Call Us:  269-430-7966

MERT FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about MeRT Treatment

Deciding on a new treatment, especially one related to brain health or caring for a loved one, can feel daunting. At Brain Treatment Center Michigan, our team is here to walk beside you with compassion, clarity, and personalized attention.

This page provides answers to the most frequently asked questions about Magnetic e‑Resonance Therapy (MeRT®), including how it works, what to expect, and whether it might be a good fit for you. We aim to make this information clear, supportive, and easy to understand.

If you don’t see an answer to your question here, know that our caring team is always just a phone call away.

CONTACT US TO SEE IF MERT IS RIGHT FOR YOU

General Information

What is MeRT?

MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy) is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that combines repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with EEG and EKG diagnostics. It pinpoints and corrects disruptions in brainwave activity to promote improved communication and function. 

MeRT uses FDA-cleared equipment and customizes treatment based on your brain’s own rhythm and diagnostic data. A licensed physician or neurosurgeon reviews and approves your individualized treatment plan, and the therapy is carefully tailored using brainwave-based diagnostics.  

MeRT is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, major and treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, traumatic brain injury/concussion, cognitive decline, Parkinson’s, stroke recovery, insomnia, ADHD, and more. 

While traditional TMS usually targets a single area of the brain at a fixed frequency, MeRT takes a more advanced approach. MeRT customizes the treatment by using detailed diagnostics and brain imaging, allowing for a personalized protocol. This customization involves adjusting the treatment location, frequency, duration, and magnetic power to suit the individual needs of each patient.
MeRT is an emerging precision-based therapy supported by extensive third-party research featured in leading scientific journals. Numerous studies demonstrate the effectiveness of MeRT across various conditions, with ongoing research continually advancing. To explore peer-reviewed studies on EEGs, rTMS, and MeRT, please visit our Research page.

MeRT Treatment Protocols

What is the process to start MeRT?

It begins with a conversation with our New Patient Coordinator (call at 269-430-7966), followed by non-invasive testing: EEG brain mapping and EKG. After that, you’ll meet with a physician, either virtually or in person, to review the results and discuss customized treatment protocols. 

Daily sessions typically last around 30–45 minutes. Most treatment plans span approximately six weeks, with regular brain scans every two weeks to monitor progress and fine-tune the approach. 

The sessions are non-invasive, painless, and drug-free, using gentle magnetic waves—no anesthetics, electricity, or penetration are involved. 

Based on data from thousands of patients, side effects associated with MeRT are rare and typically mild. The most commonly noted side effect is a slight tension headache at the site of stimulation, which usually lasts 1-2 hours and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Other potential side effects may include hyperactivity, increased agitation, or feelings of euphoria. Although there is a risk of seizures with any brain stimulation therapy, this risk is very low with MeRT. We take additional precautions by limiting the stimulation intensity to further minimize the chance of seizure activity.
 

MeRT treatment primarily focuses on enhancing functional recovery. While results vary from person to person, some commonly reported benefits include:

  • • Enhanced sleep quality
  • • Longer sleep duration
  • • Reduced stress levels
  • • Alleviation of pain
  • • Improved concentration and focus
  • • Stabilized mood and emotional well-being
  • • Greater attention span
  • • Increased social engagement
  • • Boosted motivation
  • • Sharper mental clarity
  • • Reduced cravings (such as for drugs or alcohol)
  • • Better memory retention
  • • Greater adaptability to change
  • • Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem
 
Woman receiving an EEG as part of MeRT treatment
Woman receiving TMS as part of MeRT treatment

Preparing for Treatment

How can I tell if MeRT is right for me?

After your consultation and diagnostic testing (EEG & EKG), we’ll assess whether your brain patterns indicate that MeRT could be beneficial and then recommend a personalized treatment plan. 

No major preparation is needed. Before your qEEG and EKG, and throughout your MeRT sessions, our team will provide you with clear instructions to make sure you’re ready. This may include simple guidelines about hair care, food, or daily routines to help ensure the most accurate results. You’ll receive these details directly from the clinic before you begin.

After Treatment

What kind of follow-up care do you offer?

Follow-up includes regular check-ins, progress monitoring through scans, and possible adjustments or additional sessions based on your response. 

Many people notice improvements in focus, mood, clarity, sleep, and communication. The timeline varies. Some experience results quickly, while others see gradual progress over the weeks. 

Individual results will vary. No specific outcomes can be guaranteed.

Patient Experience

Are there success stories from real patients?

Yes, many patients report remarkable improvements in mood, sleep, focus, communication, pain, memory, confidence, and overall brain function.  Read some of their stories here.

Yes, MeRT has been featured on programs like The Doctors, along with coverage from outlets such as Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, NBC, and more. Read more here.

Happy man after MeRT treatment, sitting in a park

Clinic Details & Staff

Who performs MeRT treatment at your clinic?

We have a team of highly trained neuro technicians who perform MeRT treatment, overseen by our Medical Directors, Dr. Lori Zettell and Dr. Ramona Wallace. Both are board-certified and trained in MeRT, bringing expertise in functional medicine, neuroscience, and compassionate care. Read more about us here.

Address: 105 W Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068

Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone: New Patient Coordinator – 269-430-7966; Existing Patients Front Desk – 269-256-6625 

Insurance & Payment

Is MeRT covered by insurance?

The equipment used in MeRT is FDA-cleared for depression and OCD and is used off-label for other conditions. For non-FDA-cleared treatments, it is unlikely that insurance will cover them. However, we can provide documentation to support any reimbursement requests. Please note that Medicare and Medicaid do not currently cover MeRT. 

Our New Patient Coordinator can walk you through pricing, treatment packages, and any payment plan options during your initial consultation. 

Still Have Questions?

We understand that each journey is unique. If something’s still on your mind, we’re here to listen and support you with compassion and expertise.

Reach out to our New Patient Coordinator at 269-430-7966.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Our caring team is ready to help you take the next step.

Disclaimer

Results with Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy (MeRT) are based on strict adherence to individualized treatment protocols. Because every brain is unique, outcomes will vary from person to person, and no specific results are guaranteed.

The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or medical guidance. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual condition, treatment options, and medical needs.