QEEG Analysis is an adjunct to the traditional intake interview and psychometric testing.  QEEG Analysis is a non-evasive method to get a picture of how the brain is function in a client.  This function is then compared to a Normative Database of Normal Brain function.  From comparison, we can detect brain function that is outside the norm in site specific regions of the brain and the intensity and the lack or over abundance of brainwaves.  From this information symptoms can be identified or confirmed.   The QEEG will give a clinician a unique look at the client, rather then just what an interview, impression and test can provide.

QEEG data is acquired in the NeuroGuide Database.  NeuroGuide provides our clinicians powerful tools to look for brain function anomalies that express themselves in symptoms.  Some tools include predictors for learning disabilities, closed head injuries and projected I.Q. based on brain function.  Much more can be learned from each unique client as we compare there brain function to that of thousands in a standardized database of normal brain function.  Any functions that are out of the normal range can be detected, located and investigated to determine if these functions are a contributing facture in the clients issues.  This information opens up options to the client in the form of knowledge and treatment.

The NeuroGuide Database allows clinicians to pinpoint areas of interest.  Different reigns of the brain control different functions.  This suggests that some symptoms can be reduced or eliminated if that part of the brain can achieve normal function.  The most common way to change brain function is to have the client consume pharmaceuticals that will change the chemistry of the brain.   Another method is Neurotherapy, brain influenced with a structured biofeedback loop to change itself with rewords for reaching goals.  Over time those goals have a longer lasting effect towards permanency.  There are instances where the brain sometimes needs both pharmaceutical and neurotherapy interventions to have a positive affect.  Family Outreach Services prefers to use Neurotherapy first because there are no side effects or risk of addiction, overdose or brain damage.  chemical are a last resort, but do have an appropriate role in therapy in severe cases.  If it is determined that a pharmaceutical intervention is needed, Family Outreach Services will work with your local doctor, a physiatrist or neurologist for the best pharmaceutical intervention in conjunction with neurotherapy.

The following are examples of how QEEG analysis can help as an adjunct to interviews and standardized tests in the development of an more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan:

(1) A client’s symptoms and history point to a bipolar disorder. Bipolar symptoms began manifesting when they were approximately 20-years-old.  Captured brainwave analysis provides 3D images, localizing, site-specific patterns, indicative of brain trauma injury; influencing unstable activity in the Limbic system, mimicking bipolar symptoms. Knowing that a closed head injury affecting the mood center of the brain exists can explain the Bipolar like symptoms and why treatment with pharmaceuticals haves been ineffective.  QEEG's give the clinician a more dimensional view of the client.

(2) A client’s symptoms and history point to ADHD disorder. ADHD symptoms began manifesting when they were approximately 4-years-old. Captured brainwave analysis provides 3D images, localizing, site-specific patterns identifying the left side of the amygdala and parahippocampus showing these regions as hyper-aroused; influencing unstable hyperactivity from the sub-cortical. Knowing that ADHD is primarily in the Frontal Lobs (above the eyes) and in the temporal lobes, the symptomatic area is very low and close to the sub-cortical and mood/emotion regulation region.  In this region stimulants will have the opposite desired affect, rather then slowing down the frontal lobe, the mood and emotion regions become over stimulated making the client's physical movement and moods erratic.  This client described their mind out of control their emotions choking them, they would sit and rock back and forth and considered suicide as a solution to madness.  The QEEG Analysis provided information necessary to convince the Psychiatrist to talk the client off the stimulants.  The Psychiatrist replied after seeing the QEEG quote, "I would have never put this client on stimulants if I have know this."

When treatment and medications are just not helping, let FOS take a look with a QEEG.  If the information provides new information, a new treatment plan can be developed.