Neurofeedback for ADHD: Harnessing Brain Waves, Helping You Focus (Part 1)
An Introduction to Neurofeedback
At Clarity Integrative Psychiatry, we work with many individuals seeking effective, drug-free approaches to improve focus, memory, and mental clarity. One of the most promising tools in our clinical toolkit is neurofeedback (NFB)—a powerful, non-invasive method for helping the brain function more efficiently.
Although neurofeedback can be used for a variety of conditions, the most robust scientific evidence supports its use in ADHD. Because this is such a rich and important topic, we’re sharing it as a 3-part blog series. In this first post, we’ll provide a broad overview. In future installments, we’ll cover:
The main types of neurofeedback and where treatment can take place
What to expect during a typical neurofeedback session
What Are Brainwaves?
Your brain cells communicate using tiny electrical signals, which create rhythmic patterns called brainwaves. These wave patterns change based on your mental state:
Faster waves (like beta) are linked to focus, thinking, and alertness
Slower waves (like theta) are more common during daydreaming or drowsiness
In people with ADHD, this balance is often off—many have too much theta and too little beta, which can make it harder to focus, sit still, or complete tasks. Neurofeedback helps the brain rebalance these rhythms naturally.
What Is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a real-time brain training technique. Using EEG sensors placed on your scalp, it monitors brainwave activity and gives you instant feedback—often through music, games, or video. Nothing goes into your brain; it’s completely non-invasive.
Here’s what a brief description of a what a typical NFB session might look like (a more detailed explanation will be provided in a future blog post):
Sensors detect your brainwave activity while you relax and watch a screen.
When your brain produces healthier patterns (like more focus or calm), the system “rewards” it—perhaps by making a movie play more clearly or music sound better.
Over time, this reinforcement helps your brain learn to shift into more balanced states on its own.
Think of it as physical therapy for the brain. With enough sessions, the brain begins to “rewire” itself, which may reduce symptoms like poor focus, distractibility, and difficulty starting tasks.
A Brief History of Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback isn’t new. In the 1960s, neuroscientist Dr. Barry Sterman discovered that cats trained to increase a specific brainwave—called sensorimotor rhythm (SMR)—became more resistant to seizures. This opened the door to using EEG feedback in humans.
Later, researchers like Dr. Joel Lubar applied these techniques to children with ADHD, showing promising results. By the 1990s and 2000s, technology improved, and neurofeedback became more accessible in private practices—and more recently, in home-based formats as well.
What Does the Science Say?
Research on neurofeedback for ADHD spans decades, and the findings are encouraging:
Improved attention: Many children and adults show better focus and reduced distractibility
Less impulsivity and hyperactivity: In kids, behavioral improvements are often noticed by parents and teachers
Long-lasting results: Gains can last for months or even years after training—unlike medications, which only work while taken
Comparable to medication in some studies—especially with 30 or more sessions
The American Academy of Pediatrics ranks neurofeedback as a Level 1 “Best Support” treatment for ADHD in children—on par with stimulant medications and behavioral therapy.
Why People Choose Neurofeedback
People are drawn to neurofeedback because it offers several unique benefits:
Drug-free: No medication side effects like appetite loss or sleep problems
Addresses root issues: Helps retrain the brain’s ability to self-regulate, rather than just covering up symptoms
Safe and natural: Decades of research show a strong safety profile
Can be combined: Works well alongside other treatments like therapy, coaching, or even medication if needed
Other Practical Considerations
It’s a commitment: Neurofeedback usually works best with 2+ sessions per week over several months
Not an overnight fix: Like building muscle at the gym, it takes repetition and consistency to see results
Quality matters: Results depend on working with a trained provider and using individualized protocols
The Bottom Line
Neurofeedback is a safe, natural, and evidence-based option for managing ADHD. It teaches the brain to function more effectively—improving focus, mood, and behavior in a lasting way.
If you’re looking for a long-term, drug-free strategy for you or your child, neurofeedback may be a powerful and personalized path forward. At Clarity Integrative Psychiatry, we’re here to help you explore whether this approach is right for you and, if so, provide personalized guidance on high-quality options based upon your specific situation, whether that would be an at-home device or referral to a dedicated NFB professional in your area.
Up Next: In Part two of this three-part series, we’ll explore the main types of NFB and where treatment can take place—from clinical offices to home settings.
Are you interested in whether this could be a good fit for you? Contact us today to learn more.
