What is an EEG?
EEG stands for electroencephalography. This is simply a test that records the electrical activity coming from the brain. Brain cells, also called neurons, communicate with each other via electrical impulses that are transferred from one neuron to another. This is how the brain functions and communicates with itself and the rest of our body.
In order to obtain these recordings, sensors are placed on the surface of an individual's scalp. This is an easy and non-invasive procedure. These sensors have the ability to measure and record the electrical impulses, also called “brainwaves,” that are constantly being created by the brain.
An EEG measures and records the raw electrical signals that are being produced by the brain. Being able to measure raw brainwave data is great, but we want to be able to interpret the brainwave activity in a useful way. This is where a qEEG is most beneficial.
What is a qEEG?
Watch Ian Early and Dr. Yvonne Tate discuss what a QEEG is and how it can benefit you.
Some Information about QEEG.
QEEG stands for a quantitative electroencephalograph. This is the analysis of all the electrical data that is recorded from the electrodes that are mounted on an individual’s scalp. The qEEG allows us to take the brainwave data and use it to create a picture of what is happening in an individual’s brain, and, even more importantly, put that information to use to make positive changes. A qEEG takes the recordings of a person’s brainwaves, processes it, analyzes it, and then converts this data into a map that can be read by an expert. Brain maps, graphs and a detailed report are produced in order to provide all the information and treatment plans necessary for future success. As Dr. Daniel Amen says, "How can you know what's going on in the brain if you don't look?"
"How can you know what's going on in the brain if you don't look?"
Brain Map
Once all of the data is recorded and quantitatively processed, many detailed images of the individual's brain are displayed. These images, or "brain maps", give your clinician valuable information to determine how your brain is functioning and what areas can be improved.
We can gather a wealth of information about an individual's brain functioning through qEEG brain mapping. Different symptoms and disorders have distinct features that appear on brain maps. We can analyze a brain map to recognize these distinct features and determine the underlying physiology that is causing a person's symptoms. Additionally, we can use the brain maps to determine the most effective treatment for an individual.
QEEG brain mapping can give us a quantitative picture of a person's neuropsychological state. This is extremely valuable in helping to explain a person's symptoms. This can be particularly useful in determining root causes in a complicated symptom presentation. Brain maps further allow us to use imaging technologies to either support or refute diagnoses that have only been based on symptoms.
Reviewing brain maps with clients can be a powerful experience for them as it is often the first time that they have an explanation for symptoms that they have lived with for their entire lives. Another powerful experience is when our clients see the changes in their brain in follow up brain maps that are done after treatment.
Regardless of what your goal is, your brain is the key to getting you there. Everyone's brain is unique. Therefore, having a map of your brain is the first necessary step to help you successfully and safely reach your goal.
Your brain map allows us to see the best route to get you to your goal.
So now what? How do we take these brain maps and actually use them to implement proven interventions that create lasting, positive changes? We use them to design individualized brain training protocols that employ a technology called neurofeedback. Neurofeedback is the technology used to make the desired, positive changes. qEEGs also help inform and guide other treatments that have the potential for maximum benefits.
It's time to have the brain you deserve!
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