Neurofeedback is a non-invasive brain training technique that helps individuals learn to regulate their brain activity. It’s like a workout for the brain—using real-time feedback from an electroencephalogram (EEG), people learn how to produce healthier brainwave patterns. Recently, researchers have begun exploring neurofeedback for autism as a way to target the brain’s electrical activity and support emotional and behavioral regulation.
In teens with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), one common brain pattern seen during rest is reduced alpha activity—a type of brainwave associated with calm, relaxed states. Too little alpha activity may contribute to emotional distress or difficulties in focus and self-regulation. This has led scientists to ask: could increasing alpha activity through neurofeedback help?
A Multi-Level Study of Neurofeedback for Autism in Teens
A new randomized controlled trial in Austria studied 41 adolescents with ASD. One group received slow cortical potential (SCP) neurofeedback training over 24 sessions, while the control group continued their usual treatment. Researchers measured changes in the teens’ brain activity using resting-state EEG (rsEEG) and also collected parent and self-report surveys on mood and autism symptoms.
The results were promising. Teens who received neurofeedback showed an increase in alpha brain activity, while those in the control group showed a decrease. This shift in brainwaves wasn’t just a technical detail—it was linked to how the teens felt. Increases in alpha power were associated with more positive emotions, and decreases in delta activity were tied to less negative mood.
Why Alpha and Delta Brainwaves Matter
Alpha and delta brainwaves play different roles in how we feel and function. Alpha waves are linked to mental clarity, focus, and relaxation, while high levels of delta waves in waking states may indicate emotional distress or dysregulation.
The study found that teens with lower alpha activity at baseline had more severe autism symptoms and reported more negative feelings. After neurofeedback training, increased alpha and decreased delta were connected with emotional improvement—suggesting a real mind-brain link.
Neurofeedback for Autism: An Emerging Therapy to Watch
This study highlights the value of using multi-level treatment outcome evaluation—looking not just at how a person feels, but also at what their brain is doing. As neurofeedback becomes more accessible, it could become a valuable addition to autism care, especially for adolescents seeking better emotional regulation and quality of life.
While more research is needed, especially across longer time periods and larger groups, the early signs are encouraging. For now, neurofeedback for autism offers a new and exciting path in the growing field of brain-based mental health treatments.
Citations
- Auer, G. A., Plener, P. L., Poustka, L., & Konicar, L. (2025). Multi-level treatment outcome evaluation in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, 19(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13034-025-00909-1
- Micoulaud-Franchi, J. A., & Fovet, T. (2018). Neurofeedback in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 9, 164. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2018.00164