Neurofeedback for ADHD and Anxiety: A Natural Brain-Based Approach That Lasts

an image of a brain and two dumbbells
The benefits of neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety includes improved focus, consistent self-regulation, and more.

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Neurofeedback for ADHD and Anxiety: A Drug-Free Approach

Struggling with focus, procrastination, or feeling overwhelmed in today’s world is not uncommon. However, if you—or your child or teen—is unable to focus, learn, or perform daily tasks due to ADHD or anxiety, you may need help.

While stimulant medications are the most common treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also called attention deficit disorder (ADD), and anti-anxiety pills are often a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders, they aren’t the only options. Many people are now turning to neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety for a natural, brain-based approach that trains the brain to function better.

Studies have shown that neurofeedback can improve focus and emotional regulation, especially in kids and teens.

At Amen Clinics, we’ve seen amazing results in people of all ages who’ve used this technique to overcome restlessness, impulsive behaviors, and anxiety without relying on medication. Here’s a closer look at how neurofeedback works and why it can lead to lasting positive change.

Many families are now turning to neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety for a natural, brain-based approach that trains the brain to function better.

JOEY AND MONICA’S STORY: REAL KIDS, REAL RESULTS

 

There is real-world proof that neurofeedback for ADHD works. Look at Joey, for example. At age 9, he was struggling with hyperactivity, impulsive behavior, and difficulty paying attention in class. After his doctor suggested stimulant medication, his mom made the decision to explore other options.

That’s when she decided to visit Amen Clinics and learned about neurofeedback therapy as a natural ADHD treatment for children and adults. After just a few weeks of sessions, Joey’s focus improved, and his restlessness calmed. Best of all, the changes stuck after he finished his sessions.

Then there’s 17-year-old Monica, who was dealing with anxiety, mood swings, and trouble in school. Traditional therapy helped a little, but not enough to be consistent. And when she was on medications, she tried didn’t feel right.

Once she visited Amen Clinics and started neurofeedback, everything began to shift. Within a month, she felt less anxious. After six months, Monica was more focused and emotionally balanced. Even her family noticed how much calmer and cooperative she had become.

Related: 10 Ways to Overcome Impulse Disorders

 

WHAT IS NEUROFEEDBACK AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

 

Think of neurofeedback as a workout for your brain. It’s a safe, non-invasive way to help the brain learn how to self-regulate better using real-time feedback.

During a session, your (or your child’s) brain waves are monitored using sensors placed on the scalp. When the brain is in a focused, calm state, you get a reward—like a sound, a graphic on the screen, or points in a game.

 

Most people wonder what to expect from neurofeedback and if it’ll be a fast or obvious result. The reality is that, over time, this “training” helps the brain recognize what calm and focus feel like and how to return to that state more easily on its own.

 

That’s the big difference. It doesn’t just temporarily treat symptoms. Studies show promising results in teaching the brain to function better long-term.

 

Press Play for Natural Ways to Heal ADHD

In this video, Amen Clinics psychiatrist and ADHD specialist Dr. Steven Storage reveals non-drug ADHD treatments that work.

Click below to tune in:

WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE NEUROFEEDBACK OVER MEDICATION

 

ADHD medications can be helpful for some people, but they’re not for everyone. Some individuals experience side effects like appetite changes, mood swings, or trouble sleeping. Others don’t respond well to meds at all.

 

That’s why many parents are seeking natural ADHD treatments for kids that don’t involve altering brain chemistry with drugs. Neurofeedback therapy offers a way to teach the brain to function better—without any unwanted side effects.

Related: 7 Natural ADHD Treatments You Can Start Today

 

H2. BECOMING THE BOSS OF YOUR BRAIN

 

One of the best parts of neurofeedback? It helps anxious people feel empowered and confident. Instead of feeling like they’re “broken,” they learn that they can change their brain and calm nervousness.

 

For kids like Monica, who struggled with anxiety, that sense of control can be life changing. Neurofeedback becomes a non-medication treatment for anxiety to overcome fearfulness increase a sense of peace. 

 

Kill the ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts)

 

People who have ADHD or anxiety are often filled with ANTs—automatic negative thoughts—that pop up and create stress or self-doubt. At Amen Clinics, we also teach people how to identify and stop those ANTs.

 

When used alongside neurofeedback as a natural ADHD treatment for kids or adults, this strategy helps people take charge of their thoughts and their brain health. Think of it as a way to build lasting mental strength.

Related: Negative Thinking: Do You Have an ANT Infestation in Your Head?

 

Conclusion: A Calmer, More Focused Future Is Possible

 

If you or your child is struggling with ADHD or anxiety, know that lasting change is possible—without relying solely on medication. Neurofeedback therapy offers a safe, non-invasive way to retrain the brain for better focus, emotional regulation, and overall mental wellness.

 

Just look at Joey, who went from restless and distracted to focused and calm after just a few weeks of neurofeedback sessions. Or Monica, whose anxiety and mood swings improved so much that even her family noticed a transformation. Their stories aren’t rare—at Amen Clinics, we’ve seen thousands of individuals benefit from this science-backed, brain-based therapy.

 

Whether you’re exploring options for your child, your teen, or yourself, neurofeedback could be the missing piece in your mental health journey. With the right tools and support, you can build a brain that works better—and a life that feels better.

FAQ

Yes! At Amen Clinics, we’ve seen amazing results using neurofeedback for ADHD and anxiety. People become calmer, more focused, and more in control. It’s also recognized by the American Academy of Pediatrics as a top-level treatment for ADHD.

Unlike medication, which often only manages symptoms short-term, neurofeedback helps train the brain to function better long-term. It’s a great option for people looking for drug-free solutions or for kids or adults who don’t respond well to medications.

You (or your child) will play fun, brain-based games while wearing small sensors that read brain activity. When their brain is in a focused or calm state, you get instant feedback. Over time, this helps the brain repeat those healthy patterns more often.

ADHD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can’t wait. At Amen Clinics, we provide personalized, science-backed treatment plans designed to target the root causes of your symptoms. Our 360-approach includes brain SPECT imaging, clinical evaluations, innovative therapeutic techniques, medications (when necessary), and holistic lifestyle recommendations to promote the health of your brain, body, and mind. Speak to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.

Amen Clinics

Founded in 1989 by double-board certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist Daniel G. Amen, MD, Amen Clinics Inc. (ACI) is known as the best brain and mental health company in the world. Our clinical staff includes over 50 healthcare specialists, including adult and child psychiatrists, integrative (functional) medicine physicians, naturopaths, addiction specialists, forensic psychiatrists, geriatric psychiatrists, nutritionists, licensed therapists, and more. Our clinicians have all been hand-selected and personally trained by Dr. Amen, whose mission is to end mental illness by creating a revolution in brain health. Over the last 35-plus years, ACI has built the world’s largest database of functional brain scans—over 250,000 SPECT scans on patients from 155 countries—related to how people think, feel, and behave.

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