Brain Map
qEEG Brain Map
A Customized, Accurate Analysis Of Your Brain
The heart of our system is the Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG), also known as a brain map. A Brain Map is a non-invasive tool we use to identify the problem areas of the brain. The qEEG is designed to evaluate a person’s brainwave patterns and takes the guesswork out of determining a person’s condition objectively and scientifically. The Brain Map process is painless, safe, accurate, and non-invasive.
How Does a Brain Map Work?
A brain map involves scanning the brain waves on the surface of the scalp using a dry headset or a nylon cap. This method is known as a Quantitative Electroencephalogram (qEEG) and provides an accurate recording of your brain function. These recordings DO NOT put any electrical current into the brain – they simply record signals coming from the brain. The system then compares your brainwave activity to a database of established standards of normal brain function to determine if areas of dysregulation are present. It does not diagnose specific conditions: it shows a map of where brainwaves are out of balance.
There are two methods to recording Brain Maps
We offer two methods to record a qEEG Brain Map. The traditional
method is using a nylon cap (shown using the blue cap) and using gel to
establish a connection. The second method is using a CGX headset
(shown with the black headset) without the use of gel. The CGX headset
will fit most people from ages 5 and up.
CGX enjoys the reputation for designing the most accurate data-rich dry
EEG systems for researchers and practitioners. They’ve earned this
reputation through engineering prowess and best-in-class technical
assistance. CGX’s team of engineers focuses on dry-EEG technology,
bringing the benefits of no-prep, accurate results to neurophysiological
researchers.
Is one better than the other?
No, they are both superior methods to recording brain waves, however, we find that most people prefer a dry cap to using the gel method. Using the wireless headset, we are also able to perform the Brain Map faster, making it more comfortable for our clients.
Wireless Dry Electrode Systems: How do they work?
Our CGX dry electrodes work because they are backed by sophisticated mechanics and electronics while most companies focus on a single element, such as the electrode. At CGX, they focus on rigorous internal testing and validation to international standards. Which is why researchers around the world use their systems in independent, peer reviewed publications. The result is the product of thousands of hours of engineering—modeling, prototyping, and optimizing.
What to Expect During a Dry Brain Map
1. Choose a time of day you can arrive to your appointment with clean, dry hair free of any hair products such as gels, hairsprays, creams, etc. Avoid hair styles that have clips, ties, braids, etc. Please inform the front desk if you have a hair weave or extensions.
2. Glucose plays an important role in qEEG data, that’s why we ask our clients to try and have a healthy snack 1-2 hours before your appointment, avoiding caffeine and sugar. We can offer you a small juice if you are unable to eat beforehand.
3. Turn off your cell phone or place it in airplane mode. Cell phone signals can interfere with our recording.
4. Remove earrings, we will be placing an ear clip on your ear.
5. Then, we have you (or a parent/guardian) complete our Cognitive Emotional Questionnaire. This helps us in your qEEG analysis and gives us a guide once you start your neurofeedback.
6. We then place the headset over your hair, clips on both ears and a sticky sensor under your left clavicle (over your heart) to measure your heart rate.
7. After the headset is on and in place, it will take a couple minutes to establish a strong connection with the sensors. We do this by moving them around slightly, making sure that there isn’t a great deal of hair blocking the connection.
8. After the connection is made, we can now start the recording.
9. We will record 5 minutes with your eyes open and 5 minutes with your eyes closed for a total of about 10 minutes. If at any point during the recording process is interrupted by movement, talking, or irritability, we may take a second recording.
10. Once this is complete, your brain map is analyzed by a board-certified quantitative EEG analyst.
After the analysis, you will meet with our director and review his findings of your map.
What to Expect During a Wet Brain Map
Steps 1 – 5 from Dry Brain Map.
- We then measure and fit a nylon cap on the head. Embedded within the cap are 19 small sensors that are designed to measure and record electrical activity (or brain waves) coming from the brain.
- We fill these 19 sensors with a water-based gel. This gel will come in contact with your hair and scalp. The gel is clear and can easily be washed out with water.
- We can now start the recording. The best data is collected when a person is calm and relaxed. So, keep in mind what time of day works best for you or your child.The recording is done with eyes open and then again with eyes closed.
- Once this is complete, your brain map is analyzed by a board-certified quantitative EEG analyst.
- After the analysis, you will meet with our director and review his findings of your map.
What will the Brain Map show?
