If you’re in therapy to help manage ADHD (or anything else), odds are you’ve found yourself reflecting on your sessions after they’re over. And as you replay those conversations, you may have a certain nagging thought: Did I share too much?

Vulnerability is a critical part of the therapy process. Openly discussing your thoughts, experiences, fears, and emotions can leave you feeling exposed and second-guessing what you chose to divulge. But here’s the good news: There’s really no such thing as oversharing in therapy.

“To be clear, you cannot overshare with your therapist,” says Amy Marschall, Psy.D. ”If there is a topic that the therapist wants to explore later, or they are worried you could become triggered before they help you develop the skills to navigate that, they will guide and redirect as appropriate.”

ADHD and the fear of oversharing

The fear of oversharing can feel particularly intense for people with ADHD. Some may blurt out thoughts unintentionally. Others may be self-conscious of talking about themselves or their interests. “ADHD sometimes makes it harder to tell if other people are interested in what you’re saying,” says Kara Nassour, LPC, NCC.

Even once you realize that it’s normal, and even expected, to divulge personal details during therapy, you may still feel regret about sharing too much.

“In my work with ADHD clients, it is incredibly common for them to apologize for how much they talk, for what they share and for expressing emotions, specifically when they cry,” says Candin Phillips, LPCS. “Many grew up hearing over and over again that they talk too much, that they share intimate information too soon or that their emotions are too much. So they feel ashamed when they do those things in therapy.”

Why you might regret sharing something

There are many reasons you may second-guess opening up to a therapist. Maybe you shared something uncomfortable. Maybe you admitted something for the first time. Maybe you’re used to masking ADHD symptoms and surprised yourself when you let that mask down.

Fortunately, your therapist is the last person you should worry about judging you. There are few places where the term “judgment-free zone” is more applicable than therapy. 

“When clients apologize for crying or becoming upset, I tell them, ‘If you can’t cry in your appointment with a psychologist, when can you?’,” says Marschall.

What to do if you think you’ve overshared

If you share something in session and instantly regret it, don’t hesitate to tell your therapist you’re not ready to discuss further. If the regret hits later, bring it up the next session. Explaining why something felt uncomfortable may make you feel better and help your therapist navigate future conversations. 

“I’m grateful when clients tell me they feel uneasy,” Phillips says. “It helps me understand how hard honest expression is for them outside of therapy.” 

Good therapists will help you explore these feelings, not judge you for having them. From these vulnerable discussions come new insights and an opportunity for growth and real progress.

How much should you share?

There’s no perfect ratio when it comes to how much to share, however, the more your therapist knows about what you’re thinking and feeling, the better equipped they are to support you.

It can feel unnatural to open up, but remember that your therapist wants to hear what you have to say. In fact, it’s one of the most important parts of their job.

“A lot of my work with ADHD clients is helping them take down their defenses,” says therapist Franki Bagdade, LMSW. “They’ve been on the receiving end of negative feedback for so long. I help them see their strengths and understand their struggles.”

If you’re still unsure, don’t hesitate to ask if you’re sharing too much. The likely outcome is that your therapist will reassure you that you’re doing just fine.

Go at your own pace

While it’s worth digging deeper into the moments you feel uncomfortable after opening up in therapy, it doesn’t mean you did anything wrong.

“If a client feels unsafe or judged, that’s on the therapist,” says Cynthia Edwards-Hawver, Psy.D. “It’s our job to make clients feel seen, heard, and validated.”

And if you’re not ready to open up right away, that’s also perfectly fine. Therapy is a gradual process that happens at your pace. But the more open you are, the more progress you’ll make.

Clinically reviewed by Amy Marschall, PsyD. Dr Marschall has been a licensed psychologist since 2016 and currently owns a private practice, RMH-Therapy, where she provides therapy primarily to children and adolescents and does psychological evaluations and also provides ADHD assessments through ADHD Online.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., December 18, 2024 (Newswire.com) –Mentavi Health, a leading online provider of mental health diagnosis and treatment and a pioneer in telehealth services through ADHD Online, has expanded its telehealth therapy service to more than 40 states across the country. All therapy will be provided by doctorate-level psychologists, offering patients expert-level care for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and other conditions. These are the same psychologists who review and provide diagnosis via Mentavi Health’s Diagnostic Evaluation diagnostic evaluation. 

The nationwide expansion is a significant milestone for the company as it delivers on its mission of making high-quality, evidence-based mental health care available to all, regardless of where they live.  

