Elena Amouzandeh

LORETA is a non-invasive EEG-based method that, by analyzing the brain’s electrical activity, helps estimate the activity of different brain regions. In this approach, no substance is introduced into the body, and unlike brain stimulation methods, electrical current is not applied directly to the brain. In LORETA-based neurofeedback, the goal is to train and regulate brain activity through EEG feedback. In its normal use, it does not produce a serious or persistent adverse effect; however, like any therapeutic process, some individuals may experience temporary reactions at the beginning of sessions, such as fatigue, mild headaches, a feeling of pressure, temporary changes in sleep, or feeling unwell. These issues are usually manageable by assessing the individual’s condition and adjusting the protocol appropriately. It is important to note that LORETA should be carried out for each person based on an initial assessment and using a protocol tailored to their needs. If any unusual or persistent reactions occur, the course of sessions must be reviewed by a specialist and, if necessary, modified or discontinued. Therefore, LORETA cannot be presented as a method that is “completely without the possibility of side effects,” but it is non-invasive. By following the principles of assessment, selecting an appropriate protocol, and providing specialist supervision, the likelihood of problems can be reduced.

tDCS, or transcranial direct current stimulation, is a non-invasive brain stimulation method that modulates the activity of specific brain regions using very weak electrical current. When used with an appropriate protocol, standard intensity and duration, and correct equipment, tDCS has generally been found to be tolerable in various studies. Based on available evidence, its possible side effects in most cases are mild and temporary. The most common possible side effects include: * Tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation at the electrode site * Itching or mild burning of the skin * Temporary skin redness * Discomfort at the electrode placement site * Mild headache * Feeling tired or drowsy after the session These symptoms are usually short-lived and resolve after the stimulation ends. In rare cases—especially if the device is used improperly or if the electrode does not make proper contact with the skin—significant skin irritation or skin injury may occur. For this reason, following safety principles, proper skin preparation, correct use of the electrodes, and precise adjustment of stimulation parameters are of great importance. In children and adolescents as well, available studies have generally reported mild and transient side effects; however, the body of safety evidence in this group is still more limited than in adults. Therefore, patient selection, assessment of individual conditions, and implementing a protocol appropriate to age and situation are especially important. Overall, tDCS cannot be considered completely free of side effects; however, within standard protocols and by observing safety principles, the reported side effects are mainly mild and temporary. If any unusual or persistent symptoms occur, the sessions should be stopped and the individual’s condition should be evaluated by a specialist.

The number of sessions is not the same for all individuals and is determined based on the type of disorder, the severity of symptoms, the person’s circumstances, and their response to treatment. 🧠 LORETA Neurofeedback Typically, a treatment course consists of about 10 to 30 sessions, and throughout the treatment process, the individual’s progress is evaluated. Based on the client’s response, the number and spacing of sessions may change. ⚡ tDCS In many treatment protocols, sessions are performed regularly and consecutively, and a course of about 10 to 30 sessions is usually considered; however, the exact number of sessions depends on the type of disorder and the protocol used. 🔹 In some individuals, a combination of LORETA and tDCS may be used within a single treatment plan. 🔹 The number of sessions, the interval between sessions, and the need for maintenance sessions after the initial assessment and review of treatment progress are determined. The goal is to identify the lowest effective number of sessions appropriate for each person—not a fixed number for everyone.

Brain mapping or QEEG is a method for examining and recording the brain’s electrical activity, which helps us better understand brain activity patterns and evaluate its function.

Brain mapping, or QEEG, helps us more precisely examine patterns of the brain’s electrical activity and identify strengths and different patterns of brain functioning. In addition to clinical assessments and psychological tests, this method can help evaluate issues such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and some cognitive problems like poor concentration and memory. Brain mapping can also be used to plan and personalize neurotherapy approaches such as neurofeedback and certain brain stimulation protocols. Brain mapping alone does not identify a definitive diagnosis of any disorder; rather, it is an auxiliary tool for specialized assessment and choosing the appropriate treatment path.