How QEEG works

Focus on Attention

How exactly does the
qEEG work and what
can I expect?

Purpose:
Researchers have known for many years that brainwaves differ between individuals. These differences can be monitored by a simple procedure know as an Electroencephalograph or EEG. Ongoing research has demonstrated that physicians and psychologists can be aided in assessing various neuropsychiatric disorders like ADHD and ADD using quantitative EEG or qEEG. An clinician using qEEG takes brainwaves and compares them with large EEG databases. The clinician is then able to deduce possible differences in a person's brainwave patterns. This information can then used by the physician or psychologist to refine clinical observations and to guide them in performing further evaluation and testing.

Currently the qEEG process and analysis is considered to be the most objective and effective way to assess the likelihood of ADHD and ADD as well as to determine if there exist any potent co-existing issues such as anxiety, depression or sleep disorder. Research also indicates that people with Asberger's Syndrome and Autism exhibit specific brainwave patterns that may be detected by the qEEG process.

MY OFFICE QEEG AREA

QEEG PROCEDURE BEING DONE

Procedure: The procedure takes a one-hour office visit and is totally non-invasive and non-painful. First, a bathing cap-like cap is placed on the head and small amounts of clear gel is applied so that the cap's electrodes can pick up the faint electrical signals at the surface of the scalp skin. A parent or guardian is required to be in the room at all times and to assist in the placement of the cap. Data is collected with eyes open and eyes closed (about four - five minutes for each). The data is then sent to a master computer where it is analyzed, and a detailed set of reports is generated.

Reports: The first report is an eight - ten page report which contains the specific technical analysis of the brainwave data. The second report, written by a Board-certified neurologist, contains a narrative summary of the data and diagnostic implications. The value of this type of analysis is that it can indicate the specific areas of the brain that are exhibiting some problems, such as auditory or visual processing areas, memory areas, emotion and behavior areas, etc.. I then provide the parent, guardian or client with interpretations of the reports along with specific treatment recommendations. All the information can be used to implement a better treatment program. In addition,
a physician or psychiatrist can use that information to help determine if medications are warranted.

Technical View:

Research has proven that brainwave activity patterns are distinctly different in those exhibiting ADHD or ADD symptoms from those who do not exhibit ADHD or ADD symptoms. Put simply, those individuals with ADHD or ADD symptoms have weaker beta waves (associated with alertness, focus and concentration) and stronger theta waves (associated with drowsiness, sleep and daydreaming) than individuals without ADHD or ADD symptoms. Thus, the theta waves "interfere" with the beta waves which results in diffused attention and decreased ability to focus.

The illustration below shows brainwave activity as measured by a qEEG. The qEEG analysis indicates the strength of each brainwave (beta, alpha, theta, delta) in the various parts of the brain. It is an extremely accurate tool for seeing what actual brain areas are functioning "strong" or weak". The brighter colors (reds, yellow, orange) mean strong electrical activity while the darker colors (greens and blues) mean weaker electrical activity. This type of analysis is available for viewing and is represented in the NeuroLex report.

DELTA THETA ALPHA BETA

In some cases reports have come back that indicate the likelihood that ADHD or ADD does not exist and that anxiety, depression and/or a sleep disorder which could be the root of a person's problems. Recent research also indicates
that QEEG can detect brainwaves patterns specific to individuals exhibiting symptoms of Asberger's Syndrome and
Autism.

That information is extremely important as it can then be used to assist the physician or psychiatrist to clarify what medications may be most helpful.

A recent case involved a ten year old girl diagnosed ADHD two years ago who was then put on Ritalin. She became more hyper and anxious, could not sleep and was disorganized at school. A recent qEEG was negative for ADHD/ADD. Her doctor weaned her off the Ritalin. She became less hyper, sleep improved, anxiety diminished and she became more focused at school.

Price: The cost of a qEEG is about one-third that of the typical neuropsychological testing battery and report (Usually costs about $1,500 - 2,000). Some insurance companies pay for it or a portion a qEEG. Some companies will not pay for it. We attempt to clarify what is covered before a qEEG procedure is done and inform you of that information. If it appears that your insurance company will not cover the procedure, but will cover the initial intake and follow-up session, we will let you know before the procedure is conducted. If the procedure is not covered, payment is due at the time of the qEEG procedure. It is also necessary for you to sign a form which notes the above information and gives permission to conduct the QEEG.

Practicality: The qEEG procedure is practical in the sense that it is deemed by many scientists to be the most effective way of assessing the likelihood of ADHD/ADD with 90%+/- accuracy. It is 95%+/- accurate in assessing the likelihood of co-existing and/or alternate diagnoses. In summary, in one hour, we can get a the most clinically accurate assessment of brainwave activity as it relates to ADHD and ADD. That information can then clarify any issues which may have arisen as the result of other evaluative methods.