Book Consultation
Neurofeedback for trauma recovery
  • Brain Mapping Therapy

qEEG Brain Mapping vs. MRI: Key Differences and Applications

What Is qEEG Brain Mapping?

Quantitative Electroencephalography (qEEG) brain mapping is a non-invasive technique that measures brainwave activity. By analyzing electrical patterns in the brain, qEEG provides insights into areas of dysfunction that may contribute to mental health conditions such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, and PTSD.

Key benefits of qEEG brain mapping include:

  • Personalized Treatment: qEEG data is often used to create tailored neurofeedback programs.
  • Non-Invasive and Painless: It involves placing sensors on the scalp to record brain activity without the use of radiation or magnetic fields.
  • Real-Time Brain Function: qEEG captures dynamic, real-time information about how the brain is functioning.

What Is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain’s structure. MRI scans are commonly used to detect structural abnormalities, such as tumors, strokes, or injuries.

Key benefits of MRI include:

  • Detailed Structural Imaging: Provides high-resolution images of the brain’s anatomy.
  • Diagnosis of Physical Conditions: Helps identify physical damage or anomalies in the brain.
  • Non-Invasive: While it uses powerful magnets, the procedure is safe and painless.

Key Differences Between qEEG and MRI

Understanding the distinctions between qEEG brain mapping and MRI is essential for choosing the right diagnostic approach:

Feature qEEG Brain Mapping MRI
Purpose Evaluates brain function and activity. Analyzes brain structure and anatomy.
Use in Mental Health Identifies imbalances linked to conditions like ADHD and PTSD. Detects physical anomalies like tumors or lesions.
Technique Measures electrical brainwaves. Uses magnetic fields to create images.
Data Output Produces brainwave maps and patterns. Provides high-resolution anatomical images.
Time Typically completed in 30-60 minutes. Usually takes 30-90 minutes.

Applications of qEEG Brain Mapping

qEEG is particularly effective for addressing mental health concerns, such as:

  • ADHD and focus-related issues.
  • Anxiety and depression management.
  • PTSD treatment plans.
  • Monitoring progress in neurofeedback therapy.

Applications of MRI

MRI is ideal for diagnosing and managing physical brain conditions, such as:

  • Brain injuries or concussions.
  • Tumors, cysts, or structural abnormalities.
  • Strokes and blood vessel issues.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between qEEG brain mapping and MRI depends on your specific needs. If you’re experiencing symptoms related to mental health and want a personalized treatment plan, qEEG may be the best choice. However, if there are concerns about structural issues in the brain, an MRI can provide critical insights.

Why Choose Connected Brain Counseling for qEEG Brain Mapping?

At Connected Brain Counseling, we specialize in qEEG brain mapping to help clients uncover the root causes of mental health challenges and develop effective treatment plans. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate care and cutting-edge solutions.

  • “Understanding the difference between qEEG and MRI in mental health care.” Brain Science Weekly. Read more.
  • “qEEG applications in neurofeedback therapy.” Psychology Today.
  • “MRI scans for brain health: What you need to know.” Healthline. Explore the article.

Ready to Explore Your Brain Health?

Contact Connected Brain Counseling today to learn more about how qEEG brain mapping can help you take control of your mental well-being. Schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a healthier, happier mind.

Recommended for you:

  • Uncategorized
Friends with Benefits Boundaries
Read More
  • Uncategorized
Self-Care Impact Counseling
Read More

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Book Your Free Consultation

Share this post:

Go Back

Counseling

Select what you’re looking for:

Specialized Therapies

Select what you’re looking for:

Brain-Based Treatments

Select what you’re looking for:

Pauly Munn, MA, LPC

Individual & Couples Counselor; Neurofeedback Clinician; EMDR-Trained (PhD Candidate)

