Estimated reading time: 8 minutes
Neurofeedback therapy is a powerful, science-backed approach to supporting children’s mental health. But what exactly is neurofeedback, and how does it work?
More importantly, how can it benefit children struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, or anger management and what are the different types?
What is Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback, also known as brainwave therapy, is a non-invasive way to help improve brain function. It works by placing small sensors on the scalp to monitor brain activity. This information is then shown to the patient in real-time, allowing them to learn how to control their brainwave patterns.
Through this process, many of my patients have enhanced their attention, cognitive functioning and overall emotional and behavioral self-regulation. They have also found it to be a valuable tool for addressing issues like anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders.
Different types of Neurofeedback Therapy
There are different types of neurofeedback and it is also often referred to as brainwave training.
Neurofeedback involves training individuals to regulate their brainwave patterns, such as alpha, beta, theta, or delta waves, to achieve optimal cognitive functioning.
With amplitude training, individuals learn to modulate the magnitude or intensity of their brainwave activity, targeting specific frequencies associated with different cognitive states such as focus and emotional balance.
| Neurofeedback Technique | Measure-ment | Targeted Activity | Applications | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCP Training | EEG | Slow cortical potentials (DC shifts) | ADHD, epilepsy, migraine | Non-invasive, well-researched | Requires specialized equipment |
| fMRI Neurofeedback | fMRI | Blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signals | Depression, anxiety, pain management | High spatial resolution; ability to target deep brain structures | Expensive; limited accessibility; delayed feedback due to hemodynamic response lag |
| Hemoencephalography (HEG) | Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) or passive infrared (PIR) | Cerebral blood flow and oxygenation levels | ADHD, migraines, mood disorders | Non-invasive; relatively affordable; provides real-time feedback | Indirect measure of neural activity; lower spatial resolution compared to fMRI |
| Infraslow Fluctuation (ISF) Training | EEG | Infraslow brain oscillations (<0.1 Hz) | Arousal regulation, emotional disorders | Targets foundational brain rhythms; potential for broad applications | Limited research; mechanisms not fully understood |
| NeurOptimal Neurofeedback Systems | EEG | Dynamical brain activity | Stress reduction, performance enhancement, overall well-being | User-friendly; adaptable to individual needs; non-diagnostic approach | Lacks specificity; limited empirical validation |
| sLORETA Neurofeedback | EEG with sLORETA imaging | Source-localized electrical activity | Cognitive enhancement, emotional regulation, ADHD | High spatial resolution within EEG; ability to target specific brain regions | Requires advanced technical expertise; higher cost due to equipment needs |
How Neurofeedback Helps Children with ADHD, Anxiety, Or OCD?
Different tools support different needs.
Here’s how:
- Slow Cortical Potentials (SCP)
- Helps with: impulse control, focus.
- Evidence: A 150-child RCT showed greater parent-rated ADHD symptom reduction EMG control (effect size d = 0.57) (Strehl et al., 2006).
- Example: Julia, mom to Jackson (8, ADHD), learned how his brain slowed when calm. Soon, he stopped yelling and was able to settle before homework—“Behavior is communication,” she says. Big takeaway: A calmer brain = calmer child.
- Infraslow Neurofeedback
- Helps with: core brain network regulation, emotional balance.
- Evidence: A pilot with adults showed high feasibility/safety. Another ADHD study reported 97% parental improvement ratings. (Othmer et al., 2013)
- Example: Ava (9, sensory overload) started infraslow sessions. Her nighttime meltdowns dropped from nightly to weekly. Big takeaway: Even subtle brain rhythms can create big shifts.
- HEG
- Helps with: focus, blood-flow regulation.
- Evidence: One adolescent ADHD case showed normalized QEEG and sustained attention gains after 10 sessions (Carmen, 2004).
- Example: Tina’s son, Liam (12), went from zoning out in class to participating. A school team noticed he “seemed more present.”
- NeurOptimal®
- Helps with: general self-regulation—ideal for anxiety, mood swings, sleep.
- Example: Sara (15) used NeurOptimal® to ease her nightly anxiety; she woke calmer, slept deeper.
- sLORETA
- Helps with: OCD, depression, anxiety—pinpoints brain networks in 3D.
- Expert insight: This 3D mapping helps personalize sessions to brain network imbalances
- fMRI Neurofeedback
- Helps with: deep network regulation (e.g., depression, PTSD).
- Note: Clinical but growing—best for older teens/adults in research settings.
Is Biofeedback a Type of Neurofeedback Therapy?
Although not neurofeedback, biofeedback is its cousin and incorporates various physiological measures, including heart rate variability, skin conductance, and muscle tension, to promote self-regulation and stress management.
Is Neurofeedback Safe For Kids?
Absolutely—it’s non-invasive, gentle, and often NO side effects.
What happens in a typical session:
- Start with a cozy check-in or guided breathing.
