Brain Mapping vs. Neurofeedback: What’s the Difference?
If you are exploring neurofeedback, you may hear two terms used during the process: brain mapping and neurofeedback training. Although they are closely connected, they serve different purposes. Brain mapping helps provide information about patterns of brain activity, while neurofeedback uses real-time feedback to train the brain toward improved self-regulation.
At Carlton Neurofeedback Center, understanding your individual brain activity is an important part of creating a personalized neurofeedback experience. Knowing the difference between brain mapping and neurofeedback can help you better understand what to expect.
What Is Brain Mapping?
Brain mapping provides information about electrical activity within the brain. A brain map, also known as a qEEG, measures brainwave patterns and helps identify areas where activity may differ from expected patterns.
The process creates a roadmap that can provide greater insight into how the brain functions. This information can then be considered when developing an individualized neurofeedback training protocol.
Brain mapping may provide useful information when someone is experiencing concerns related to:
- Focus and concentration
- Memory and mental clarity
- Sleep
- Emotional regulation
- Cognitive performance
For example, someone seeking support for ADHD & ADD may be concerned about attention and executive function, while someone looking to Improve Memory Loss may be more focused on recall and cognitive performance.
What Happens During Brain Mapping?
Brain mapping is an assessment, not a neurofeedback training session. The purpose is to collect information on brainwave activity to help guide the next steps.
During the process, electrical activity in the brain is recorded. This information creates a picture of brainwave patterns that can be reviewed when developing a personalized training plan.
Because individuals can experience similar symptoms for different reasons, having information about brain activity can help make the neurofeedback process more individualized.
Someone experiencing Insomnia, for example, may have different goals and patterns than someone seeking support for Depression or Panic Attacks and Anxiety Attacks.
What Is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is the training portion of the process. While brain mapping helps provide information about brain activity, neurofeedback uses feedback to encourage the brain to develop more productive patterns of self-regulation.
During neurofeedback training, sensors monitor brainwave activity while the client sits comfortably. Specialized software provides real-time feedback based on the brain’s activity.
When brainwave patterns move outside desired ranges, the feedback changes. This gives the brain information about what it is doing and encourages it to recognize and practice more balanced patterns.
The process is non-invasive and relies on repetition. Just as practicing a skill helps it become more familiar, repeated neurofeedback sessions give the brain opportunities to practice improved regulation.
Brain Mapping vs. Neurofeedback
The easiest way to understand the difference is to think of brain mapping as gathering information and neurofeedback as using that information for training.
Brain mapping can help:
- Measure patterns of brain activity
- Provide information for personalized planning
- Identify areas that may deserve attention
- Establish a starting point for neurofeedback
Neurofeedback can then use a personalized protocol to train the brain through repeated feedback.
The two processes, therefore, have different roles but can work together. Brain mapping provides the roadmap, while neurofeedback is the training experience that follows.
Why Does Personalization Matter?
People seek neurofeedback for many different reasons. Someone receiving support for PTSD may have different concerns from someone exploring Bipolar Disorder Treatment.
Neurological concerns can also affect individual goals. People who have experienced Concussions may be focused on changes in concentration, memory, or other areas of brain function. Individuals seeking support for Seizures may have another set of concerns.
Other clients may be interested in A Natural Solution For Migraine Headaches or services focused on helping Autism Patients See Better Behavior and Cognitive Abilities.
Understanding the individual rather than applying the same approach to everyone allows neurofeedback training to be more specifically focused on personal goals.
What Can You Expect From the Process?
At Carlton Neurofeedback Center, the process begins with an evaluation to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and goals. Brain mapping can then provide additional information about your brainwave activity.
Using this information, a personalized neurofeedback protocol can be developed. Training sessions provide repeated feedback that helps the brain recognize its patterns and work toward improved self-regulation.
Your progress and experience can then help guide the training process over time.
Discover What Your Brain Is Capable of With the Right Training
Brain mapping and Neurofeedback are not the same thing, but they can complement each other. Brain mapping provides information about brainwave activity, while neurofeedback uses real-time feedback to help train the brain. Together, they create a more personalized approach based on your individual brain patterns and goals.
If you would like to understand what brain mapping and neurofeedback could look like for you, schedule a Free In-Office Evaluation with Carlton Neurofeedback Center. You can schedule a Free In-Office Evaluation online, call 703-335-9149, or Contact Us to learn more about getting started.
Your free evaluation is an opportunity to discuss your goals, ask questions, and learn how a personalized neurofeedback plan may fit your needs.