Alpert Jewish Family Service (Alpert JFS) has opened the Neil S. Hirsch TMS Center in West Palm Beach, introducing a new option for adults seeking treatment for depression and certain other mental health conditions.
The center combines advanced, noninvasive treatment with existing counseling, psychiatric care and support services, aiming to make mental health care more accessible and affordable for residents of Palm Beach County.
A New Approach to Depression Treatment
The Neil S. Hirsch TMS Center offers Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), an FDA-cleared treatment that uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation.
The treatment is designed for adults experiencing depression, depression accompanied by anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) who have not found adequate relief through medication and psychotherapy.
Unlike treatments that require surgery or anesthesia, TMS is performed while patients remain awake. They can generally resume their usual daily activities immediately after each session.
A typical treatment course involves approximately 36 sessions over six weeks, although individual treatment plans may vary.
Financial Assistance Helps Address Cost Barriers
Although TMS has been FDA-cleared for depression since 2008, its cost can make it difficult for some patients to access. Treatment can run into thousands of dollars, and insurance coverage may depend on a patient’s treatment history and individual policy.
The new center was made possible through a contribution from the Neil S. Hirsch Foundation, provided through the Foundation for the Advancement of Clinical TMS (FACTMS).
According to Alpert JFS, the organization is only the third nonprofit in the United States to receive this type of grant. Most insurance plans are accepted, and a sliding fee scale is available to help eligible patients who might otherwise struggle to afford treatment.
Mental Health Services Under One Roof
The center builds on Alpert JFS’s established network of mental health and social services, enabling patients to receive additional support alongside TMS treatment.
Services available through the organization include counseling, psychiatric care, support groups, food assistance, senior services, disability programs and emergency financial assistance.
Dr. Elaine Rotenberg, chief clinical and strategy officer at Alpert JFS, said the center offers another avenue of hope for people experiencing depression and anxiety. She emphasized the importance of connecting individuals with comprehensive services that address the different challenges affecting their lives.
Michael Hoffman, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, also highlighted the importance of expanding access to mental health resources, noting that investments in the Jewish community can benefit residents throughout the wider region.
Patrick McNamara, president and CEO of Palm Health Foundation, stressed that brain health is an essential part of health care and that reducing stigma can encourage more people to seek support.
Serving the Palm Beach County Community
Founded in 1974, Alpert Jewish Family Service provides mental health and social services to children, adults, families and older residents throughout Palm Beach County. The organization employs more than 100 professionals and serves over 12,000 people each year.
The opening of the Neil S. Hirsch TMS Center expands its ability to connect residents with additional treatment options while keeping broader support services accessible through one organization.
Adults in Palm Beach County who would like to learn more about TMS treatment can call 561-713-1892 or request a free assessment through TMS of West Palm Beach.
Credit: South Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
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