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What role does neurofeedback play in addressing impulsivity? 

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Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Neurofeedback in ADHD impulsivity is gaining traction as a promising therapy for managing impulsive behaviours associated with ADHD. By using real-time brainwave monitoring, neurofeedback allows individuals to train their brains to regulate impulsivity and improve focus, emotional control, and decision-making. This non-invasive technique has emerged as a powerful alternative or supplement to traditional treatment options. 

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How Neurofeedback Helps Manage Impulsivity in ADHD 

Neurofeedback, also known as brain training, works by providing immediate feedback on brainwave activity, allowing users to make adjustments and reinforce healthier brain patterns. Here’s how neurofeedback addresses impulsivity in ADHD: 

Real-Time Brainwave Monitoring 

Neurofeedback uses electroencephalogram (EEG) sensors to monitor brainwave activity. When individuals display impulsive behaviours, such as acting without thinking or emotional outbursts, the neurofeedback system gives immediate visual or auditory cues to help the person adjust their brain activity. This feedback allows users to learn to regulate impulsivity and focus more effectively. 

Teaching Self-Regulation 

The goal of brain training through neurofeedback is to help individuals develop self-regulation skills. By reinforcing calm, focused brainwave patterns and discouraging impulsive, erratic activity, neurofeedback encourages more thoughtful decision-making and emotional control. Over time, individuals with ADHD can learn to respond more deliberately rather than impulsively, improving daily functioning and reducing frustration. 

Complementing Other Therapies 

Neurofeedback is often used alongside other therapy options like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or medication. By strengthening the brain’s ability to control impulsivity, it enhances the effectiveness of these other treatments, leading to improved outcomes in both emotional and behavioural regulation. 

In summary, neurofeedback in ADHD impulsivity is a cutting-edge therapy that helps individuals with ADHD learn to manage their impulsive behaviours by training the brain. With real-time feedback and brainwave regulation, neurofeedback provides a practical, non-invasive way to address impulsivity and complement traditional ADHD treatments. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation. 

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Impulsivity in ADHD.  

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Avery Lombardi, MSc
Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy. 

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