Neurofeedback for ADHD
Evidence-based brain training that improves focus, reduces impulsivity, and creates lasting change—with or without medication.
Neurofeedback for ADHD: The Short Version
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive brain training technique that helps people with ADHD improve focus, reduce impulsivity, and build better self-regulation — without medication. It works by monitoring brainwave activity in real time and providing feedback that trains the brain to produce more efficient patterns.
- •Rated “Level 1 — Best Support” for ADHD by the American Academy of Pediatrics
- •Targets specific ADHD brainwave patterns identified by QEEG brain mapping
- •Typical protocol: 20–40 sessions over 3–6 months
- •Research shows improvements maintained at 10+ year follow-up
- •Available in-office (LA, OC, NYC, St. Louis, West Palm Beach) or remote worldwide
Why Choose Neurofeedback for ADHD?
Targets Root Cause
Neurofeedback addresses the underlying brain dysregulation that causes ADHD symptoms, not just masking them.
Research-Backed
Meta-analyses and randomized trials demonstrate significant improvements in attention and impulse control.
Lasting Results
Unlike medication effects that stop when you stop taking it, neurofeedback creates lasting brain changes.
How Neurofeedback Treats ADHD
Children and adults with ADHD typically show distinct patterns in their brain activity. Common findings include:
- Excess theta waves in frontal regions (associated with daydreaming and inattention)
- Reduced beta activity (associated with underarousal and difficulty focusing)
- Slowed alpha peak frequency (affects processing speed and focus)
A QEEG brain map identifies your specific patterns. Based on your map, we design a personalized neurofeedback protocol that trains your brain toward healthier patterns. During sessions, you receive real-time feedback when your brain produces the desired activity—teaching it to self-regulate.
The Research on Neurofeedback for ADHD
Decades of research support neurofeedback as an effective intervention for attention and impulse control.
Neurofeedback Training for Executive Function in ADHD Children: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis ↗
Multiple research groups, 17 RCTs pooled. (2025)
Meta-analysis of 17 RCTs (939 participants) found significant improvements in inhibitory control (p<0.0001) and working memory (p<0.05). Benefits persisted at follow-up. Training duration matters: sessions exceeding 1,260 minutes were significantly more effective. Published in Scientific Reports.
Efficacy of Neurofeedback Treatment in ADHD: Effects on Inattention, Impulsivity and Hyperactivity ↗
Arns M., de Ridder S., Strehl U., Breteler M., & Coenen A. (2009)
Landmark meta-analysis: large effect sizes for inattention and impulsivity, medium for hyperactivity. Based on these findings, neurofeedback was rated "Efficacious and Specific" (Level 5) for ADHD by AAPB/ISNR guidelines. This paper established neurofeedback as a legitimate, evidence-based ADHD intervention.
Sustained Effects of Neurofeedback in ADHD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis ↗
Van Doren J., Arns M., Heinrich H., Vollebregt M.A., Strehl U., & Loo S.K. (2019)
Systematic review and meta-analysis specifically examining whether neurofeedback improvements last. Found sustained effects on inattention and impulsivity at follow-up assessments months after training ended. This is the key differentiator from medication — effects persist because the brain has learned new patterns.
Neurofeedback of Slow Cortical Potentials: A Multicenter Randomized Double-Blind Trial ↗
Strehl U., Aggensteiner P., Wachtlin D., et al. (2017)
First large-scale double-blind placebo-controlled trial: 52% of the neurofeedback group showed reduced ADHD symptoms vs 35% in placebo. This study addressed the biggest criticism of neurofeedback research — that improvements might just be placebo effects. They're not.
The Effects of QEEG-Informed Neurofeedback in ADHD: An Open-Label Pilot Study ↗
Arns M., Drinkenburg W., & Kenemans J.L. (2012)
QEEG-informed neurofeedback showed significant improvements in inattentiveness, impulsivity, and comorbid depression. The brain-map-guided approach improved outcome prediction — knowing which brain pattern to target before training starts makes the protocol more efficient and effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is neurofeedback for ADHD?
Neurofeedback is a non-invasive brain training technique that uses real-time EEG monitoring to help the brain learn better self-regulation. During sessions, individuals receive visual or auditory feedback when their brain produces desired patterns, gradually training the brain to maintain focus and reduce impulsivity without medication.
How effective is neurofeedback for ADHD?
Multiple meta-analyses show neurofeedback produces clinically meaningful improvements in ADHD symptoms, particularly for inattention and impulsivity. A landmark 2017 multicenter randomized trial found 52% of children receiving neurofeedback showed reduced ADHD core symptoms compared to 35% in the placebo group.
Can neurofeedback replace ADHD medication?
Neurofeedback can be used alone or alongside medication. Research shows some patients reduce their medication dependency after neurofeedback training. The best approach depends on your individual brain map and symptoms.
Is neurofeedback safe for children with ADHD?
Yes, neurofeedback is non-invasive and has no known negative side effects. Children as young as 6-7 can benefit. Unlike medication, there are no systemic effects on appetite, sleep, or growth.
Get Started with a Free Consultation
Learn how QEEG-guided neurofeedback can help you or your child with ADHD
Deep Dives from Dr. Hill
In-depth articles on the neuroscience behind attention and focus