19 Channel QEEG Assessment
Brain Mapping:
LORETA NEUROFEEDBACK TRAINING
LORETA neurofeedback is an advanced form of neurofeedback training. It involves wearing a cap that measures 19 sites on the head. With this approach we can see what is happening at 47 Brodmann areas in your brain. In addition, the complex mathematics involved in LORETA allow us to train amplitudes, coherence and phase at 47 Brodmann areas. Communication between sites deep in the cortex can also be influenced. This is why some call it Deep Brain Neurofeedback. This program also allows us to train networks in the brain. Networks are areas of the brain that work together to perform a function. There are networks associated with executive function, attention, mood, anxiety, and pain. As we are able to target many locations at once, we are able to see the effects of the training more quickly than traditional neurofeedback.
The training itself involves receiving feedback in the form of a DVD movie or animation. When the client is able to move their brainwave patterns in the right direction (direction toward resolving symptoms) then the DVD movie/animation will play. The client learns what it feels like to be in the desired mental state (often a state of calm, relaxed focus and concentration). They can also learn to regulate brainwave patterns in order to normalize brain functioning in areas where they are having difficulty. A simple example of this would be a person who has difficulty reading. After practice they are able to achieve this state more easily and their brain begins to function in a more optimal way.
We began using LORETA neurofeedback in our centre several years ago. Our preliminary results with clients experiencing head injury, anxiety, depression, learning difficulties, and ADHD have been impressive and we are hoping to publish research in the near future.
Our LORETA neurofeedback training program is based on a complete assessment of the brain (brain map) and is tailored to the client. We collaborate with the client to decide what the best training program will be for them and then we update it after every 10 training sessions.
Some of the symptoms and areas of concern that can be worked on in training include the following:
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Anxiety
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Dyslexia
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Migraines
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Difficulties interpreting
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Attention Deficits
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Executive Function
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Short Term Memory
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Nuance, Innuendo and Emotions
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Balance Problems
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Depression
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Face Recognition
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Slow Reader
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Blurred Vision
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Hyperactivity
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Sleep Problems
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Chronic Pain
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Impulsivity
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Anger Management
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Mood Swings
19 Channel QEEG Assessments:
The 19 Channel QEEG Assessment, also known as the full cap assessment. This assessment measures the brain at 19 different locations and compares the clients brainwave patterns to a large database. The result is a brain map or a picture of how the brain is functioning:
On the map above, the red and orange areas are outside the normal range as compared to the database. Each area on the brain corresponds to a different function. For example, if we see that an area of the brain that usually corresponds to anxiety is red, we can ask the client if they experience anxiety. If they do, then this is something that we can target in training. With Neuroguide and LORETA we can look at areas of the brain, connections between areas of the brain and networks. This assessment tool is very powerful in helping us determine the best training program for each client.
After this assessment, a program can be created for the client that is tailored specifically for them with a goal of optimizing brain performance. Following the training program, a reassessment is booked and another 19 Channel Assessment is done. The brain maps can then be compared. Below you can see a comparison of a brain map before and after training. This client was training to improve symptoms following a concussion. You can see how the red and orange areas have normalized to a green colour. This change corresponded to reduced in anxiety, improved mood, and better focus.
Before Training:
After Training:
We offer both single channel training programs and Loretta Neurofeedback.