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Neurofeedback
for ADD/ADHD

Neurofeedback is a non-invasive technique that helps regulate brain activity, and has shown promise as an effective treatment for ADHD based on a growing body of evidence. Numerous studies have suggested that neurofeedback can lead to improvements in attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD.

 

Individuals with ADD or ADHD exhibit irregular patterns of brainwave activity, contributing to their challenges in sustaining attention and managing impulses. Neurofeedback aims to address these irregularities by providing real-time feedback to individuals about their brainwave patterns, enabling them to self-regulate and optimize their cognitive functions.

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Research suggests that neurofeedback training can enhance attention, reduce impulsivity, and improve overall cognitive functioning in individuals with ADD and ADHD. Through a process of operant conditioning, individuals learn to modify their brainwave patterns by receiving positive feedback when their brain exhibits desired states. Over time, this reinforcement can lead to sustained improvements in attention span and impulse control. Kids and teens are morely likely to engage in our neurofeedback training since our protocols are based on video games.

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Research

  • The medical journal Pediatrics found that 7- to 11-year olds made "significant gains" in improvement of ADHD symptoms and maintained those gains six months post-treatment with neurofeedback.

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  • A 2014 meta-analysis of five studies including 146 children concluded that neurofeedback "significantly improved" ADHD symptoms with teachers and parents rating the children's inattention improved by 30% and 46% respectively.

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  • The American Academy of Pediatrics has evaluated neurofeedback to be a "Level 2 - Good Support" for children with ADHD.

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  • In a meta-analysis of nearly 50 studies for ADHD going back to the 1970’s, the authors concluded that neurofeedback treatment for ADHD can be considered “Efficacious and Specific (ES)” (Level 5) with a large ES for inattention and impulsivity and a medium ES for hyperactivity.”

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  • The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) has stated that "neurofeedback is a non-pharmacologic intervention that has been shown to be effective in reducing ADHD symptoms in some studies." The AACAP also noted that "neurofeedback is a safe and well-tolerated intervention, and it may be a useful option for some children with ADHD who do not respond to or cannot tolerate medication." Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 52(2), 163-172.

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  • The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has funded research on the use of NFB for the treatment of ADHD.

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  • An AI review of 17 studies found that neurofeedback was effective in reducing ADHD symptoms in 60-80% of participants.

A word about expectations and outcomes with NFB

Neurofeedback can be a promising avenue for managing ADHD symptoms, but it's important to approach it with realistic expectations and dedication. Here's what you should keep in mind:

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  • Realistic Expectations: Understand that neurofeedback is not a magic solution. It can help improve attention, reduce impulsivity, and enhance self-regulation, but it may not completely eliminate ADHD symptoms. Set achievable goals and be patient with the process.

  • Active Participation: Success in neurofeedback depends on your active involvement. It's not a passive treatment. You must engage in the training process, stay committed, and work closely with your healthcare provider.

  • Consistency Is Key: Consistent training is essential for seeing results. Make a schedule and stick to it. Regular and ongoing sessions are more likely to lead to positive outcomes.

  • Communication: Maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. Share your progress, concerns, and any changes in your symptoms. This feedback will help tailor the neurofeedback protocol to your specific needs.

  • Lifestyle Factors: Neurofeedback is most effective when combined with a healthy lifestyle. Adequate sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management can complement the benefits of neurofeedback.

  • Complementary Strategies: Consider combining neurofeedback with other evidence-based treatments, such as behavioral therapy or medication, as recommended by your healthcare provider.

  • Individual Variability: Remember that responses to neurofeedback vary from person to person. What works for one individual may not work the same way for another. Be open to adjusting the training based on your unique needs.

  • Long-Term Commitment: Think of neurofeedback as a long-term commitment. Positive changes may take time, and maintenance sessions might be necessary to sustain the benefits. A typical course of neurofeedback for ADD is 20-50 sessions. 

  • Final Outcomes: No treatment option is 100% guaranteed. Though neurofeedback has shown efficacy in treatment, it should not be expected to completely eliminate symptoms or be a replacement for medication.

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See our Frequently Asked Questions for more information. 

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