Estimated reading time: 19 minutes
Many parents come to me exhausted. Despite trying everything, their child is still stuck in meltdown mode, battling focus, big emotions, or poor sleep. That’s exactly where neurofeedback makes a difference.
In my years of using neurofeedback, I’ve watched kids go from fidgety and distracted to calm, focused, and connected.
With the right support, the brain can learn to self-regulate—even during big triggers.
How Does Dysregulation Affect the Nervous System?
When your child melts down over brushing teeth or gives up after one math problem, it’s not about willpower—it’s about a nervous system stuck in overdrive.
What the Nervous System Does
The central nervous system (brain + spinal cord) is your child’s mission control. It regulates:
- Emotions and behavior
- Focus and memory
- Movement and coordination
- Sensory input (sound, touch, sight)
When regulated, everything flows—transitions are smoother, sleep improves, and tasks feel manageable.
When dysregulated? Even eating or playing can feel overwhelming.
What Disrupts Regulation
- Environmental Stressors
- Chronic stress
- Poor sleep or nutrition
- Toxins and trauma
These overload the brain, keeping it in survival mode (fight, flight, freeze).
- Genetic Sensitivities
Some kids are wired to be more reactive. This can show up as:- ADHD
- Anxiety or depression
- Learning struggles or autism traits
The Bottom Line – This isn’t “bad behavior”—it’s a dysregulated brain.And while we can’t change genetics, we can teach the brain to regulate—where true healing begins.
How Does Neurofeedback Support a Dysregulated Nervous System?
The brain runs on signals between billions of cells, helping your child think, feel, and respond.
When regions like the frontal lobe aren’t in sync, focus and emotions become harder to manage.
What looks like misbehavior is often a dysregulated brain. That’s why we calm the brain first.
Neurofeedback helps it self-correct—like a GPS rerouting when off track.
How Neurofeedback Supports Real Brain Change
- Guides the Brain Toward Healthier Patterns
- Encourages more balanced brainwave activity in real time
- Teaches the brain to pause, shift, and recover from stress
- Helps reduce chronic fight, flight, or freeze responses
- Builds Self-Regulation Over Time
- Strengthens the brain’s ability to stay calm—even outside of sessions
- Promotes associative learning, where the brain begins to maintain calm on its own
- Smooths emotional highs and lows
- Strengthens Communication Between Brain Regions
- Boosts integration between the left and right hemispheres through the corpus callosum
- Enhances coordination, emotional processing, and sustained attention
- Restores Vital Brain Functions After Injury or Disruption
Helps regulate essential processes like:- Body temperature
- Cerebrospinal fluid production, which cushions the brain and spinal cord
- Supports recovery from:
- Brain injuries
- Tumor removal
- Developmental delays
- Restores Vital Brain Functions After Injury or Disruption
When the brain learns how to regulate itself, everything changes:
- Focus improves
- Moods stabilize
- Sleep gets deeper
- Meltdowns decrease
- And your child feels more like themselves again
This isn’t a band-aid. It’s lasting, science-backed change—because when we calm the brain first, everything else follows.
How Are Brainwaves Measured and Why Does It Matter?
Every thought, feeling, or action? It all begins with a spark inside the brain.
Your child’s brain has billions of neurons, and when they send messages, they fire tiny bursts of electricity. Multiply that by millions at once—and you get measurable brainwaves.
We measure those patterns using an EEG (electroencephalogram)—a completely safe, painless tool that uses small sensors on the scalp.
This gentle process lets us see the brain in action—no guessing. Just real-time data showing where things are calm, overstimulated, or underactive.
We all have the same basic types of brainwaves, yet the balance and location of those waves can look very different from one child to another:
- Delta – deep sleep and restoration
- Theta – daydreamy, creative, but too much = zoning out
- Alpha – relaxed but alert
- Beta – focused and active thinking
These patterns decode the brain’s messages—because behavior is communication, and brainwaves give us the translation key.
For example, many kids with ADHD often have too many slow theta waves and too few fast beta waves in the frontal lobes—leaving them foggy, distracted, or “bored” during tasks they don’t enjoy.
This is where neurofeedback steps in—not as a quick fix but as a powerful guide. It nudges the brain toward better balance by reinforcing calm, focused activity.
When we calm the brain first, everything else follows.
What Are the Applications and Benefits of Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback does a lot more than just calm the brain—it teaches it how to stay calm. That’s the key to helping kids (and adults) regulate their nervous systems and feel better from the inside out.
