QEEG Brain Mapping

  

An assessment tool of acquiring EEG data in eyes open and eyes closed state. The data collected is then compared to a data base of “normal” EEG’s to identify areas in the brain that are “out of synch” or dysregulated and cause symptoms like ADD.  The brain map information is used to set up personalized protocols for Neurofeedback.

http://qeegcertificationboard.org


Preparation for the Day of the QEEG Brain Map

What to bring with you:

What to expect:

When you come for your appointment, you must turn off your cell phone or any other electronic equipment which can interfere with the recording. We strongly encourage you to visit the bathroom down the hall immediately before we begin to set up for the recording. Once we get started it is very difficult to stop for a potty break.

You will sit in a comfortable chair. We will be placing a cap on your head (similar to a swim cap) with 19 sensors attached to it. At each sensor site we will be adding conductive gel to amplify the signal. The gel is clear and water soluble and is similar in consistency to hair gel. We will also attach a sensor to each ear lobe and one to your forearm. If you are wearing earrings, you will need to remove them. We will check to make sure that all the sensors are able to pick up the brain signals clearly without interference before we begin to record.

The recording is divided into two parts. The first is recording with your eyes open for 6 – 10 minutes and the second is with your eyes closed for the same amount of time. The primary goal is to obtain the most accurate “snap shot” of your brain activity when you are rested, relaxed, alert and comfortably satiated (not hungry). It is best to obtain a recording of the EEG with as little artifact as possible. Artifact is something other than EEG that usually comes from the electrical energy given off by eye movements, jaw or tongue movements, muscle tension in the forehead or drowsiness. We will guide you through the process and may ask you to relax your forehead or jaw from time to time. Just relax, sit quietly and stay as alert as possible.

When the recording is completed, the cap is removed and there will be spots of this gel still left on your head. We will try our best to wipe most of it off but there will be residual amounts still on your head. You can use the bathroom to rinse off your head if you like and dry with a towel that you bring. A comb or brush would be advisable to help you look your best when you leave. Hats or scarves are helpful to wear until you can get home to shower.

Be aware that a recording may need to be repeated due to excessive artifact like movement, drowsiness or muscle tension. Another reason would be if the individual is not able to tolerate the recoding procedure such as sitting quietly or not able to tolerate having the cap on their head. There will be an additional administrative charge if there is a need to reschedule.