What New Therapies Target Brain Structure and Function Abnormalities in ADHD?

PostedAugust 19, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Harriet Winslow, BSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Recent research has led to the development of new therapies aimed at addressing the brain structure ADHD abnormalities commonly seen in individuals with the condition. Brain scans ADHD have revealed differences in brain regions responsible for attention, impulse control, and emotional regulation, particularly in areas like the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia.

One emerging therapy is neurofeedback, a technique that uses real-time brain scans ADHD to help individuals regulate their brain activity. By training individuals to increase activity in underactive brain regions, such as those involved in focus and self-control, neurofeedback has shown promise in improving attention and reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Additionally, cognitive training focuses on strengthening the executive function deficits associated with ADHD. By enhancing skills such as working memory, problem-solving, and decision-making, cognitive training aims to improve brain function in areas that are often underdeveloped in individuals with ADHD. Moreover, prenatal risk ADHD factors, such as maternal stress or substance use, can impact early brain development, leading to lasting structural differences. Interventions targeting these brain areas may be particularly beneficial for those affected by prenatal risk ADHD.

How It Helps

These therapies offer several benefits for individuals with ADHD:

Targeting Brain Function

Neurofeedback and cognitive training help improve brain structure ADHD by targeting specific brain areas involved in ADHD symptoms.

Improved Focus and Self-Regulation

Both therapies aim to improve executive function, leading to better attention and impulse control.

Support for Children

For ADHD in children, early intervention with these therapies can significantly improve long-term outcomes.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Brain Structure and Function.

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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.