- Sensors: scalp or headband apply 5–19 small, painless sensors.
- Feedback: sounds, lights, simple games or visuals.
- Session length: 30–45 minutes, once or twice a week.
- Environment: safe, supportive, parent presence optional.
How QEEG Brain Mapping is Used with Neurofeedback Therapy?
With neurofeedback therapy, QEEG can be used for typical and complex cases to really give that roadmap for treatment.
This initial “brain snapshot” uses EEG to show where your child’s brain is under‑ or over-reactive.
- QEEG (Quantitative EEG) is like a brain GPS—it shows exactly which brain areas are overactive, underactive, or not communicating well
- This data helps create a personalized neurofeedback plan that targets your child’s unique brainwave patterns for better focus, mood, and behavior
- Ongoing “brain check-ins” track progress so we know what’s working and can adjust in real-time—no more guesswork or trial-and-error therapy
How to Get Started on Neurofeedback with Dr. Roseann
I created the BrainBehaviorReset™ Program—to help families like yours get real answers and real progress using science-backed tools like neurofeedback, brain mapping, and emotional support strategies.
Here’s how our 6-month high-touch program helps your child calm the brain and build lasting change:
✅ 1-on-1 personalized care with me and my expert team for six months—virtual or in-person in Connecticut
✅ QEEG brain mapping and regular “brain check-ins” to track what’s working
✅ Proven therapies like neurofeedback, PEMF, biofeedback, and parent coaching
✅ Gentle lifestyle adjustments and custom supplement guidance
✅ We focus first on calming the brain because until the nervous system is regulated, nothing sticks
✅ Support for kids, teens, and young adults with ADHD, anxiety, OCD, mood struggles, PANS/PANDAS, and more
✅ Real results, like fewer meltdowns, better focus, stronger emotional control and a calmer home
✅ High-touch guidance and encouragement every step of the way (you won’t ever feel alone again)
If that’s the kind of clarity and hope you’re looking for, you can apply here for the BrainBehaviorReset™ Program. Let’s calm the brain first, because healing starts there.
Parent Action Steps
FAQs
How Does Neurofeedback Work for Anxiety?
Anxious kids often have brains stuck in overdrive. Neurofeedback helps calm those racing thoughts by training the brain to shift out of stress mode. With gentle, real-time feedback, children learn to regulate their brainwaves—leading to less anxiety.
Can Neurofeedback Therapy Help with Depression?
When a child is struggling with depression, their brain can get stuck in patterns that make it hard to feel joy or motivation. Neurofeedback gently trains the brain to shift out of those stuck states.
What is QEEG and How is it Used in Neurofeedback?
A QEEG brain map shows how a child’s brain is working by measuring brainwave activity. It helps us see where the brain may be overactive or underactive. We use this map to guide neurofeedback therapy, so each child gets a plan tailored to their unique needs.
Is Neurofeedback Safe?
Neurofeedback therapy is considered safe when conducted by trained professionals in a clinical setting. It is non-invasive and does not involve any medication, making it a low-risk treatment option for individuals seeking alternatives to traditional therapies.
What is Brain Mapping Therapy?
Brain mapping therapy uses techniques like QEEG to create detailed brain activity maps. These maps help clinicians identify areas of dysregulation or dysfunction in the brain, allowing for targeted interventions such as neurofeedback to address specific cognitive or emotional issues.
What Conditions Can Neurofeedback Therapy Treat?
Neurofeedback therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, insomnia, and chronic pain. It can also help improve cognitive function, enhance sports performance, and promote overall well-being.
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in Neurofeedback who frequently is in the media:
- Living with Lyme (Podcast) Neurofeedback and biofeedback for PANS/PANDA
- The Holistic Counseling Podcast Therapist’s Integrative Tools: Neurofeedback and Biofeedback
- Helping Children Thrive Podcast Benefits of Neurofeedback for children with ADHD
Citations:
Chabot, R. J., & Serfontein, G. (1996). Quantitative electroencephalographic profiles of children with attention deficit disorder. Biological psychiatry, 40(10), 951–963. https://doi.org/10.1016/0006-3223(95)00576-5.
Coben, R., and Evans, J. (Ed.). (2011). Neurofeedback and neuromodulation techniques and applications. Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/C2009-0-64101-5.
Hurt, E., Arnold, L. E., & Lofthouse, N. (2014). Quantitative EEG neurofeedback for the treatment of pediatric attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, and epilepsy. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 23(3), 465-486. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chc.2014.02.001.
Smith, S. J. M. (2005). EEG in the diagnosis, classification, and management of patients with epilepsy. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 76(suppl_2), ii2-ii7. https://doi.org/10.1136/jnnp.2005.069245.
Always remember… “Calm Brain, Happy Family™”
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to give health advice and it is recommended to consult with a physician before beginning any new wellness regime. *The effectiveness of diagnosis and treatment vary by patient and condition. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, LLC does not guarantee certain results.
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