MeRT (Magnetic eResonance Therapy) begins with a qEEG.  What is a qEEG?  A qEEG (quantitative electroencephalogram, often shortened to just EEG ) is a test to record electrical activity in the brain.  It is administered by applying a cap on the scalp, then adhering electrodes to the cap.  Generally, the patient keeps their eyes closed and remains fairly still for a period up to 10 minutes under the direction of the technician administering the test.  EEGs are necessary because they allow the doctor to personalize treatment.  A simple analogy:  if you go into a shoe store to buy a pair of shoes, the store needs more information than “a pair of shoes”, or even a “pair of men’s shoes”.  Size, width, occasion, etc…all necessary to obtain the right pair of shoes.

EEGs also provide vital information about treatment progress.  During a 6-week treatment course, a patient receives 4 EEGs.  Without exception.  And, at our clinic, we see patients as young as 3 or 4 years old.  That might sound impossible, but we have several years of experience, and tricks up our sleeves, and find that many children acclimate to the treatment within a few weeks.  Parents are always in the room with patients during both EEGs and treatment, for the safety and comfort of everyone.

Here are just a few of the ways that we work together to help prepare children for treatment:

• A social story about EEG’s and a separate story about treatment. These have been prepared by a behaviorist and can be discussed with a therapist that works with the child, read at night, and practiced on a doll or stuffed animal.
• Tour the clinic and meet the staff.
• Prepare a list of preferred shows to watch.
• Discuss possible comfort items such as blankets or stuffed animals.
• Prepare a list of preferred “treats” to receive after EEGs and treatment.
• Fill out an information sheet and discuss possible maladaptive behaviors and strategies to alleviate them for technicians.
• Discuss using a car seat, highchair, or one of our chairs.

As with anything in life, the more information and preparation, the better.