qEEG brain mapping

Using Neurofeedback for Teen ADHD

What Is Neurofeedback and Why Is It Effective for Teens?

Neurofeedback is a type of brain training that helps individuals improve self-regulation by reinforcing healthy brainwave patterns. It works through real-time EEG monitoring, providing visual or auditory feedback as the brain learns to produce more optimal activity. For teens with ADHD, this typically involves increasing brainwaves related to focus and reducing those associated with distraction or impulsivity.

Neurofeedback is non-invasive and drug-free, offering a long-term approach to managing symptoms while improving confidence, behavior, and academic success.

Benefits of Neurofeedback for Teen ADHD

In clinical settings, neurofeedback for teen ADHD has shown to deliver multiple benefits:

  • Enhanced focus and sustained attention
  • Reduction in impulsive or disruptive behaviors
  • Improved emotional regulation
  • Decreased anxiety and better sleep
  • Greater self-confidence and academic engagement

What makes neurofeedback especially appealing for adolescents is its interactive and engaging process, often involving video games or media that respond to brainwave activity. As the brain learns to self-regulate, teens often feel empowered by their own progress.

Scientific Support Behind Neurofeedback for ADHD

Numerous studies support the use of neurofeedback in managing ADHD symptoms in youth. A 2017 meta-analysis published in European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry found that neurofeedback significantly improved inattention and impulsivity compared to control groups, with sustained effects over time [1].

A study from Journal of Attention Disorders (2020) revealed that adolescents who received neurofeedback showed consistent improvements in executive functioning and emotional stability months after completing treatment [2].

Additionally, the Cleveland Clinic highlights neurofeedback as a promising treatment that can complement or, in some cases, replace medication for certain individuals with ADHD [3].

Neurofeedback for teen ADHDHow Sessions Work at Connected Brain Counseling

During sessions, your teen is comfortably seated while sensors are placed on the scalp to monitor brainwaves. They interact with games or videos that offer real-time feedback when optimal brain activity is detected. These sessions help rewire neural pathways and promote brain flexibility and balance.

Most families notice improvements within 10–20 sessions, though individualized programs are tailored based on specific needs and goals. We also work collaboratively with caregivers, teachers, and healthcare professionals to ensure the best support possible.

Are you ready to explore a non-medication-based solution to help your teen thrive?
At Connected Brain Counseling, we offer personalized neurofeedback for teen ADHD that helps young individuals enhance their focus, regulate emotions, and improve academic performance.

Book a free consultation today to discover how neurofeedback can support your teen’s path to success.

Sources:

  1. Arns, M., Heinrich, H., & Strehl, U. (2017). “Evaluation of neurofeedback in ADHD: The long-term effects.” European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
    https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00787-016-0931-5
  2. Steiner, N. J., Frenette, E. C., Rene, K. M., Brennan, R. T., & Perrin, E. C. (2020). “Neurofeedback and cognitive attention training for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in schools.” Journal of Attention Disorders.
    https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1087054714526021
  3. Cleveland Clinic. “Neurofeedback: What It Is and How It Helps ADHD.”
    https://health.clevelandclinic.org/neurofeedback-what-it-is-and-how-it-helps-adhd/

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Pauly Munn, MA, LPC

Individual & Couples Counselor; Neurofeedback Clinician; EMDR-Trained (PhD Candidate)

Pauly is a Colorado native who received his MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Regis University, and is a current doctoral candidate for a PhD in Clinical Psychology program at Fielding Graduate University. Pauly is an empathetic counselor who believes in a compassionate, yet direct approach to therapy. Pauly believes his clients are the experts of their experience. Through a collaborative lens, clients who work with Pauly are able to gain meaningful insight into their experience which in-turn provides the essential resources for navigating change and/or healing emotional wounds. Pauly utilizes an integrated trauma-informed lens blended with evidence-based modalities including ACT, CBT, EFT, and more. Pauly specializes in working with adult individuals and couples, with several years of experience working directly with a broad range of presenting challenges including relationship challenges, PTSD & complex trauma, substance use disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. More importantly, Pauly believes in building a safe space in which each and every one of his clients feels seen & heard. Pauly identifies as a Latino-American, and is passionate about conducting therapy utilizing a social justice & diversity-informed lens. Pauly has a strong background working with multicultural identities, and believes in the importance of recognizing our unique differences. Pauly loves staying active through basketball, tennis, volleyball, hiking, dancing, strength training, and more. Additionally, Pauly spends time actively engaging in ongoing research projects in trauma, social justice, and neuropsychology.

Pauly's Specialties

Brianna Herrera, MA, LPCC

Individual & Couples Counselor; Neurofeedback Clinician

Brianna believes in a holistic approach to counseling, integrating mind, body, and spirit in her work with clients. She strives to help clients weave the various aspects of their lives together through a collaborative approach, meeting her clients where they’re at and partnering with them to create lasting change and a greater sense of wholeness in their lives. Brianna seeks to create a grounding and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences with freedom and authenticity. She embraces a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities to best meet her clients’ specific needs and goals, such as trauma-informed CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based techniques, solution-focused therapy, emotion-focused therapy, and humanistic approaches. In her work with couples, Brianna focuses on helping partners improve communication, strengthen their emotional connection, and navigate challenges such as conflict resolution, intimacy issues, and life transitions. She believes that life-giving, functioning relationships are foundational to a person’s sense of well-being. Brianna is certified in facilitating both SYMBIS and Prepare-Enrich couples counseling sessions. In her free time, she can often be found adventuring outside with her husband and pup, hosting a game night, or enjoying time with community.

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Sydney Focht, MA, LPC

Clinical Director & Counselor

I specialize in working with women in their 20s to 50s who struggle with self-worth, self-esteem, and the guilt that often comes with prioritizing themselves. Finding self-trust and the ability to feel worthy of happiness are common topics in my work. My clients tend to put off therapy because they downplay their struggles, describing their pain as ‘not that big of a deal.’ Many of them grew up in households where expressing emotions wasn’t encouraged and they are still looking for security now. My goal is to create a space where you feel completely free to be yourself—no pressure, no expectations. Therapy with me isn’t about either of us being ‘perfect’—it’s more about you feeling safe, seen, and supported as you figure things out in a way that works for you. I prioritize meaningful conversations that get to the heart of the issue, getting to the root and out of surface level conversation quickly. Going through my own therapy has given me a deeper understanding of what it’s like to be in the client’s seat, and it’s made me even more passionate about helping others find the support that truly works for them. My clients describe me as focused, compassionate, nonjudgmental, and down-to-earth. I truly love what I do and that comes through in my work! I’m a person-centered therapist, but I often integrate elements of Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and IFS.

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Cassandra Keller, MA, LPCC

Neurofeedback Clinician & Counselor (EMDR-Trained)

I support adults and teens (15+) who are ready to find relief from trauma, anxiety, depression, or feeling stuck in life, career, or identity transitions. Using a compassionate, trauma-informed, and integrative approach, I help clients reconnect with themselves and move toward balance and resilience. I’m EMDR-trained and draw from person-centered, gestalt, DBT, and somatic practices. Whether we’re working with the nervous system, processing painful memories, or exploring patterns with curiosity, my goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel supported, present, and empowered to grow. I especially enjoy working with athletes, creative people, students, and outdoor adventurers who value resilience, beauty, and balance. Alongside therapy and grounding practices, I also offer neurofeedback as another powerful pathway for nervous system regulation and healing. Outside the office, you’ll often find me climbing, fly fishing, running trails, foraging, or relaxing in the grass under the aspens. My love for movement, play, and nature continually inspires how I show up with clients.

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