Home / BrainCore Therapy / Conditions / Autism Spectrum
Dysregulated brainwaves can be closely associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Individuals with ASD often exhibit atypical patterns of brainwave activity, which can contribute to the core symptoms of the disorder, including difficulties with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.
Research suggests that individuals with ASD may have alterations in various brainwave frequencies, such as increased theta activity and reduced alpha and beta activity. These dysregulated brainwave patterns may impact sensory processing, attention, emotional regulation, and cognitive functioning.
Neurofeedback training has shown promise in helping children on the autism spectrum, with numerous clinicians and research studies supporting its effectiveness. Parents often observe initial improvements in their children’s ability to manage emotions, stay calm, and reduce overwhelming feelings.
One significant study, “Assessment-Guided Neurofeedback for Autistic Spectrum Disorder,” conducted by Dr. Robert Coben and Dr. Ilean Padolsky, involved 37 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The results indicated improved ASD symptom ratings for 89% of the participants based on the ATEC scale, as reported by parents.
This scale encompasses various symptoms associated with ASD, indicating the potential of neurofeedback to alleviate these symptoms and improve overall functioning in children on the autism spectrum.
BrainCore Therapy neurofeedback employs biofeedback technology to promote healthier brain patterns. In Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), the brain often exhibits dysregulation, with excessive connectivity in some areas and deficient connectivity in others.
Research suggests that neurofeedback can help regulate brain function by targeting areas of abnormal connectivity, leading to symptom reduction and positive outcomes. It’s important to note that neurofeedback does not treat or cure ASD but aims to alleviate symptoms by enhancing brainwave patterns.
What improvements have been noted with Neurofeedback in ASD?
Unlike medication or supplements, BrainCore Therapy neurofeedback offers benefits beyond the training period. Sustainable outcomes are achieved as the brain learns healthier patterns, akin to learning to ride a bike.
The goal is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families by improving cortical function and promoting self-regulation. With no long-term side effects, neurofeedback, combined with a comprehensive approach, including nutritional support, offers lasting improvements in areas of dysfunction.
Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. The “spectrum” means that symptoms vary widely, from mild to more significant challenges. Some individuals may struggle with maintaining eye contact, experiencing sensory sensitivities, or exhibiting repetitive behaviors, while others excel in areas such as memory or problem-solving. BrainCore neurofeedback does not treat or cure autism, but it can support brain regulation, helping individuals improve focus, emotional balance, and adaptability in daily life.
Research shows that many people with autism have irregular brainwave patterns. For example, excessively slow waves may interfere with focus and processing, while underactive alpha activity may make relaxation difficult. These imbalances can affect attention, communication, and emotional regulation. BrainCore neurofeedback identifies these patterns through EEG mapping and uses training exercises to encourage healthier rhythms. By guiding the brain toward balance, individuals may experience improvements in self-regulation, focus, and stress tolerance.
BrainCore neurofeedback provides real-time feedback, enabling the brain to learn self-regulation. For individuals with autism, this training may reduce anxiety, improve sleep, support emotional regulation, and enhance focus. Over time, as brainwave patterns shift toward healthier rhythms, many families notice improvements in behavior, communication, and social engagement. While results vary, neurofeedback provides a safe, non-invasive way to strengthen the brain’s ability to adapt and function more effectively in everyday situations
BrainCore neurofeedback is non-invasive and drug-free, making it safe for children. Sensors placed on the scalp only measure brainwave activity; nothing is sent into the brain. Sessions are comfortable and often engaging, since they use videos or games to provide feedback. Some children may need time to get used to the process, but most adapt well. Because it relies on the brain’s natural ability to learn, neurofeedback is considered a gentle option for supporting kids on the spectrum.
A session begins with placing sensors on the scalp to record brain activity. The child or adult then watches a video or plays a computer game that responds to their brainwaves in real time. When healthier patterns appear, the game or video provides rewards, reinforcing those rhythms. Sessions last 30–45 minutes and are painless. Over time, repeated training helps the brain adopt more balanced activity, which may support improvements in mood, attention, and regulation.
While BrainCore neurofeedback does not directly teach communication or social skills, it supports the brain’s ability to regulate emotions, focus, and stress responses — all of which can make social interactions easier. Families often report that as children become calmer and more focused, they engage more comfortably in conversations and daily activities. These improvements can complement other therapies, creating a stronger foundation for learning and development of communication skills.
The number of sessions varies, but most people benefit from 20 to 40 sessions. Some children or adults may show changes in sleep, calmness, or focus within the first 10–15 sessions. Because autism is a long-term condition, neurofeedback works best as a consistent, structured program. Once the brain learns healthier patterns, results often last, though some individuals may benefit from periodic maintenance sessions. Consistency and patience are essential for achieving meaningful and lasting improvements.
Many individuals on the spectrum experience high levels of anxiety or emotional overwhelm. BrainCore neurofeedback helps calm overactive brainwave patterns associated with stress, while strengthening rhythms linked to relaxation and focus. As regulation improves, some families notice fewer meltdowns, quicker recovery from stress, and more consistent moods. While it does not eliminate challenges, neurofeedback often makes daily life smoother and more manageable for both the individual and their family.
BrainCore neurofeedback does not replace speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, or medical care. Instead, it works alongside them by strengthening the brain’s ability to self-regulate. When the brain is calmer and more focused, individuals may respond better to other therapies. This complementary approach helps create a more complete support system, enhancing progress across multiple areas of development.
Results are often lasting because neurofeedback works through neuroplasticity — the brain’s ability to form and maintain new connections. Once healthier brainwave patterns are learned, they tend to remain stable, much like learning to ride a bike. Some individuals may benefit from occasional tune-up sessions during periods of stress or change. Many families report that improvements in focus, mood, and regulation continue well beyond the training program, giving long-term support for daily functioning.