Learn About Your Child's Brain: Brain Mapping for Parents

As a parent, few things are worse than watching your child suffer. Maybe you’re seeing them struggle in school because of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Or maybe you’re worrying over a perpetually low mood and wondering if they’re dealing with depression. 

You don’t have to sit on the sidelines and wonder what’s going on in your child’s brain. Here at Americas TMS Center, Alejandra Suzuki, MD, FAPA, offers a way to get a precise look at their brain function. It’s called quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) brain mapping. With expertise in child psychiatry, Dr. Suzuki can use QEEG technology and other resources to help your child get the support their brain needs. 

When we might recommend brain mapping for your child

You may want to consider QEEG brain mapping if:

You’re concerned about their brain development

Researchers recently noted that brain mapping with QEEG can help to “investigate…  atypical trajectories of early brain development.” In other words, this leading-edge technology gives Dr. Suzuki a way to look at how your child’s brain functions. 

She can see what parts of their brain are over- or underactive. By identifying areas that are out of balance, she can work with your family to provide your child with the right support. 

When you want to get a clear diagnosis

Your family wants answers. If you’ve been unsatisfied with diagnoses your child has received in the past, brain mapping can help. 

Though it isn’t a standalone diagnostic tool, QEEG technology can help Dr. Suzuki better understand your child’s brain. That allows her to provide a more accurate diagnosis and a more personalized treatment plan. 

Your child has ADHD

Researchers have begun to uncover how brain mapping can be used in addressing ADHD. It allows Dr. Suzuki a clearer view into your child’s brain activity and key biomarkers. The brain map then provides a useful tool in tailoring their ADHD treatment.  

What to expect with QEEG brain mapping

First, you should know that this kind of care is completely safe for your child. Brain mapping might sound like an involved, potentially painful process. It isn’t. 

In fact, it’s completely noninvasive. Dr. Suzuki maps your child’s brain activity through their scalp using specialized EEG electrodes. The process usually takes an hour or less. 

Then, Dr. Suzuki takes the results of the brain map and compares them against a database of “normal” brain activity for your child’s age. This helps her see where your child’s brain might be underperforming, overactive, or otherwise atypical. 

From there, she can tailor treatment to them. Her goal is to use the brain map to target the parts of your child’s brain that need attention. 

This is just a general overview. To discuss your child’s situation with Dr. Suzuki, schedule a visit to Americas TMS Center. She can help you decide if brain mapping is right for your family. Call our office or book an appointment online today.