ADHD

Neurofeedback for ADHD - evidence-based and sustainable

Who is Neuroflex suitable for?
When symptoms of ADHD inhibit quality of life or stamina – with or without a diagnosis.

Do you know that?
ADHD not only affects behavior, but often the entire family environment. Homework becomes a test of patience, social relationships are strained and constant restlessness leads to exhaustion. Neurofeedback offers a gentle and effective way of dealing with these challenges.

What is neurofeedback?
A scientifically based method for improving concentration and self-regulation.

How does neurofeedback help with ADHD?
ADHD is often characterized by altered regulation at the neurological level. Neurofeedback specifically promotes those activity patterns that are associated with focus and self-control. At Neuroflex, the training is carried out in accordance with the S3 guidelines of the German Psychiatric Association and is suitable for children and adolescents as well as adults.

When will I notice something?
Neurofeedback makes the construct of “attention” tangible. Even in the initiation phase, the feeling of deliberately influencing the feedback can arise. When the movie goes dark, people with ADHD or similar symptoms produce more theta. The aim is to reduce this frequency and produce beta instead. The ratio of theta to beta is usually already significantly reduced after 15 training sessions.

What is Neuroflex’s position on medication?
Neurofeedback and behavioral therapy can be supported with the help of medication. We advocate a multi-modal therapeutic approach with medication, behavioral therapy and biofeedback-neurofeedback.

What makes Neuroflex special?
We work according to the S3 guideline of the German Psychiatric Association. Based on our experience of hundreds of patients with ADHD, we carry out biomarker tests (qEEGs) for psychiatric practices when ADHD is suspected.

Course of the training

Start - initial consultation, trial training, qEEG

The process begins with a discussion to clarify the goals. This is followed by an anamnesis with qualitative EEG measurement (qEEG). An individual training protocol is created on this basis.

Phase 1 - Initial phase

The first 15 training sessions are used to test whether neurofeedback has measurable effects. The brainwave changes are statistically evaluated. With daily training, this phase is often completed after two to three weeks.

Phase 2 - Deepening phase

If there is clear evidence of effectiveness, the learning process is intensified in a targeted manner. This phase usually lasts 6-9 months - depending on the individual learning curve and neuroplasticity. The aim is to stabilize the desired brain activity patterns.

Phase 3 - Transfer phase

To ensure that the successes remain noticeable in everyday life, transfer exercises and coaching videos support the sustainable anchoring of the effects - for more control and focus.

Scientific studies on ADHD and neurofeedback

Objective: Targeted training of EEG activity is intended to regulate neurophysiological imbalances associated with ADHD – such as an increased theta/beta ratio or a lack of sensorimotor rhythm activity (SMR).

Basic assumption: Improved cortical self-regulation can help to reduce symptoms such as distractibility, motor restlessness and impulsivity.

Protocol variants: Theta/beta training, SMR training and SCP training (training of slow cortical potentials) are commonly used. Combinations and individualized protocols are also used.

Main results and trends

Effectiveness: Neurofeedback can effectively reduce ADHD symptoms – particularly in the areas of attention and self-regulation.

Sustainability: Several studies have demonstrated the effects even months after completing the training.
Comparison with medication: The effects are somewhat less pronounced than with stimulants, but they are sustainable and free of side effects.

Combinability: Particularly effective in combination with behavioral therapy or educational measures.

Study situation: Relatively well documented, with a growing number of methodologically high-quality RCTs – especially for theta/beta and SCP protocols.

Important studies and reviews

Arns, M., Heinrich, H., & Strehl, U. (2014). Evaluation of neurofeedback in ADHD: The long and winding road.

Journal: Biological Psychology, 95, 108-115
Content: Meta-analysis of more than 15 randomized studies on NF in ADHD.
Result: Consistent medium to high effect sizes in the area of attention, moderate effects on impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Gevensleben et al. (2009). Is neurofeedback an efficacious treatment for ADHD? A randomized controlled clinical trial.

Journal: Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 50(7), 780-789
Content: One of the most influential RCTs with school-age children.
Result: Significant improvements in attention and self-regulation, stable over 6 months follow-up.

Strehl et al. (2017). Neurofeedback of slow cortical potentials in children with ADHD: A multicenter randomized trial controlling for unspecific effects.

Journal: Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 11, 135
Content: Large multicenter RCT with SCP protocol.
Result: Improvements in core ADHD symptoms, still stable after six months.

Lofthouse et al. (2012). A review of neurofeedback treatment for pediatric ADHD.

Journal: Journal of Attention Disorders, 16(5), 351-372
Content: Critical review with emphasis on study quality and clinical implementation.
Result: NF is rated as promising, but the need for further studies with active control groups is pointed out.

Van Doren et al. (2019). Sustained effects of neurofeedback in ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Journal: European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 28(3), 293-305
Content: Meta-analysis with focus on long-term effects.
Result: Effects on attention persist over 6-12 months; long-term efficacy comparable to medication.

Do you have any questions? I am here for you.

Wolfgang Maier

MA in Special Education HfH
MAS in Neuropsychology UZH

Wolfgang Maier

MA in Special Education HfH
MAS in Neuropsychology UZH

Areas of application of neurofeedback

Conclusion

Neurofeedback is now considered one of the best-researched non-drug methods for ADHD:

Clear evidence of efficacy for core symptoms, especially attention and impulse control.
Long-term stability of the effects, especially with regular use.

Overall, neurofeedback is a sensible, sustainable supplement or alternative to drug treatment – especially for families who want to avoid side effects or are looking for long-term changes.