What is quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG)?

Electroencephalography (EEG) is the measurement of electrical patterns at the surface of the scalp which reflect cortical activity, and are commonly referred to as “brainwaves”.  Quantitative EEG (qEEG) is the analysis of the digitized EEG. This is sometimes also called “Brain Mapping”.

What will a qEEG/Brain Mapping show? 

Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG) utilizes modern analytic software to help measure the brain’s activity levels and connectivity. Next we are able to analyze that data compared to an age matched norm. This novel approach can be used to assist us in determining which areas of the brain are engaged and processing efficiently and which areas may be dysregulated. Brain mapping can allow a view into the brain’s functionality and explain clients’ concerns and symptoms. There is enough cumulative research to quantify what brain activity patterns are responsible for certain disorders such as ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders and more.

What does a qEEG feel like?

qEEG is a noninvasive approach meaning it is passively reading brain electrical activity and then collecting the data to be analyzed. There is nothing going into the head and no electrical currents coming from the cap. We do utilize a water soluble gel which is also non toxic as a conductive solution in order to reach brain activity in deeper brain structures. 

What should I be doing during a qEEG?

We ask that clients maintain a calm but present demeanor during the recording. Our technicians will assess for disruptive activity such as eye movement and jaw tension among other things.

How long does this procedure take?

Please allow for 45-minutes for the initial qEEG assessment. The actual qEEG recording consists of two 10 minute recordings. One recording with eyes open, and one with eyes closed. The rest of the appointment is for equipment set up and time for going over the procedure as well as time for questions. 

How should you prepare for a qEEG?

• Please do not consume alcohol/recreational drugs 24 hours before the assessment, and restrict your caffeine intake on the day of assessment

• Please, try and get sufficient rest in the night before the assessment

• Please, notify us of all medication/drugs you take ahead of the assessment

• Please, arrive for your assessment with dry and clean hair, with a minimum of hair products (gels and conditioners) to ensure the best contact for the EEG sensors

• Please, allow sufficient time to arrive for your appointment without getting stressed

• Please arrive in a cool temperature state, as heat can disrupt EEG sensors.