Can neurofeedback therapy assist in emotional regulation for ADHD? 

Neurofeedback therapy, sometimes called EEG biofeedback, is gaining interest as a non-medication approach to help people with ADHD manage focus and emotions. But while it sounds promising, the scientific evidence remains mixed and it’s not yet part of standard NHS care. 

What neurofeedback aims to do 

Neurofeedback works by training people to change their brainwave patterns through real-time monitoring. During sessions, sensors measure brain activity and provide feedback to help the person regulate attention, calm responses, or improve emotional control. Some research suggests this may strengthen how the prefrontal cortex (which manages focus and decision-making) communicates with emotional centres such as the amygdala. However, results vary between studies, and benefits for emotional regulation appear modest. 

What the NHS and NICE say 

According to NHS guidance, neurofeedback is occasionally mentioned as a non-drug option, but it is not routinely recommended. The NICE NG87 guideline confirms this, noting that current evidence is too limited for it to be part of standard ADHD treatment (NICE NG87). NICE instead prioritises established therapies such as medication, cognitive-behavioural approaches, and lifestyle-based stress management. 

What research shows so far 

Recent reviews published on PubMed (2024) and in the Cochrane Library (2023) found that neurofeedback may offer small, short-term improvements in attention or impulsivity but the impact on emotional regulation is inconsistent. The Lancet Psychiatry analysis in 2023 similarly urged more rigorous studies to clarify how neurofeedback affects the brain’s reward and regulation pathways. 

Professional bodies such as the Royal College of Psychiatrists describe neurofeedback as largely experimental and recommend seeking regulated, clinical providers if trying it. The Mayo Clinic adds that it should only be used as a supplementary approach, alongside proven treatments and under professional supervision. 

Takeaway 

Neurofeedback may one day play a role in emotional regulation for ADHD but for now, the evidence remains uncertain. NHS and NICE emphasise that medication, behavioural therapy, and structured daily routines remain the most reliable ways to manage emotional symptoms. If you’re curious about neurofeedback, discuss it with a qualified clinician first and choose only regulated, evidence-based services. 

Phoebe Carter, MSc

Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

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.