It’s also used to support kids struggling with:
- ADHD
- Autism
- Anxiety
- Mood issues
- PANS/PANDAS
- Lyme disease
- Head injuries
- Chronic pain
This safe, science-backed method is used every day to support mental and physical health. For many families, it’s been a game changer.
1. Neurofeedback for ADHD
ADHD isn’t just about attention—it’s a brain that’s working overtime without direction.
Neurofeedback helps kids and teens:
- Improve focus and concentration
- Reduce hyperactivity
- Strengthen executive functioning
It gently trains the brain to boost beta wave activity—the type tied to focus and follow-through. Over time, attention improves, and that internal motor starts to slow down in all the right ways.
2. Neurofeedback for Anxiety and Depression
When a child is stuck in a loop of worry or sadness, their nervous system is firing danger signals nonstop.
Neurofeedback helps ease that by shifting brainwave patterns associated with:
- Chronic stress
- Panic
- Low mood or irritability
It’s like helping their brain find the brakes again. Over time, emotions feel less overwhelming, and the world becomes a little less loud (Hammond, 2005).
3. Neurofeedback for Sleep and Insomnia
Poor sleep? You’re not alone—and neither is your child.
Neurofeedback can retrain the brain to drift into deeper, more restorative sleep by:
- Encouraging delta waves (think: deep slumber)
- Quieting high beta waves that scream “I can’t shut off my brain!”
- Improving overall sleep patterns
Whether it’s trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, this is a gentle, non-medicated solution that helps bodies and minds truly rest (Halson, 2017).
4. Neurofeedback for Epilepsy
Seizures are terrifying—for both kids and parents. While not a cure, neurofeedback shows promise in helping to:
- Reduce seizure frequency
- Soften the intensity
- Offer a safe add-on or alternative to meds
Research continues to grow, but we’re seeing hopeful changes (Marchi et al., 2024). Like I always say, calm the brain first, everything follows.
5. Neurofeedback for PTSD and Trauma
Trauma and PTSD dysregulate the nervous system. Neurofeedback helps by:
- Calming the brain
- Reducing hyperarousal
- Supporting emotional regulation and resilience
This makes it a valuable tool in trauma recovery (Askovic et al., 2023).
6. Neurofeedback for Peak Performance
Neurofeedback isn’t just for clinical conditions. It’s also used by:
- Athletes
- Executives
- Students and creatives
Benefits include:
- Sharper focus and concentration
- Faster mental processing
- Better emotional control under stress
- Improved sleep and recovery
It helps high performers maintain a calm, alert brain state to meet high demands (Gong et al., 2021).
7. Neurofeedback for Brain Health and Function
Neurofeedback helps your child move, think, heal and regulate with more ease.
Fine motor skills like writing or catching a ball rely on healthy brain connections.
Neurofeedback helps by:
- Activating the prefrontal cortex (movement planning)
- Engaging the occipital lobe (visual-motor cues)
- Coordinating with the parietal lobe (sensory-motor integration)
It also boosts:
- Signal efficiency and glial cell function
- Blood flow to support brain performance
What Happens During a Neurofeedback Process?
Step 1: Brain Mapping with a QEEG
We begin with a QEEG brain map to get a clear, detailed snapshot of how your child’s brain is functioning.
- Your child wears a soft cap with tiny sensors—nothing invasive—to gently record their brainwave activity.
- Then we analyze the data and compare it to what we typically see in healthy, regulated brains for their age.
- We’re looking for areas that are:
- Too fast (overactive),
- Too slow (underactive), or
- Not syncing well with other regions.
This map shows us what’s happening beneath the surface—especially in areas linked to focus, mood, anxiety, and regulation.
Because as I always say, “behavior is communication.” When we listen to the brain, we understand what our children are really trying to tell us.
Step 2: Personalized Brain Training Plan
Using the brain map as our guide, I create a custom neurofeedback protocol tailored to your child’s unique needs.
Our goal is to:
- Calm the overactive areas
- Wake up the underactive ones
- Improve flexibility and regulation across the brain
Most children come in for:
- 2 to 3 sessions per week
- 20 to 100+ sessions, depending on how their brain responds
Just like going to the gym strengthens muscles, brain training builds lasting self-regulation. And when the brain becomes more efficient, kids feel calmer, more focused, and more like themselves.
Step 3: Tracking Progress and Adjusting as We Go
Neurofeedback isn’t a one-and-done process—it’s a journey of rewiring and healing. And we walk it with you every step of the way.
