MeRT®

A Precision Approach to Brain Health through Advanced, Highly Customized TMS

Feeling stuck—foggy, flat, anxious, or just not like yourself—can be exhausting. Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT®) offers a personalized, non-invasive approach that uses your own brain data to help guide care.

We begin with qEEG brain mapping and EKG to understand how your brain is communicating, then design a tailored plan that aims to support clearer thinking, steadier mood, and better sleep.

Coverage note: MeRT is an emerging, data-guided therapy that’s considered investigational and isn’t currently FDA-cleared for specific conditions, so it’s usually paid out of pocket. For depression, our primary option is rTMS, which is often insurance-covered when criteria are met. We complete qEEG/EKG for both rTMS and MeRT so you and your clinician can choose the path that fits best.

What is MeRT?

MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) combines qEEG brain mapping, EKG, and targeted magnetic stimulation to encourage healthier communication in key brain networks. The goal is to gently nudge underactive or out-of-sync areas toward more coordinated function.

How is MeRT different from rTMS?

Both MeRT and rTMS are drug-free and non-invasive.

• rTMS delivers a standardized, FDA-cleared protocol for major depressive disorder and is often insurance-covered.
• MeRT uses your qEEG/EKG data to customize parameters and targets. It is investigational and typically self-pay.

Your clinician will explain when an insured rTMS pathway makes the most sense and when a more personalized MeRT approach may be considered.

What concerns is MeRT used for in your clinic?

Patients and families explore MeRT to support brain-based challenges where improving brainwave synchrony may help daily functioning. We set clear expectations, personalize care with qEEG/EKG, and coordinate with your existing providers when helpful.

Common reasons people consider MeRT include:

• Autism-related challenges: Families often use MeRT alongside therapies (e.g., speech/OT/behavioral) to support self-regulation, attention, sensory processing, sleep, and engagement in children, teens, and adults.
• Post-concussive symptoms/TBI: Headaches, brain fog, irritability, and sleep disruption after head injury.
• Anxiety and stress-related symptoms: Persistent worry, restlessness, and physiologic overarousal.
• Post-traumatic stress: Hyperarousal, reactivity, and sleep disturbances.
• Sleep dysregulation: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, irregular sleep patterns.
• Cognitive performance & attention: Focus, processing, and mental clarity goals.
• Depression: In select cases; for depression, we typically start with insurance-covered rTMS when criteria are met and discuss MeRT as an optional next step.

Note: MeRT is an emerging, data-guided therapy and is not FDA-cleared for autism or other specific conditions; it’s generally self-pay. We’ll walk you through options, expected costs, and whether MeRT aligns with your goals

Who might consider MeRT?

At our clinic, both rTMS and MeRT are informed by your qEEG/EKG data. The key difference is that MeRT is designed to optimize brainwave synchrony (how well rhythms coordinate across regions), using your maps to fine-tune targets and timing beyond standard rTMS settings.

You might consider MeRT if you:

• Want a synchrony-focused, personalized protocol based on your qEEG patterns
• Haven’t had the relief you hoped for with standard options (including meds, therapy, or prior rTMS)
• Are comfortable choosing an emerging, self-pay therapy and can attend two-week treatment blocks
• Prefer close, data-driven adjustments guided by repeat qEEG/EKG and symptom tracking

For depression, we typically start with insurance-covered rTMS when criteria are met, and discuss MeRT as an optional next step when a synchrony-targeted approach makes sense for your goals,

What happens during MeRT care?

1. First appointment: qEEG/EKG testing
   We perform a quantitative EEG (qEEG) to map your brainwaves and an EKG to assess heart-brain timing. These tests are the foundation for your personalized plan. (We complete qEEG/EKG for both rTMS and MeRT patients.)
2. Second appointment: results & plan
   Your clinician reviews your brain maps and discusses treatment options. If you choose MeRT, we design a protocol tailored to your data.
3. Treatment in two-week blocks
   Sessions are typically scheduled five days per week for two weeks. We then reanalyze qEEG/EKG and your symptoms. If you’re improving, we continue in two-week intervals until you and your clinician are satisfied with progress.

What does a MeRT session feel like?

You’ll sit comfortably while a small coil rests on the scalp. Most people notice a light tapping sensation and clicking sounds. Visits are outpatient—no anesthesia and no downtime—so you can return to your day.

Are there side effects or risks?

Most people tolerate MeRT well. The most common effects are temporary scalp discomfort or a mild headache, which usually settles with time. Your clinician will review rare risks and answer all your questions before you begin.

When might I notice improvements?

Everyone’s timeline is different. Some people first notice changes in sleep, energy, or mental clarity, followed by shifts in mood or anxiety over the next few weeks. We track your progress with brief questionnaires and your repeat qEEG/EKG to guide next steps.

Can I combine MeRT with psychotherapy or medications?

Yes. Many patients continue with their prescribing providers and benefit from psychotherapy during MeRT. With your permission, we’ll coordinate care to support durable, real-life gains.

How do I get started?

Call BrainCare Performance Center today, or request an appointment online, to talk with our New Patient Coordinator about whether MeRT or rTMS is the better next step for you. There’s a path forward, and we’ll walk it with you.

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