“Telehealth therapy is a powerful tool, and we’re able to provide that therapy to far more people than we could previously,” said Barry K. Herman, M.D., M.M.M., Chief Medical Officer of Mentavi Health. “Mentavi Health’s commitment to providing that care through doctorate-level psychologists is vital, especially for clients seeking in-depth psychological support and insight into mental health concerns.” 

Doctorate-level psychologists offer patients a wealth of specialized skills, making them uniquely prepared to manage both singular and co-existing mental health conditions. They undergo at least four to six years of education, including coursework, research, and supervised clinical practice. That prepares them to conduct thorough psychological assessments, diagnose conditions, and develop tailored, research-backed therapy treatment plans based on each patient’s individual needs.

The benefits of receiving therapy from a doctorate-level psychologist include:  

• Expertise in psychological assessment – Doctorate-level psychologists are highly skilled in diagnosing and assessing a range of mental health conditions, such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, learning disabilities, etc. Their training in psychometrics and psychological evaluation allows them to interpret nuanced diagnostic results.  
• Specialized treatment modalities -Psychologists’ training often gives them in-depth experience with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic therapy. This enables them to provide patients with a higher level of intervention in the most challenging cases. 
• Research-based practices – Many doctorate-level psychologists are actively involved with research in their field or specialty, which means they stay current with the latest findings and best practices in mental health care and provide cutting-edge treatment to their patients.  
• Ability to provide comprehensive care – Psychologists’ advanced training equips them to diagnose and treat people with multi-layered or co-occurring conditions, and to provide a unified, integrated treatment plan to address all of the patient’s conditions.  

Appointments with Mentavi Health’s psychologists are via HIPAA-compliant Zoom accounts, and patients can choose their preferred psychologist and switch to another if needed. Patients can also pair their psychotherapy with mental wellness coaching if desired. Mentavi Health appointments can be reimbursed up to 100% by many insurance plans, and patients can use their HSA or FSA accounts for therapy. 

Mentavi Health CEO Keith Brophy highlighted the company’s commitment to evolving in response to patient needs, with this new service as a prime example.  Brophy commented, “As telehealth therapy continues to grow in popularity as a convenient and effective way for patients to access mental health care, Mentavi Health remains steadfast in our commitment to supporting them. Our mission is to ensure that individuals in underserved areas, regions with limited availability, people with demanding schedules, or those seeking the ease and accessibility of telehealth can receive care from highly trained and experienced psychologists, empowering them to prioritize their mental well-being”.  

For more information about Mentavi Health, visit mentavihealth.com. To schedule a therapy session, visit adhdonline.com

About Mentavi Health 
Established as ADHD Online in 2018, Mentavi Health has evolved to encompass a broader range of mental health services. With the mission to make quality ADHD assessments accessible to all, Mentavi has grown to address not only ADHD but also the most common related mental health conditions. The nationwide Mentavi Diagnostic Evaluation and various treatment options showcase the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, compliant online mental health care. 

Source: Mentavi Health

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With our proven model of separating assessment from treatment, holding ourselves to rigorous clinical standards, and streamlining care, we help patients take control of their lives across a spectrum of mental health needs.

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Original Source: newswire.com

What to Expect During Your First Session with a Therapist

Brandy Levine  

If you’re considering seeing a therapist, you’re taking a significant step toward improving your mental health. The journey begins with your first session, a crucial moment that sets the tone for your therapy experience. So, what can you expect on this initial visit?

Understanding the Initial Meeting

Your first session with a therapist is often more about getting to know each other than diving deep into your issues. The therapist will start by asking questions about your background, current challenges, and what led you to seek therapy. It’s their way of understanding where you’re coming from and how they can best assist you. You might be asked about your family history, any past therapy experiences, and your goals for therapy. This is a time for you to share your story, and it’s important to be as open and honest as possible.

Setting Goals and Expectations

One of the key aspects of your first session is setting goals. Your therapist will work with you to identify what you hope to achieve through therapy. These goals might include managing anxiety, improving relationships, or addressing specific issues. It’s also an opportunity to discuss your expectations about the therapy process. The therapist will explain how they work and what you can expect from future sessions. This mutual understanding helps build a foundation of trust and ensures that you’re both on the same page.

Exploring Your Comfort Level

Comfort is crucial in therapy. Your first session is a time to assess how comfortable you feel with the therapist. The relationship between you and your therapist is central to the success of therapy, so it’s important that you feel at ease. You might find yourself evaluating their communication style, demeanor, and approach to therapy. It’s okay to discuss any concerns or hesitations you have during this session.

