On February 26 Wave Neuroscience presented to the Ohio Senate Armed Services, Veterans Affairs and Public Safety Committee on the progress of EEG-guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (eTMS) and its impact on veterans, first responders, and individuals with substance use disorders. eTMS operates on the same core principles as Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT), using EEG data to customize TMS based on each individual's unique brainwave patterns. The difference in terminology reflects variations in labeling rather than fundamental distinctions in methodology.
Advancements in Mental Health Treatment
eTMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses brainwave analysis to personalize transcranial magnetic stimulation. The FDA has designated eTMS as a breakthrough technology, fast-tracking its approval process based on its effectiveness compared to existing treatments.
For PTSD symptom improvement using the PCL-5 scale (the VA's preferred metric), the current studies show:
Antidepressant medication management: 11-13% improvement
Talk therapy: 23% improvement
Standard TMS: 31% improvement
eTMS: 63% improvement (More than 4 times better than the current standard of care)
Ohio's Implementation of eTMS
Ohio has been an early adopter of eTMS for veterans and first responders. Over 800 individuals have received treatment, with reported improvements in sleep as well as a reduction in depressive and PTSD symptoms.
A real-time data dashboard allows the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OMAS) to track outcomes. With over 4,000 clinical scales collected, results indicate significant symptom reduction.
Application in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
eTMS has shown promise in reducing substance cravings, particularly for opioids and fentanyl. Pilot studies in inpatient rehabilitation centers indicate:
Alcohol cravings: 58-60% reduction
Opioid cravings: 57-60% reduction
Fentanyl cravings: 72% reduction
This suggests eTMS may be an effective intervention for substance use disorders, addressing neurological factors associated with addiction.
Case Studies
One veteran was consuming 180 morphine equivalents per day. After four weeks of eTMS treatment, he voluntarily discontinued opioid use. He has remained sober for over seven years and has advocated for wider access to eTMS.
Teresa Kane, Executive Director of Perry Behavioral Health Choices, shared an account of her brother’s experience. After years of severe mental illness and addiction, he began eTMS in early 2025. His family observed notable improvements in mental clarity, emotional stability, and daily functioning.
Next Steps and Funding Considerations
Despite promising results, funding remains a barrier to wider adoption. Advocates, including Senator Frank Hoagland, continue to push for legislative support. Expanding eTMS access could provide additional treatment options for mental health and addiction recovery.
Watch the entire session below (Dr. Won’s presentation starts at 41 minutes.)
