Neuromodulation and cognitive rehabilitation at CITA Clinics
When researching various treatments, it is common to encounter terms that seem similar or even interchangeable. However, neuromodulation, cognitive rehabilitation, and Neurojet are distinct options—differing both in how they are applied and in their specific objectives.
At Clínicas CITA, we evaluate each case individually to determine what each person needs and which tools might be appropriate for their treatment.
Three different concepts worth knowing
Neuromodulation: TMS and tDCS
Neuromodulation encompasses various techniques designed to modify or regulate the activity of the nervous system. At CITA, we primarily work with two of these: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).
TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain, without the need for surgery.
tDCS (Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation): applies a low-intensity electric current via electrodes placed on the scalp to modulate brain activity.
Both are applied non-invasively—from the outside—though they function in different ways. TMS utilizes magnetic fields, whereas tDCS employs a low-intensity electric current delivered through electrodes.
Whether one of these techniques is appropriate depends on many factors, including the diagnosis, medical history, potential contraindications, and treatment goals. Furthermore, the scientific evidence and clinical applications vary from case to case.
Cognitive rehabilitation: working on skills for daily life
Cognitive rehabilitation takes a different approach. Its goal is to work on abilities such as memory, attention, planning, and mental flexibility.
It begins with an assessment to identify the difficulties a person is experiencing and the areas that need to be addressed. Based on this, specific goals are set, and a program tailored to the individual’s needs is developed.
The treatment may include exercises, cognitive training, and strategies to help the person function better in their daily activities.
As the person progresses, the program can also be adjusted accordingly.
Neurojet: Neuroelectrical stimulation as an adjunct to treatment
Neurojet is a specialized neuroelectrical stimulation device that, at Clínicas CITA, can be used as an adjunct in certain detoxification processes.
It is not used automatically, nor is it applied to all patients. Before it is incorporated into a treatment plan, a professional assessment is required to determine whether it may offer any benefit in that specific case.
Although Neurojet falls under the category of neuroelectrical stimulation, it is not the same as TMS or tDCS. It is a distinct device, with its own application system and specific protocols.
How can they be part of the treatment?
These interventions do not necessarily pursue the same objective; therefore, they can be used independently or, in some cases, combined as part of a single treatment plan.
For example, an individual might experience difficulties with attention or memory and work on these areas through cognitive rehabilitation. Simultaneously, the medical team may independently assess whether there is a clinical indication for incorporating a neuromodulation technique.
In the treatment of addictions, such interventions are integrated into a broader approach, alongside psychological and psychiatric care, lifestyle changes, and relapse prevention.
The goal is not to employ as many techniques as possible; rather, the priority is to select those that are appropriate for each individual case.
How do they differ?
Neuromodulation: TMS and tDCS
What it is: Brain stimulation techniques.
How it is applied: Using a magnetic coil or electrodes, depending on the technique.
What it focuses on: Modulating the activity of specific brain areas or networks, according to the clinical objective.
How its use is determined: Through a medical assessment of the clinical indication and the most appropriate protocol.
Cognitive rehabilitation
What it is: A program for the assessment and rehabilitation of cognitive abilities.
How it is implemented: Through exercises, training, and personalized strategies.
What it focuses on: Working on functions such as memory, attention, or planning, and applying them to daily life.
How its use is determined: Based on a cognitive assessment and the individual’s specific needs.
Neurojet
What it is: A specialized neuro-electrical stimulation device.
How it is applied: Using the device, in accordance with the protocol prescribed by a professional.
What it focuses on: Providing support during specific detoxification processes.
How its use is determined: Through a medical assessment as part of a detoxification plan.
The first step is to assess your situation.
You do not need to know in advance which of these options might be the most suitable for you.
During the initial assessment, the team will review the reason for your visit, your background, any previous treatments, and other relevant factors. If necessary, additional evaluations may also be considered.
Based on this information, we will be able to explain the potential goals, which options are worth considering—and why—as well as their possible benefits and limitations. We will also outline how the sessions and follow-up care would be structured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are neuromodulation and cognitive rehabilitation the same thing?
No. These are different interventions.
Neuromodulation uses techniques that act directly on the activity of the nervous system. Cognitive rehabilitation, on the other hand, focuses on working on abilities such as memory, attention, or planning through exercises and strategies tailored to each individual.
In some cases, they may be part of the same therapeutic plan.
Is Neurojet the same as TMS or tDCS?
No. Neurojet is a specific neuroelectrical stimulation device. TMS and tDCS are different techniques, involving different equipment, methods of application, and protocols.
For this reason, they should not be considered equivalent or interchangeable treatments.
Can I choose one of these treatments directly?
You can request information about any of them, but before starting, it is important to assess whether it is truly appropriate for your situation.
The medical team will explain the available options and potential alternatives.
Are all three always used?
No. Each treatment is designed based on the individual’s needs. It may include one of these interventions, several of them, or none at all, if it is determined that a different approach is more appropriate.
We help you understand which options might make sense for you.
If you would like to learn more about these programs or find out whether one of them might be a good fit for your treatment, you can contact our team.
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