Understanding Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of therapy. Your therapist will explain the limits of confidentiality and how your information will be protected. They’ll discuss situations where they might be required to break confidentiality, such as in cases of imminent harm or abuse. Understanding these boundaries helps establish trust and ensures that you feel safe sharing your thoughts and feelings.

How to Prepare for Your First Session

Preparation can help you feel more at ease during your first session. Consider writing down key points you want to discuss, including your reasons for seeking therapy and any specific issues you’re facing. It might also be helpful to jot down any questions you have about the therapy process. Being prepared can make the conversation flow more smoothly and ensure that you cover everything that’s important to you.

The Therapist’s Approach

Different therapists have different approaches, and your first session is a good time to understand their style. Some therapists may use cognitive-behavioral techniques, while others may focus on psychodynamic or humanistic approaches. Understanding their methods can help you decide if their approach aligns with your needs. Feel free to ask about their approach and how they think it will benefit you.

Real-Life Experience

Consider Sarah’s experience, who recently started therapy in Los Angeles. She was anxious about her first session but found that the therapist’s warm and welcoming demeanor helped her feel comfortable. The therapist asked thoughtful questions and helped Sarah articulate her goals for therapy. Sarah appreciated the clear explanation of what to expect and felt more confident moving forward. This positive initial experience made a significant difference in her commitment to the therapeutic process.

Common Concerns

It’s normal to have concerns about your first therapy session. You might worry about being judged, not knowing what to say, or whether therapy will actually help. These concerns are common and part of the process. Remember, therapists are trained to create a non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported. If you’re feeling uncertain, it’s okay to share these feelings with your therapist.

Building a Strong Therapeutic Relationship

The success of therapy often hinges on the strength of the relationship between you and your therapist. Your first session is a time to start building this relationship. A strong therapeutic relationship is built on trust, respect, and open communication. As you continue with therapy, this relationship will grow and become a crucial part of your healing journey.

Next Steps

After your first session, you and your therapist will discuss the next steps. This might include scheduling future sessions, setting specific goals, or exploring additional resources. The initial session is just the beginning, and your therapist will guide you through the process, providing support and tools to help you achieve your goals.

In summary, your first session with a therapist is an important step in your mental health journey. It’s a time to get to know your therapist, set goals, and discuss your expectations. By preparing and being open, you can make the most of this initial meeting and set the stage for a successful therapeutic experience.

Bio

Brandy Levine is a licensed therapist at Stori. She specializes in cognitive-behavioral therapy, helping clients navigate life’s challenges with resilience and insight. Her approach is centered on fostering self-awareness and empowering individuals to enact positive change in their lives.

Throughout American history, Black professionals have left an indelible mark on the fields of psychiatry, psychology, counseling, and therapy and have been powerful advocates for mental health treatment and awareness. February, celebrated as Black History Month, provides a fitting backdrop to honor and recognize the monumental contributions of Black Americans who have steadfastly combated the mental health disparities plaguing African Americans and other minority communities. This disparity is particularly evident in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD but exists for conditions such as anxiety and depression as well. 

Among these luminaries stands Bebe Moor Campbell, an author, journalist, and teacher who worked to highlight the mental health needs of the Black community. Campbell’s pioneering efforts took root in California, where she established the National Alliance on Mental Illness-Inglewood, a beacon of hope and support for those grappling with mental health challenges. Her advocacy eventually took her to Washington, D.C. On June 2, 2008, Congress recognized Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month to bring awareness to the unique struggles that underrepresented groups face regarding mental illness in the US.

Mamie Phipps Clark, Ph.D., and her husband, Kenneth Clark, Ph.D., were trailblazers in mental health advocacy. Kenneth Clark made history as the first African American to earn a doctorate in psychology from Columbia University, with Mamie Clark following as the second, marking a significant milestone in academic achievement and advocacy. Their “Doll Study,” which revealed the internalized effects of racial prejudice on African-American children through their preference for white dolls over black dolls, played a crucial role in the Brown vs. Board of Education decision that ended school segregation.

