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Keith Zukiwski, PhD., R.Psych. Edmonton Psychologist (780) 982-6856 Contact Dr. Zukiwski to arrange an appointment to learn how brainmapping and neurofeedback works and if it is a treatment option you should consider. Download one page PDF brochure on Dr. Zukiwski's neurofeedback services Neurofeedback and Quantitative EEG Brainmapping for:
Quantitative EEG Brainmapping EEG, or electroencephalogram, is the recording of electrical activity of the brain by means of electrodes placed on the surface of the head. Brain mapping begins with 19 channel EEG recordings taken under eyes open and eyes closed conditions. EEG data may also be collected during tasks such as reading and listening. EEG analysis is the interpretation of the brain wave recordings through an examination of the type of waves and abnomalities of size, shape, and patterns. This is typically performed by a neurologist who can help identify underlying brain pathology and seizure disorders. Over 30% of EEGs submitted for medical review are found to be clinically abnormal which suggests a neurological basis to the problem. QEEG, or Quantitive EEG, is the mathematical and statistical analysis of the brain's electrical activity. Carefully edited EEG data is processed through special EEG databases to compare the individual's brain function to people of similar age without illness or pathology. This comparison helps to identify areas of the brain that are producing abnormalities in terms of amounts and types of electrical activity, coherence (essentially connectivity between sites), and phase (speed of information between sites). Brain mapping typically reveals patterns of excesses or deficiencies in brain wave frequencies that are characteristic for certain disorders. Problems with connectivity between sites in the brain may be the key issue in epilepsy and learning disabilities. Medications typically do not change these underlying problems, leaving you to suffer with reoccuring or chronic symptoms. The QEEG can assist in differentiating between students with ADHD, learning disability, depression, head injuries, and seizure disorders. Learning disabled population have slower patterns of brain activity with excess delta frequencies (1-3.5 Hz) over the central and parietal lobes. Low blood perfusion in the frontal areas in ADD/ADHD shows as an idling frequency of alpha (8-13 Hz) and/or theta (4-7 Hz). The qEEG can differentiate between forms of ADD/ADHD, each of which respond to different therapies. Neurofeedback QEEG is used to identify abnormal brain function and create individualized neurofeedback treatment plans to improve function, and normalize EEG. Real-time computer based feedback of brain wave activity can be used to effectively train healthier brainwave wave patterns in children and adults. This training is called neurofeedback, neurotherapy or electroencephalogram biofeedback. One or two electrodes are positioned on the scalp and electrodes are pla ced on each ear. Brainwaves are displayed on a computer screen a few thousandths of a second after they occur. Software is used to provide reinforcement – a sound or visual signal – when the right brain frequencies are produced. Through operant conditioning, brain frequencies that are in excess are reduced, and those with a deficit are increased. As the dyfunctional brain patterns are corrected, the signs and symptoms of the disorder are typically reduced or eliminated. Children and adults with ADHD can be taught to stabilize the activity at the motor strip of the brain to calm down hyperactivity, take the brain out of an idle state (suppress theta and alpha) and increase normal thinking beta wave activity. Normalizing connectivity between sites in the brain can be effective for treating learning/reading disabilities and epilepsy. Neurofeedback Training Most conditions require an estimated 40 sessions to achieve treatment goals. It has been reported that 25 sessions is typically the least number required. Some clients may require more than 40 sessions. If you continue to improve with additional treatment beyond 40 sessions, it may be recommended that you you continue treatment. Once the level of improvement desired has been met, between 5 and 10 additional sessions are recommended to help preserve those changes long term. The goal is to achieve improvements that are substantial and enduring. Some clients may require occasional booster sessions, most however do not. Approximately 80% of clients experience significant lasting improvements with neurofeedback. It is common that significant improvements in symptoms may not be seen until approximately 15 to 20 sessions. |