Brain Mapping /QEEG (Quantitative EEG)
QEEG / brain mapping
QEEG, short for quantitative EEG—is a non-invasive way to measure and analyse brainwave activity. While not a diagnostic test, a qEEG (brain map) gives a detailed picture of how different brain regions are functioning and serves as a data-driven roadmap for neurofeedback training.
What is qEEG?
A soft EEG cap with small sensors records the tiny electrical signals produced by your brain cells. These are amplified and stored as an electroencephalogram (EEG).
qEEG then applies advanced, computer-based analysis to that EEG data—looking at frequency bands, signal complexity, and brain network connectivity—to reveal patterns related to attention, memory, mood regulation, sleep, and overall cognitive processing.
What is the difference between EEG and qEEG?
- EEG: records electrical activity in the brain.
- qEEG (quantitative EEG): analyses that activity to create a detailed brain map that can guide personalised neurofeedback protocols.
What a brain map shows
A qEEG produces colour-coded maps of brainwave patterns across regions. By comparing these patterns to age-normed references, we can identify imbalances or irregularities associated with challenges such as attention regulation (e.g., ADHD), anxiety, depression, sleep issues/insomnia, and cognitive or developmental differences. qEEG doesn’t diagnose conditions; it helps inform next steps and training plans.
Personalised neurofeedback plans
Your brain map informs a tailored neurofeedback programme, targeting areas that may benefit from improved regulation and balance—supporting focus, emotional regulation, memory, and sleep quality.
What to expect during a qEEG session?
1. Intake & history
We discuss your background, medical and developmental history, symptoms (and their severity), major life events, and family context to understand your unique needs.
2. Recording
You’ll sit comfortably while we fit the qEEG cap. We record brain activity with eyes open, eyes closed, and during a few brief cognitive tasks (e.g., simple attention or working-memory tasks). The entire process is non-invasive and involves no pain.
3. Clean-up
We remove the cap, and you can return to your day as normal—no downtime required.
Results & review
We typically require about one week to process and interpret your data. Once all evaluations are complete, we’ll meet in person to review your brain map, explain what it means, and discuss recommended neurofeedback training options. If you wish, we can email you a PDF copy of your brain map report.
Is qEEG right for me?
People seek qEEG when they want a clearer picture of brain function related to attention and focus, stress and anxiety, mood, sleep, learning, or peak performance. If you’re exploring neurofeedback, qEEG provides the objective starting point.
References
Galiana-Simal A, Vecina-Navarro P, Sánchez-Ruiz P, Vela-Romero M. Electroencefalografía cuantitativa como herramienta para el diagnóstico y seguimiento del paciente con trastorno por déficit de atención/hiperactividad [Quantitative electroencephalography as a tool for the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder]. Rev Neurol. 2020 Mar 16;70(6):197-205. Spanish. doi: 10.33588/rn.7006.2019311. PMID: 32149379. [PubMed] [Ref]
Ribas VR, Ribas RG, Nóbrega JA, da Nóbrega MV, Espécie JAA, Calafange MT, Calafange COM, Martins HAL. Pattern of anxiety, insecurity, fear, panic and/or phobia observed by quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG). Dement Neuropsychol. 2018 Jul-Sep;12(3):264-271. doi: 10.1590/1980-57642018dn12-030007. PMID: 30425790; PMCID: PMC6200158. [PubMed] [Ref]