Another trailblazer, Maxie Clarence Maultsby, Jr., M.D., has left an indelible legacy in the realm of mental health through his development of rational behavior therapy. Dr. Maultsby’s innovative approach, grounded in emotional and behavioral self-management principles, leveraged cutting-edge neuropsychological insights to forge a comprehensive, drug-free methodology for cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and counseling. His commitment to the advancement of emotional self-help as a scientifically valid and clinically relevant practice has been immortalized in his pioneering publications, laying the foundation for a new era of therapeutic intervention.

As we celebrate Black History Month, let’s honor the transformative contributions of these and countless other Black professionals in the mental health field. Their dedication, innovation, and resilience have enriched the tapestry of mental health care and paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable future in the healing professions.

Keith – affectionately known as Bos – is the vice president of marketing for Mentavi Health and ADHD Online and has been on the podcast more times than we can count. He’s never had the opportunity to share his story from start to finish which is why we were so excited to wrap up this series with our friend. The perfect way to close out an incredible line-up of ADHDers. 

Follow Keith on Instagram (an absolute must for art lovers and toy collectors)! 

Sleep issues can be an ongoing problem for adults with ADHD, and the sleep deprivation that results from this lack of rest can worsen ADHD symptoms.

But a dietary supplement called melatonin can help. The supplement uses the same compound that occurs naturally in the body. And some people — with and without ADHD — have found it can help them sleep.

Still, if you have ADHD and sleep problems, you need to consider the possible pros and cons of using melatonin.

ADHD and Sleep Problems

Difficulty falling asleep because of an overactive mind and delayed sleep-phase syndrome are common sleep impairments among people with ADHD, says Dr. Chester Wu, psychiatrist and sleep specialist in Houston and medical reviewer at Rise Science. Other problems include:

• Delayed sleep onset, meaning it is difficult to fall asleep until significantly later than the conventional bedtime.
• Difficulty waking up at the desired time in the morning.
• More awakenings during the night.
• Poorer overall quality of sleep.

“A lack of sleep can induce ADHD symptoms, and having ADHD makes you more likely to experience sleep disturbances,” says Dr. Rebecca Jackson, a chiropractic doctor and brain wellness expert. “A tired brain has difficulty paying attention, recalling information, overriding impulses and controlling emotional reactions. Individuals with ADHD already struggle with one or more symptoms and a lack of sleep only exacerbates these challenges.”

Quality sleep is a necessity for productivity and overall well-being.

“Research has shown that shifts in sleep and wakefulness patterns for someone with ADHD can come from differences in the timing and amount of natural melatonin being released, setting the brain’s pattern of sleep and wakefulness,” Jackson says.

Natural Melatonin in People With and Without ADHD

Everyone’s body makes melatonin naturally. Darkness prompts the pineal gland to produce melatonin at night. However, behavior impacts whether melatonin production is successful.

Light causes the natural production of melatonin to stop, which means the circadian rhythm and the sleep-wake cycle of the body go unsynchronized and interfere with the sleep transition.

And humans often interrupt natural darkness with unnatural light — especially from the overuse of mobile phones and tablets at night. These devices produce blue light than interrupts that darkness and can affect sleep.

And, in adults with ADHD, the natural production of melatonin gets interrupted in additional ways.

“There is a substantial association between ADHD and delayed sleep phase disorder, a circadian rhythm sleep disorder prevalent in approximately 73 to 78% of individuals with ADHD,” says Wu. “Individuals with circadian rhythm sleep disorders often experience a delay in the natural production of melatonin, leading to difficulty falling asleep at conventional bedtimes.”

The result: The alteration in melatonin secretion can result in a shifted sleep phase.

That means that people:

• may feel more alert in late evening.

• face challenges in being able to wake up early.
• often have lower quality and duration of sleep.

Wu says experts still don’t know why people who have ADHD and circadian rhythm sleep disorders have a more difficult time falling asleep than people without such difficulties. One scientific theory, he says, is the brain’s synapses have a reduced responsiveness to melatonin.

When this responsiveness to melatonin is low — even if melatonin levels are adequate — the neural response may be subdued. As a result, this potentially “impacts the regulation of sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms, leading to difficulties in initiating sleep or maintaining regular sleep patterns,” Wu says.

Pros and Cons of Melatonin Supplements for the ADHD Brain

Even though melatonin is a natural element in the body, melatonin supplementation isn’t for everyone. It’s critical to consult with a doctor to discuss appropriate dosage and timing, especially if you take medication for ADHD or other conditions.

“Melatonin is often taken in excessive amounts and at incorrect times,” says Wu.

That can impact restfulness and cause grogginess upon waking, he says.