The brain map can show how different parts of the brain function. Specifically, brain maps can help us see which parts of our brain function normally or abnormally. We cannot determine a diagnosis, but it can help reveal symptoms associated with:
- ADD/ADHD
- Anxiety/Stress
- Autism
- Brain Injury/Concussion
- Depression
- Epilepsy
- PTSD/Trauma
- Seizures
- Sleep issues/Insomnia
- Memory problems
Does medication affect my Brain Map?
Yes! That is why it is important that you inform the neuro team at The Brain Wave Center if you start, stop, or make any changes to your medications at any time.
Who is analyzing my Brain Map?
Jared Neubrander, M.S., QEEG-D, Director of qEEG Analysis is a board-certified diplomate in quantitative EEG analytics and has been passionately working in the field of qEEG and neurotherapy since 2008. He had the distinct pleasure of being mentored by the world leaders in the discipline of neurotherapy and have successfully stewarded clinics working with diverse populations such as Autism, Traumatic Brain Injury, Professional Athletes, Mental Health, and Substance Use Disorders. He is excited for the opportunity to collaborate with The Brain Wave Center in inspiring optimal neural performance for all who seek it.
Who reviews my map with me?
You will be scheduled for a 15-minute review with Dr. Stephen Feig, Medical Director to review your findings.
Dr. Feig is a family physician specializing in functional medicine approaches to difficult to treat medical conditions. He is regarded as an expert in therapeutic nutrition, anti-aging therapies and integrative medicine.
Please note the review will be scheduled at least 24 to 48 hours after your map, this allows us to analyze and develop neurofeedback training protocols if appropriate. We strongly encourage clients to have their spouse or friend/family member at the review, especially if they participate in the decision-making process for addressing emotional health issues. *Additional reviews and/or written interpretations will be charged an additional fee.
What happens if I have more questions about what to do next regarding my health concerns?
You can schedule a Clinical Consultation with Dr. Feig. This can be an in-depth consultation and/or to review labs, medical records, or explore a functional approach to your healing.
Beta Waves
These brainwaves are commonly observed while we are awake. They are involved in conscious thought, logical thinking, writing, reading and stimulation. Having the right amount of beta waves allows us to focus and complete school or work-based tasks easily. Having too much beta may lead to us experiencing excessive stress and/or anxiety.
- Too much: Adrenaline, anxiety, high arousal, inability to relax, stress
- Too little: ADHD, daydreaming, depression, poor cognition
- Optimal: Conscious focus, memory, problem solving
- Increase beta waves: Coffee, energy drinks, various stimulants
Alpha Waves
This frequency range bridges the gap between our conscious thinking and subconscious mind. It helps us calm down when necessary and promotes feelings of deep relaxation. If we become stressed, a phenomenon called “alpha blocking” may occur which involves the beta waves “blocking” the production of alpha waves.
- Too much: Daydreaming, inability to focus, too relaxed
- Too little: Anxiety, high stress, insomnia, OCD
- Optimal: Relaxation
- Increase alpha waves: Alcohol, marijuana, relaxants, some antidepressants
Theta Waves
This particular frequency range is involved in daydreaming and sleep. Theta waves are connected to us experiencing and feeling deep and raw emotions. Too much theta activity may cause depression and make people “highly suggestible” because they are in a deeply relaxed, semi-hypnotic state. Theta can improve intuition, creativity, and makes us feel more natural. It is also involved in restorative sleep.
- Too much: ADHD, depression, hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattentiveness
- Too little: Anxiety, poor emotional awareness, stress
- Optimal: Creativity, emotional connection, intuition, relaxation
- Increase theta waves: Depressants
Delta Waves
These are the slowest recorded brain waves in human beings. They are associated with the deepest levels of relaxation and restorative, healing sleep. Adequate production of delta waves helps us feel completely rejuvenated after we wake up from a good night’s sleep.
- Too much: Concussions, learning problems, inability to think, severe ADHD
- Too little: Inability to rejuvenate body, inability to revitalize the brain, poor sleep
- Optimal: Immune system, natural healing, restorative / deep sleep
- Increase delta waves: Depressants, sleep
Want To Schedule Your Brain Map?
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Our system is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. In fact, the FDA recognizes that neurofeedback has NEVER produced a serious side effect since it was first discovered over 40 years ago. There are also thousands of research articles and personal testimonials that prove it effectiveness. Click a box below to learn more.
Schedule Free Evaluation
640 S. Washington Blvd.
Sarasota, FL 34236
(941) 552-4500
Hours
Monday – Tuesday – Wednesday 10am – 6pm
Thursday – Friday 11am – 7pm