Dr. Bigdeli's Center · QEEG brain mapping
A clearer picture of
brain activity
From understanding brain mapping to choosing an assessment pathway, with clear explanations, informed preparation and support in scheduling your appointment.
EEG / QEEG · A complementary assessment guided by a specialist
Submitting a request does not confirm that a test is needed or that an appointment is final.
The brain's electrical activity
Electrodes on the scalp
Alongside history and examination
Requests and appointment status
Make an informed choice before your visit
What is brain mapping, and what does it show?
An assessment tool, not a label for a person's abilities or future.
Recording the brain's electrical activity
In an electroencephalogram (EEG), sensors are placed on the scalp to record the brain's electrical activity. This test is different from structural imaging such as MRI.
Quantitative analysis of the recorded data
In QEEG-based brain mapping, EEG data are analyzed and displayed using computational methods. Colors and charts alone are not a diagnosis and must be interpreted together with the raw data and the clinical picture.
A specialist decides which test is appropriate, whether it is needed and how it is interpreted. Before your visit, confirm the available service with the department secretary.
Realistic expectations of the assessment
A result that has to be read correctly
History before the chart
Share the reason for referral, symptoms, medications and previous tests with the specialist; the report cannot be separated from the person's circumstances.
Recording quality matters
Movement, blinking and muscle activity can affect the data. Checking signal quality is part of specialist interpretation.
Next steps with a specialist's advice
A colored chart on its own is not a treatment prescription. Ask the specialist to explain what the findings mean and whether follow-up is needed.
From request to follow-up
Your visit, step by step
- 01
Submit a request
Select brain mapping and enter the client's details and the reason for the visit. The admission method shown follows this department's active settings.
- 02
Coordination with the department secretary
With monthly admission, the secretary reviews the request and announces the exact time and conditions of the visit. The selected month is not a confirmed appointment.
- 03
Visit and follow-up
Bring your documents, and check the status of your request and the announced appointment in the client panel. Results are interpreted by a specialist.
Pre-visit checklist
Better prepared, a calmer experience
Clean, dry hair
For an EEG, hair usually needs to be clean, dry and free of gel or styling products. Get the center's instructions before your visit.
Medications and doctor's instructions
Prepare a list of current medications. Do not stop or change any medication on your own; ask about test-specific instructions.
Documents and previous tests
Bring the referral letter if you have one, previous reports and a short note on the reason for the visit.
Needs of the child or companion
Mention sensitivity to touch, anxiety about new environments or the need for a companion early on, so the visit conditions can be arranged.
Sleep and nutrition
If the test requires special preparation, the assessment team will guide you. Without specific instructions, do not change sleep or eating habits.
Time and cost of the service
When scheduling, ask about the length of the visit, the cost and when the report will be ready; these depend on the type of test and the admission conditions.
Your questions about brain mapping
Is brain mapping the same as an MRI?
No. EEG records the electrical activity of the brain, and QEEG analyzes it quantitatively. MRI examines the structure of the body using a different imaging method; the choice of test depends on the clinical question.
Does electricity enter the brain during an EEG recording?
In a standard EEG recording, electrodes on the scalp pick up signals and do not send electricity into the brain. This is different from brain stimulation methods.
Should every autistic child have brain mapping?
No. The need for an EEG or further analysis should be decided on the basis of an individual assessment. This test alone is not a criterion for diagnosing autism; raise any concerns about seizures with a physician.
What should we do if a child is anxious or sensitive to touch?
Let the secretary know before the visit and explain the child's situation. Ask the assessment team whether a companion can be present and what preparation is needed.
How much does the test cost, and how long does it take?
It depends on the type of test, the person's situation and the center's schedule. The department secretary will go over the available details before the visit; no fixed fee or duration is stated on this page.
Is the appointment confirmed as soon as I submit a request?
For monthly requests, no; the secretary announces the day and time after reviewing it. If direct time selection is enabled for this department, the confirmation terms of that process are shown. Track the status in your panel.
Start here to arrange brain mapping
Submit your request to see the department's admission status; contact the center with questions about the type of test and the conditions of the visit.
Further reading: NHS guide to EEG · NICE guidance on autism assessment · Guidance on the clinical use of QEEG
This content is for general information and does not replace individual advice from a specialist.
Have a question? Contact the center →