Also, as with any supplement, there are pros and cons to melatonin and how it affects the ADHD brain.

Here are some benefits to taking melatonin supplements if you have ADHD:

• Helps shift sleep schedules

Melatonin supplementation is effective in shifting sleep schedules for people with ADHD. If you stay up too late, melatonin could help fix this daily pattern.

“If your sleep struggle involves challenges with falling asleep, melatonin is a low-risk option that may reduce this time and increase the time spent sleeping,” says Jackson.

Melatonin can shift the time a person goes to sleep forward by approximately 1.5 hours.

• Can be especially effective with light therapy

Melatonin taken at a low dose in late afternoon or early evening combined with light therapy early in the day can advance sleep schedules and shorten sleep onset for those with ADHD and circadian rhythm disruption, Wu says. Bright light therapy used consistently first thing in the morning has shown to improve shifting sleep patterns, signaling to the brain that it is time to be awake and resetting circadian rhythms of sleep and wakefulness, Jackson says. Some research shows the combination of melatonin and light therapy can be more effective than melatonin supplementation alone.

Here are some disadvantages to melatonin supplementation for people with ADHD:

• Some side effects

Melatonin is generally considered low risk for side effects, but that doesn’t mean they’re non-existent. Jackson says common side effects include daytime sleepiness, headaches, nausea and
dizziness.

“Less common but more severe side effects include reports of depression,” Jackson says,

• Inconsistent results

Melatonin can be helpful for some people with ADHD, but it does not always deliver the same results. Though the sleep aid can shorten the time it takes to fall asleep and increase the total time spent asleep, its effects are inconsistent across multiple studies and classified as “preliminary evidence,” says Jackson.

Are Melatonin Supplements for Everyone?

Sleep issues are common — in people with and without ADHD. Sleep issues can be a symptom and side effect of ADHD, and can exacerbate other ADHD symptoms.

For many, taking melatonin supplements can deliver good results.

But melatonin is not a cure-all for sleep issues. And, as with all over-the-counter supplements, you should take melatonin only after you’ve discussed it with your doctor.

With the support of a strong network, effective therapy, and self-awareness practices, Tori has learned to navigate her emotions and communication, leading to a more fulfilling and accepting life. Today, Tori thrives in her roles at ADHD Online and Mentavi Health, empowered by the understanding and acceptance she receives from her community. 

Listen in as Tori discusses the realities of living with ADHD, shares how her journey with medication made her realize its role as a tool for her to utilize – not a total fix – and how wonderful it has been finding her place, her people and her purpose. 

Refocused, Together is a collection of 31 stories told throughout the 31 days of October, a part of our commitment to ADHD Awareness Month. Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss a single story this month! 

Many people with ADHD seek medication and psychotherapy to manage their symptoms. If you are one of those people, and aren’t getting the results that you want, should you seek a lesser-known ADHD treatment called neurofeedback therapy?

The therapy may help some patients control certain ADHD symptoms, but experts say more research is needed before the treatment can be widely recommended by doctors and therapists.

Neurofeedback therapy may help some people with ADHD learn how to train their brains to focus more effectively and avoid distractions.

“The aim is to help individuals with ADHD learn to self-regulate and improve attention, impulse control and other ADHD-related symptoms,” says Jared Heathman, MD, a psychiatrist in Houston.

But others with ADHD may not benefit from the therapy. And another issue to consider: the therapy can be expensive, and is often not covered by insurance.

How neurofeedback therapy works

When someone with ADHD visits a therapist for a neurofeedback therapy session, the therapist places painless sensors at different locations on a person’s scalp, to measure their brainwaves. The sensors are connected by wires to an electroencephalograph, a machine that measures the brain’s electrical activity. The procedure is called an electroencephalogram, or EEG.

Once the system is operational, the person’s brainwaves are displayed in real time on a computer screen. The therapist then asks the patient to do different activities, which alter their brainwave activity. Over time, patients learn how it feels when they change their brainwaves.

“Neurofeedback therapy, also known as EEG biofeedback, involves training individuals to regulate their brainwave patterns by providing real-time feedback on their brain activity,” Dr. Heathman says.

Patients typically play computer games or watch movies during sessions, as they try to complete tasks that their therapist gives them. Throughout their session, the electroencephalograph records their brainwave activity.

When brainwave changes show that a patient is concentrating on the task at hand, they’re rewarded. The movie that they’re watching may transform from black-and-white to color, for example, or they may earn bonus points or melodic sound effects within the computer game that they’re playing.