We use a 3-part system to track progress:
- Repeat QEEGs at regular intervals to monitor deep brain changes
- Session data to measure real-time shifts in brain activity
- Symptom checklists to track what you’re seeing at home—in focus, behavior, sleep, and emotional control
We’re not guessing—we’re adjusting based on your child’s unique rhythm. Because when we calm the brain first, everything else—learning, behavior, and healing—can finally follow.
Does Neurofeedback Control the Brain?
One of the biggest myths about neurofeedback is that it manipulates or controls the brain. In reality, it teaches the brain to regulate itself by showing it what it’s doing in real time.
It’s not something done to the brain—it’s a learning process. With consistent feedback, the brain starts to strengthen healthier patterns on its own.
When the brain learns to self-regulate, everything starts to shift—mood, focus, sleep, and more. Because lasting change happens from the inside out.
How Does Neurofeedback Work Differently From Medication?
Here’s what I love most about neurofeedback: the gains stick. In a study by Gani (2009), children showed lasting improvements in attention and behavior for up to two years after completing neurofeedback therapy.
That’s not just managing symptoms. That’s real brain change.
| Neurofeedback | Medication |
|---|---|
| Teaches the brain how to self-regulate | Temporarily quiets symptoms without addressing the root cause |
| Calms the central nervous system at its source | Often needs adjustments as the body adapts |
| Reinforces healthy brainwave patterns for lasting change | Doesn’t teach the brain how to stay regulated on its own |
| Supports focus, mood, and sleep—naturally | Can come with short- or long-term side effects |
| Doesn’t rely on external substances to “manage” symptoms | May lose effectiveness as tolerance builds |
Is Neurofeedback Safer Than Medication?
| Why Neurofeedback Is Safer | What to Know About Medication |
|---|---|
| Non-invasive and drug-free | 1 in 3 hospitalizations involve adverse drug reactions |
| Minimal side effects (e.g., temporary fatigue or overstimulation) | Side effects can impact sleep, appetite, and mood |
| Helps the brain learn—not override—its natural rhythms | Long-term effects on the developing brain remain unclear (Jensen et al., 2007) |
| No risk of dependence or withdrawal | May lead to dependency or tolerance over time |
| Empowers the brain to heal from the inside out | Often requires trial and error to find the “right” fit |
Real-Life Success Stories: What Happens When the Brain Finds Calm
As a Biofeedback Certification International Alliance (BCIA)-certified provider, I’ve helped hundreds of children, teens, and adults regulate their nervous systems with neurofeedback and behavioral therapy.
Here are just a few powerful transformations:
- Coloring for the first time: A young child finally had the focus and calm to sit and complete a picture.
- Board game breakthrough: After 12 sessions, a 9-year-old played his first board game—something his family never thought possible.
- Relief after 12 medications: An adult who struggled for years with focus found clarity and calm—without medication.
How We Support Healing
- BrainBehaviorReset™ Program: Our exclusive 1-on-1 program blends neurofeedback, behavioral therapy, and parent coaching for lasting change.
- Parent support included: We guide you every step of the way, so you’re not navigating this alone.
- Tailored for complex needs: From anxiety to attention and mood issues, we help kids who’ve been stuck for far too long.
When the brain learns to self-regulate, even small shifts can lead to life-changing results. Because when we calm the brain first, everything else follows.
What are the Side Effects of Neurofeedback?
Neurofeedback is a safe, non-invasive therapy. As the brain begins to learn and shift into healthier patterns, some temporary effects can show up—but they’re typically mild and short-lived.
If the brain is overstimulated, you may notice:
- Hyperactivity
- Headaches
- Irritability
If the brain is understimulated, your child might feel:
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
These effects are rare and usually resolve quickly with a simple protocol adjustment.
Neurofeedback doesn’t force the brain—it teaches it. And when it’s done under the care of a skilled neurofeedback provider, your child’s brain learns to regulate in a safe and supportive way.
No matter where you are in the world, you can work with me and my incredible team of neurofeedback specialists—either from the comfort of your home with our at-home neurofeedback kit or in person through one-on-one sessions at our center.
Parent Action Steps
FAQs
What is neurofeedback therapy?
Neurofeedback therapy, a type of brain wave therapy, utilizes EEG neurofeedback to help individuals learn to regulate their brain activity for better function and mental health.
How does neurofeedback training work?
