Brain Mapping (qEEG)
Insight to Support Thoughtful Treatment
What is a QEEG Brain Map?
A qEEG (Quantitative Electroencephalography) is:
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Non-invasive
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Measures electrical activity based on quantity of the different types of brain waves produced in different areas of your brain.
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Compared to age-based norms to identify areas where improvement would benefit
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Produces visual maps and complete report
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It measures brain waves in multiple areas of your brain. This provides functional data that supports clinical understanding.
It does NOT provide a diagnois by itself and it is not a treatment.
It DOES help identify underlying brain patterns supporting struggles and data to use for neurofeedback. Many find it very validating.
Why Do a Brain Map?
Just as physicians use testing to better understand the body before treatment, brain mapping provides objective information about how the brain is functioning. Brain mapping helps us understand how your brain is functioning — not to label it, but to guide thoughtful care. It’s important to recognize that identical symptoms can have very different underlying patterns.
Two people may both present with:
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Anxiety
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Inattention
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Low motivation
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Irritability
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Sleep disturbance
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But one may be operating in chronic high beta over-arousal.
Another may be under-activated with excessive slow-wave activity.
Another may show frontal asymmetry related to mood regulation.
Another may show connectivity inefficiencies.
Same symptoms. Different underlying patterns.
That’s the distinction that matters.
When anxiety, depression, trauma, or attention concerns persist, we need to look beyond symptoms and examine how the brain itself is functioning.
This helps us develop a plan to help you as a unique individual.
It is also the first step in selecting a neurofeedback protocol to help change problematic patterns that have developed. Alone – a brain map is useful. Together with neurofeedback we can develop powerful yet non-invasive approaches to helping you achieve your goals.
Is there a specific brain map pattern for ADHD?
There are tendencies we see in brain maps of individuals with ADHD, but there is no specific pattern that confirms ADHD. For instance, in one month we saw 3 different clients with very similar ADHD symptoms, but each brain map was very different. Each map told a story about how that person was functioning and how we could help.
Is the same true for other issues such as anxiety or depression?
Simply put – yes.
Can you diagnose using a qEEG brain map?
Results of a brain map do not diagnose. However, they are very useful in diagnosing and also in treatment planning.
Should I get a brain map if I am planning on doing neurofeedback?
Yes – absolutely. We recommend never considering neurofeedback without a brain map first. Using the wrong protocol could make your symptoms worse. Think of it like having a physical symptom of “dizzy”. Your physician needs to know if it is an ear infection, a brain issue, perhaps diabetes or an allergy. The approach to treat you would be very different, right? Using a brain map informs us on how to help you.
How long does it take?
A brain map can be completed in 20-30 minutes.
Will I get a report?
Yes – absolutely – you will receive a full report of the results.
Do I have to come to your office to do a brain map?
No you don’t! We have mobile units we can ship to you and support you virtually! Super convenient and very easy.