Because neurofeedback therapy provides immediate feedback to patients about their brainwave activity, patients may learn to recognize what they’re doing to improve their focus or achieve other positive outcomes in the moment.

“Essentially, your brain gets to see its own activity in real time and learns from it,” says Ryan Sultán, MD, a mental health physician who specializes in ADHD. Sultán is a professor of clinical psychiatry at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City and medical director of Integrative Psych, a private mental health clinic in New York City.

After many neurofeedback therapy sessions, it may become second-nature for patients to favorably alter their brainwaves during sessions and beyond.

“With practice and advanced technique, eventually you can replicate the response without needing the feedback,” Dr. Heathman says.

Goals of neurofeedback therapy for ADHD

There are five common types of brainwaves: alpha, beta, gamma, delta and theta. Each is linked to a different type of brain functioning or state of mind.

Many people with ADHD experience more theta brainwaves and fewer beta brainwaves than people without ADHD. Neurofeedback therapy may help to alter the ratio.

“A common goal in neurofeedback for ADHD is to decrease slower theta waves, which are associated with daydreaming or lack of attention, and increase faster beta waves, associated with focus and attention,” Dr. Sultán says. “In real life, these changes might show up as being able to concentrate on your homework or work project for longer periods of time without getting distracted. Or maybe you’ll find you’re not acting as impulsively as before, like interrupting others less during conversations. And perhaps you’ll feel less restless in situations where you need to sit still.”

When neurofeedback therapy is effective, brainwave changes should help patients with ADHD self-regulate more effectively.

“Individuals undergoing neurofeedback can expect improved focus and impulse control and reduce distractibility and to have overall better executive function,” says Soffia Palsdottir, PsyD, chief psychologist at the Mental Health Center of America in Phoenix.

How neurofeedback therapy impacts ADHD, according to research

Several studies have examined the impact of neurofeedback therapy on ADHD. The results have been varied.

“A 2012 review of research suggested that neurofeedback could be as effective as stimulant medications for some people with ADHD,” Dr. Sultán says. “Other researchers aren’t as convinced. For example, a meta-analysis from 2014 published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry argued that the overall quality of evidence supporting neurofeedback is still kind of shaky. They pointed out some flaws in study designs and a lack of consistency in the results.”

More research is needed to verify whether or not neurofeedback therapy is beneficial for people with ADHD — and if it is, why it’s effective.

“Research suggests that neurofeedback therapy may lead to changes in brainwave patterns and functional connectivity within the brain, but the precise mechanisms and their impact on ADHD symptoms are still not fully understood,” Dr. Heathman says. “(And) while some studies suggest potential benefits, the overall evidence is mixed and inconclusive.”

Who may benefit from neurofeedback therapy

Therapists may offer neurofeedback therapy to children or adults with ADHD. Many more studies have examined the effects of neurofeedback therapy on children with ADHD. But adults with ADHD may also benefit from learning to alter their brainwave activity.

There are no formal guidelines or recommendations about neurotherapy feedback for people with ADHD, but it may not be ideal for young children.

“Neurofeedback therapy does require a level of focus and participation to learn, understand and practice the techniques,” Dr. Heathman says. “Those with high levels of hyperactivity, young age or lack of engagement can slow or inhibit its usefulness.”

Caveats before trying neurofeedback therapy

If you decide to try neurofeedback therapy for yourself or your child, don’t expect the treatment option to be a quick fix.

“Both kids and adults with ADHD might potentially benefit from neurofeedback,” Dr. Sultán says. “But it’s important to note that neurofeedback isn’t like a magic wand that instantly erases ADHD symptoms. It often requires a good number of sessions — typically between 20 to 40 — over several months. But on the plus side, it’s a non-invasive approach and doesn’t have the side effects that some people experience with medication.”

The cost of neurofeedback therapy may keep many people from signing up for sessions. A typical session may cost $250; health insurance policies often don’t cover it. Practitioners may recommend 15 to 30 or 40 sessions, with two or more sessions weekly. Over time, the therapy may cost thousands of dollars out-of-pocket, with no guarantee that it will be effective.

Neurofeedback therapy isn’t intended to replace ADHD medication or therapy. Doctors or therapists may recommend that you try it alongside other ADHD treatments to decrease symptoms further.

“Best results are likely to be obtained when (it’s) used in conjunction with medication and/or behavior therapy,” Palsdottir says.