Neurofeedback training works by allowing individuals to respond to real-time feedback based on their EEG, facilitating the learning of self-regulation of brain waves.
Can I find a neurofeedback therapist near me?
Yes, you can find a neurofeedback therapist near you by searching professional directories or contacting local neurotherapy treatment centers.
Is neurofeedback safe for children and adults?
Neurofeedback is generally safe for both children and adults, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific health condition.
Is neurofeedback therapy covered by insurance plans?
Insurance coverage for neurofeedback therapy varies, so it’s crucial to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
How much does neurofeedback therapy typically cost?
The cost of neurofeedback therapy varies by region and clinic, with prices ranging based on the number of sessions required.
What is a key advantage of neurofeedback?
Unlike medication that manages symptoms, neurofeedback teaches the brain to self-regulate. That means your child learns how to shift out of stress, focus better, sleep more deeply, and stay calmer—without relying on external supports.
It’s a science-backed way to create real, lasting change from the inside out.
How long does it take for neurofeedback to work?
Every brain is different, so results vary. Some kids begin to show improvements—like better focus, sleep, or mood—within a few sessions.
For others, it may take a bit longer. Most children need between 20 to 100+ sessions, attending 2 to 3 times per week. Like physical therapy for the brain, consistency is key for lasting results
Citations:
Askovic, M., Soh, N., Elhindi, J., and Harris, A. (2023). Neurofeedback for post-traumatic stress disorder: systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical and neurophysiological outcomes. Eur J. Psychotraumatol. 14(2):2257435. https://doi.org/10/1080/20008066.2023.2257435.
Hammond, D. (2005). Neurofeedback treatment for depression and anxiety. J. Adult Development. 12(2):131-137. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10804-005-7029-5.
Gani, C. (2009). Long terms effects after neurofeedback of slow cortical potentials and of Theta/Beta – amplitudes in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disoder (ADHD). Universitat Tubingen Publication System.
Gong, A., Gu, F., Nan, W., Fu, Y., Qu, Y., Jiang, Q. (2021). A review of neurofeedback training for improving sport performance from the perspective of user experience. Frontiers in Neuroscience. 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2021.638369.
Halson, S. (2017) Neurofeedback as a potential nonpharmacological treatment for insomnia. Biofeedback. 45(1):19-20. https://doi.org/10.5298/1081-5937-45.1.08.
Khajehpiri Z, Mahmoudi-Gharaei J, Faghihi T, Karimzadeh I, Khalili H, Mohammadi M. Adverse reactions of Methylphenidate in children with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder: Report from a referral center. J Res Pharm Pract.3(4):130-6. https://doi.org/10.4103/2279-042X.145389.
Marchi, A., Guex, R., Denis, M., El Youseff, N., Pizzo, F., Benar, C., and Bartolomei, F. (2024). Neurofeedback and epilepsy: renaissance of an old self-regulation method. Revue Neurologique. 180(4):314-325. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.neurol.2024.02.386.
Swanson, J., Arnold, L., Molina, B., Sibley, M., Hechtaman, L., Hinshaw, S., Abikoff, H., Stehli, A., Owens, E., Mitchell, J., Nichols, Q., Howard, A., Greenhill, L., Hoza, B., Newcorn, J., Jensen, P., Vitiello, B., Wigal, T., Epstein, J., Tamm, L., Lakes, K., Waxmonsky, J., Lerner, M., Etcovitch, J., Murray, D., Muenke, M., Acosta, M., Arcos-Burgos, M., Pelham, W., and Kraemer, H. (2017). Young adult outcomes in the follow-up of multimodal treatment study of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: symptom persistence, source discrepancy, and height suppression. J. Child Psychology and Psychiatry. 58(6):663-678. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.12684
Dr. Roseann is a mental health expert in neurofeedback who frequently is in the media:
- The Holistic Counseling Podcast Therapist’s Integrative Tools: Neurofeedback and Biofeedback
- Life’s Essential Ingredients Connecting at the Root
- Helping Children Thrive Podcast Benefits of Neurofeedback for children with ADHD
- It’s Gonna Be OK! With Dr. Roseann Podcast: Neurofeedback Series
- Mel Robbins Show: Neurofeedback
- Clearly Clinical Podcast: Neurofeedback
- Creative Clinician’s Corner: Neurofeedback
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.
Are you looking for SOLUTIONS for your struggling child or teen?
Dr. Roseann and her team are all about science-backed solutions, so you are in the right place!
Grab your complimentary copy of
