Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of children and adults worldwide. While ADHD symptoms can vary dramatically between individuals, there are three main subtypes of ADHD:
Research shows that between 5 to 10% of children have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. While some children “grow out of” ADHD symptoms, many continue to struggle with ADHD symptoms, even as adults. Discover more about ADHD.
Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback, is a non-invasive, drug-free therapy that helps an individual's brain to function more efficiently. Neurofeedback enables self-regulation of brain function through real-time displays of brain activity. Neurofeedback can lead to improved focus, reduced impulsivity, and enhanced cognitive performance in individuals with ADHD. Neurofeedback offers a cutting-edge way for individuals to reduce ADHD symptoms and to live more focused lives.
Neurofeedback is drug-free, offering a natural alternative to medication-based treatment for ADHD. This is especially significant for children with ADHD, where some stimulant medication may have adverse effects on their growth.
Neurofeedback is significantly less-likely to have side effects or dependency, offering a compelling and drug-free alternative for individuals to manage their ADHD symptoms.
As many as 10-30% of children do not respond to stimulant-based medications for ADHD. Because neurofeedback is personalised and tailored to the individual's unique brainwave patterns and needs, it can be more effective in treating “stimulant-resistant” ADHD symptoms.
Neurofeedback is painless and non-invasive, making it suitable for children (over eight years old) and adults struggling with symptoms of ADHD. Discover more about the Neurofeedback treatment process.
Unlike pharmacological interventions, which rely on an individual continually taking medication, Neurofeedback for ADHD can continue to provide benefits long after treatment. Research has shown that the benefits of neurofeedback can provide sustained improvements in attention, behaviour, and cognitive function.
Neurofeedback has continued to gain support as an alternative treatment for ADHD in recent years1. The American Academy of Paediatrics now lists neurofeedback as an evidence-based treatment for ADHD.
In patients with ADHD symptoms, constant observation of altered brain activation is observed during an EEG (and other types of neurological imaging). Neurofeedback, as a type of biofeedback, uses the brain's neuroplasticity to encourage it to self-regulate towards a normal brain activation pattern.
Neurofeedback has been documented to lead to significant reductions in ADHD core symptoms and has been gaining increased support in the treatment of ADHD1,2. Importantly, these results have been consistent across a range of studies2. Within academia, neurofeedback is becoming an accepted mode of treatment3. Excitingly, research supports neurofeedback as being more than just effective – it appears to be long-lasting, especially compared to non-active control methods4. Studies have shown that neurofeedback is similar in effectiveness to active control methods, such as medications, but its changes last significantly longer3.
Before commencing the treatment sessions, a full QEEG assessment is conducted to determine what are the drivers for the ADHD profile. There are five brain patterns commonly associated with ADHD. Once the problem profile is identified, targeted treatment can occur during the session.
During each neurofeedback training session, small sensors are placed on the client’s scalp to monitor their brainwave activity. These sensors are placed in specific areas that are identified as likely to be causing ADHD symptoms. The sensors monitor the brainwave patterns in real-time, so the client is provided feedback on when the brain is on task or in the unhelpful zone. This encourages the brain to adjust to a healthier way of operating.
Through consistent practice, individuals can optimise their brainwave activity patterns, shifting away from an “ADHD” state to a “focus” state. Regular monitoring and adjustments are made to the training plan to ensure optimal progress and lasting results.
At Mindstate Psychology, we are committed to providing the highest quality of care in neurofeedback therapy. Our experienced professionals use state-of-the-art technology and proven evidence-based practices to deliver effective and personalised treatment plans. We believe in empowering individuals to take control of their ADHD symptoms and achieve their full potential.
It is difficult to predict how many treatment sessions are required. Typically, we expect to see improvement at 20-40 sessions, although this can vary depending on several individual factors. Some individuals may see improvement as early as ten sessions.
No, there are a number of different treatment options for ADHD including stimulants and other medication and psychological therapy. Depending on your circumstances, we may recommend additional treatment options for you to peruse in conjunction with neurofeedback.
We encourage you to explore the various options available and choose the one that best suits your circumstances.
There are no simple answers. Medication can offer quicker results, while neurofeedback may have longer-term benefits. The early research suggests that neurofeedback can be an effective alternative to medication-based treatments. However, further research is required to fully understand the strengths and weaknesses of neurofeedback compared to other, established treatments for ADHD.
Neurofeedback does not work for everyone and like medication, the benefit varies depending on the individual.
No, neither neurofeedback nor Quantitative Electroencephalography constitutes a formal diagnosis of ADHD. While these processes may uncover patterns of brain activation consistent with ADHD, individuals still require a formal diagnosis from a paediatrician or psychiatrist for medication, NDIS, or other programmes that require diagnosed conditions.
If you are seeking a formal diagnosis, an ADHD Assessment may be helpful and can be used to assist in gaining a diagnosis.
Unfortunately, Neurofeedback is not available for Medicare rebates. While some private health insurers may cover parts of the neurofeedback process, this varies dramatically between funds. You should check with your insurer directly to see what they cover.
We offer both in-person and online telehealth sessions for our clients, ensuring you can get the assistance you need regardless of your circumstances. Telehealth counselling is equally as effective as in person counselling.
