DEVICES & DIGITAL
Neurofeedback (EEG biofeedback)
Training brain-wave patterns with real-time feedback; widely marketed, evidence mixed.
How it works
Sensors measure brain activity and a game or display rewards certain patterns. Courses often run 20–40 sessions and can be costly.
What the evidence says, use by use
Evidence is specific to the condition, population and—for devices—the exact product. One label never covers everything.
ADHD: Reducing ADHD symptoms
Emerging / limitedA meta-analysis of randomized trials found that improvements were not clearly significant when outcomes were rated by assessors unaware of treatment—so effects may reflect expectation.
Sources: Cortese et al., J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry (2016)
Who usually provides it
Private clinics; credentials vary.
Cautions & things to know
- Expensive and time-consuming; ask for evidence specific to the protocol offered.
Questions for a clinician
Conversation prompts, not a treatment plan.
- What outcome are you targeting, and how will it be measured objectively?
Educational, not medical advice. NeuroCoach is an educational and care-navigation resource, not a medical provider. Information about medications, supplements, therapies, devices, clinical trials and community experiences is provided for education and exploration and is not a recommendation, diagnosis or treatment plan. Evidence varies substantially among interventions. Decisions about medical or mental-health treatment should be made with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop or change medication, supplements or treatment based solely on information found here.
Sources
Sources checked October 5, 2026. Links support this page; they don’t imply endorsement of NeuroCoach.
- Neurofeedback for ADHD: meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials Cortese et al., J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry (2016)