may need support include:

• Irritability, anger, or persistent sadness
• Loss of interest in friends or activities
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Trouble focusing or declining school performance
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If your child’s mental health is impacting their daily life, it’s time to seek help. If they’re in crisis, call or text 988 for immediate support.

What Can We Expect from Treatment?

At Braincare Carlsbad, rTMS is delivered as part of a holistic care plan in coordination with your teen's existing therapist. Supportive elements may include:

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Family support and psychoeducation
• Emotionally focused or solution-focused therapy

Each plan is custom-tailored to help your teen build coping skills, self-esteem, and a renewed sense of hope.

Schedule an Evaluation

Let’s help your child feel better, now and in the future. Contact Braincare Carlsbad to schedule a consultation and learn if TMS therapy is right for your teen.

📞 Contact Us today to speak with a member of our team.