Pauly is a Colorado native who received his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University, and is a current doctoral candidate for a PhD in Clinical Psychology program at Fielding Graduate University. Pauly is an empathetic counselor who believes in a compassionate, yet direct approach to therapy. Pauly believes his clients are the experts of their experience. Through a collaborative lens, clients who work with Pauly are able to gain meaningful insight into their experience which in-turn provides the essential resources for navigating change and/or healing emotional wounds. Pauly utilizes an integrated trauma-informed lens blended with evidence-based modalities including ACT, CBT, EFT, and more. Pauly specializes in working with adult individuals and couples, with several years of experience working directly with a broad range of presenting challenges including relationship challenges, PTSD & complex trauma, substance use disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. More importantly, Pauly believes in building a safe space in which each and every one of his clients feels seen & heard. Pauly identifies as a Latino-American, and is passionate about conducting therapy utilizing a social justice & diversity-informed lens. Pauly has a strong background working with multicultural identities, and believes in the importance of recognizing our unique differences. Pauly loves staying active through basketball, tennis, volleyball, hiking, dancing, strength training, and more. Additionally, Pauly spends time actively engaging in ongoing research projects in trauma, social justice, and neuropsychology.

Pauly's Specialties

  • Depression
  • Complex Trauma
  • Couples Counseling
  • EMDR Trained
Work With Pauly

Brianna Herrera, MA, LPCC

Individual & Couples Counselor; Neurofeedback Clinician

Brianna believes in a holistic approach to counseling, integrating mind, body, and spirit in her work with clients. She strives to help clients weave the various aspects of their lives together through a collaborative approach, meeting her clients where they’re at and partnering with them to create lasting change and a greater sense of wholeness in their lives. Brianna seeks to create a grounding and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences with freedom and authenticity. She embraces a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities to best meet her clients’ specific needs and goals, such as trauma-informed CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based techniques, solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and humanistic approaches. In her work with couples, Brianna focuses on helping partners improve communication, strengthen their emotional connection, and navigate challenges such as conflict resolution, intimacy issues, and life transitions. She believes that life-giving, functioning relationships are foundational to a person’s sense of well-being. Brianna is certified in facilitating both SYMBIS and Prepare-Enrich couples counseling sessions. In her free time, she can often be found adventuring outside with her husband and pup, hosting a game night, or enjoying time with community.

Brianna's Specialties

  • Couples + Dating Therapy
  • Pre/Postpartum
  • Anxiety
  • Women's Issues
Work With Brianna

Sydney Focht, MA, LPC

Clinical Director & Counselor

I specialize in working with women in their 20s to 50s who struggle with self-worth, self-esteem, and the guilt that often comes with prioritizing themselves. Finding self-trust and the ability to feel worthy of happiness are common topics in my work. My clients tend to put off therapy because they downplay their struggles, describing their pain as ‘not that big of a deal.’ Many of them grew up in households where expressing emotions wasn’t encouraged and they are still looking for security now. My goal is to create a space where you feel completely free to be yourself—no pressure, no expectations. Therapy with me isn’t about either of us being ‘perfect’—it’s more about you feeling safe, seen, and supported as you figure things out in a way that works for you. I prioritize meaningful conversations that get to the heart of the issue, getting to the root and out of surface level conversation quickly. Going through my own therapy has given me a deeper understanding of what it’s like to be in the client’s seat, and it’s made me even more passionate about helping others find the support that truly works for them. My clients describe me as focused, compassionate, nonjudgmental, and down-to-earth. I truly love what I do and that comes through in my work! I’m a person-centered therapist, but I often integrate elements of Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and IFS.

Sydney's Specialties

  • Perfectionism
  • Eating Disorders
  • Grief/Loss
  • Women's Issues
Work With Sydney

Cassandra Keller, MA, LPCC

Neurofeedback Clinician & Counselor (EMDR-Trained)

I support adults and teens (15+) who are ready to find relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck in life, career, or identity transitions. Using a compassionate, trauma-informed, and integrative approach, I help clients reconnect with themselves and move toward balance and resilience. I’m EMDR-trained and draw from person-centered, gestalt, DBT, and somatic practices. Whether we’re working with the nervous system, processing painful memories, or exploring patterns with curiosity, my goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel supported, present, and empowered to grow. I especially enjoy working with athletes, creative people, students, and outdoor adventurers who value resilience, beauty, and balance. Alongside therapy and grounding practices, I also offer neurofeedback as another powerful pathway for nervous system regulation and healing. Outside the office, you’ll often find me climbing, fly fishing, running trails, foraging, or relaxing in the grass under the aspens. My love for movement, play, and nature continually inspires how I show up with clients.

Cassandra's Specialties

  • Trauma and Developmental Trauma
  • Nervous System Regulation
  • Anxiety
  • Mind-Body Connection
Work With Cassandra