is being diagnosed with increasing frequency in children, adolescents, and adults . At the same time, interest in alternative and complementary treatment methods is growing. Neurofeedback, in particular , has gained significant importance in recent years. This blog article provides a clear overview of how neurofeedback is used for ADHD and how it can be integrated into a holistic therapy.
What is neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a specialized form of biofeedback in which brain activity is measured using an EEG sensor and provided visual feedback. While traditional biofeedback monitors physiological signals such as heart rate or skin conductance, neurofeedback focuses on the brain.
The goal of neurofeedback training is to specifically stimulate or inhibit certain brain waves in order to improve the brain’s self-regulation. To do this, EEG signals are broken down into different frequency ranges. In the treatment of ADHD, the focus is often on strengthening beta activity (12–30 Hz), which is associated with concentration and attention, and reducing theta activity (4–8 Hz), which is associated with daydreaming and low alertness.
How does neurofeedback work for ADHD?
People with ADHD typically exhibit an imbalance in certain brainwave patterns. For example, theta waves, which are associated with daydreaming and a relaxed waking state, are often overactive, while beta waves, which occur during concentration and focused attention, may exhibit reduced activity. With the help of neurofeedback, those affected can work specifically and actively to consciously influence their brain activity in the desired direction, which can lead to improved concentration and emotional control.
People with ADHD often exhibit an imbalance in brainwave patterns: The slow theta waves are often overactive, while the faster beta waves, responsible for focused attention, are underactive. This is precisely where neurofeedback comes in: Through targeted training, children and adults learn to consciously regulate their brain activity, which can lead to improved concentration and emotional control.
Application of neurofeedback in therapy and occupational therapy
Neurofeedback for ADHD can be used both as an alternative to medication and as an adjunct therapy—for children and adults alike. At the beginning of ADHD treatment, neurofeedback can be used as a diagnostic tool to guide future (multimodal) therapy planning. Typically, 20 to 40 sessions are recommended, ideally two to three times per week. The exact number depends on the individual’s course and progress.
Effectiveness studies: What does research say?
Numerous studies prove the effectiveness of neurofeedback in ADHD:
- Improvements in attention, working memory and [1,3]
- Positive effects on everyday school and social life [2]
- Long-term success – even 6 to 12 months after completion of treatment [4,5,8]
In combination with medication, neurofeedback can achieve additional improvements in ADHD symptoms. Studies show, for example:
- Greater reduction in core ADHD symptoms [6,7]
- Long-term stability of therapeutic effects [8]
- Particularly good results in children with severe or very mild cognitive deficits [9]
Important success factors are:
- High session frequency
- Professional EEG analysis [10]
Conclusion: Neurofeedback as a modern therapy option for ADHD
Neurofeedback is a scientifically based, side-effect-free method that can be used for both children and adults with ADHD. By training brain activity, concentration, self-regulation, and everyday skills can be sustainably improved.
As a standalone or complementary treatment, neurofeedback is particularly valuable when a long-term, individualized solution is sought. In combination with other therapeutic modalities—such as behavioral therapy or occupational therapy—neurofeedback unfolds its full potential.
It is important that training is always carried out by qualified professionals to ensure lasting success.
