About qEEG
What is a qeeg?
Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG) is a modern type of electroencephalography (EEG) analysis that involves recording digital EEG signals which are then processed,
transformed, and analyzed using complex mathematical algorithms.
It involves placing an electrode cap (similarly to a swimming cap) on the scalp to detect, record, and measure the brain’s electrical signals or “brainwaves.” The collected data is then processed and analyzed quantitatively to identify patterns, abnormalities, or deviations in brain activity, which can be useful for assessing various neurological conditions or cognitive functions. The qEEG does not assess the structural integrity of the brain but how the brain is functioning based on normative
database values.
The brain-function inter-relationships indicated by qEEG analyses are highly consistent with other clinical indications from psychological and neuropsychological testing and findings from other forms of both structural or functional neuroimaging techniques and have been used to
establish convergent validity of findings (www.iqcb.org).
A QEEG can provide insights into brain function by identifying patterns of electrical activity associated with different conditions. This information is valuable for assessment, monitoring treatment progress, and understanding cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and emotional regulation.
What to expect
The person sitting for a qEEG assessment will first meet with the provider to discuss current
symptoms to address and goals for neurofeedback training. The person will be sitting in a chair for 45-60 minutes in front of a monitor. The correct size cap will be selected and placed carefully on the patient’s head. Sensors will be clipped gently to each ear. Conductive gel will be applied through holes in the electro cap to ensure clear reading of brainwave signals. Once proper impedance is determined, a 10–12-minute recording with eyes open and also with eyes closed will be completed. The patient will leave the assessment with some residual gel in their hair.
It should be noted that the qEEG will be recording how the brain is currently functioning at the time of the recording, which means if the individual is taking medication, the recording will show how the brain is currently functioning on that medication.
