For Kids & Teens

Neurofeedback for Kids & Teens
in Encinitas & San Marcos, CA

From ADHD and anxiety to autism and learning challenges — neurofeedback offers a safe, drug-free way to help young brains self-regulate and thrive.

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Child receiving neurofeedback brain training at North County Neurofeedback Encinitas
Ages 5+ Brain Training
5–8

Young Children

Sensory regulation, attention, emotional outbursts, ASD support

9–12

Pre-Teens

ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, social challenges

13–17

Teenagers

Depression, PTSD, performance anxiety, focus, sleep

Susan Addams
Othmer Method Certified Educational Therapist Gentle with children
A Word to Parents

You've tried everything.
We get it.

Susan Addams came to neurofeedback the same way many of our parents do — through her own child. One of her children had severe behavioral and learning challenges. She searched for answers, found the Othmer Method, and it changed everything.

"Now I pay forward the gift of getting my kid back — by giving others theirs." That calling became THINK! Therapy Center and now North County Neurofeedback.

Neurofeedback is gentle, painless, and often enjoyable for children — they watch a video or play a simple game while their brain does the learning. No needles, no medication, no side effects.

"Parents tell us their children seem like different kids — calmer, more present, more themselves. Teachers notice before families even mention what they've started."

— Susan Addams, Founder

Who We Help

Conditions we address in children & teens

Neurofeedback is one of the most versatile tools available for young brains — from early developmental challenges to teen anxiety and peak academic performance.

Children · Ages 5–12

ADHD & Attention Difficulties

Reduce impulsivity and distractibility without stimulant medication.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Address sensory dysregulation, meltdowns, anxiety, and social engagement.

Sensory Processing Disorder

Train the brain to better integrate and tolerate sensory input.

Learning Differences

Support dyslexia, dysgraphia, and processing disorders alongside educational therapy.

Anxiety & Emotional Dysregulation

Help children build an internal baseline of calm they can access on their own.

Sleep Problems

Address night terrors, trouble falling asleep, and restless sleep patterns.

Teenagers · Ages 13–17

Depression & Mood Instability

Support emotional regulation and resilience during formative teen years.

Anxiety & Social Anxiety

Reduce the constant hum of worry that many teens describe as their "normal."

PTSD & Trauma

Regulate the nervous system gently without requiring verbal processing of trauma.

Performance Anxiety

For athletes, musicians, and students — train the brain to stay calm and focused under pressure.

Concussion Recovery

Support neuroplasticity and cognitive recovery following sports injuries or head trauma.

ADD / Focus & Organization

Build sustainable executive function for school, life, and beyond.

The Experience

What it's like for your child

Kids often love sessions. Here's why — and what a typical course of care looks like.

Child with EEG sensors watching a movie during neurofeedback session
"They get to watch their favourite show. The brain training happens in the background."
01

Free Parent Consult

We talk with you first — your child's history, challenges, and what you've already tried. We listen carefully before making any recommendations.

02

First Session Together

Your child meets Susan, gets comfortable with the space, and we do a gentle intake. The first session often includes a short trial run so your child can experience it themselves.

03

Watching & Relaxing

Sessions are 30 minutes. Your child watches a movie or plays a simple game. The sensors are painless — just sticky pads. Many kids look forward to coming.

04

You'll Notice First

Parents often spot changes before their child does — a calmer morning, fewer meltdowns, better sleep, more engagement. Teachers frequently notice too.

What Parents Say

Families who found their way forward

We tried everything for our son's ADHD. This was the only thing that worked without making him feel medicated. His teachers noticed before we even told them what we were doing.

The K. Family
Child · ADHD, age 9

My daughter has ASD and nothing had worked. After 10 sessions the daily meltdowns had reduced by half. She said she felt "less loud inside." That broke my heart open in the best way.

Lee C.
Parent · ASD, age 8

Our teenager was drowning in anxiety and wouldn't see a therapist. Neurofeedback was something she agreed to try. Three months later she's sleeping, she's engaged, she's herself again.

Anonymous Parent
Teen · Anxiety & depression, age 15
Parent Questions

Answers for concerned parents

The questions we hear most often from families considering neurofeedback for the first time.

Is it safe for young children? +
Yes — completely. The sensors only read brainwaves; nothing is transmitted into the brain. The American Academy of Pediatrics has cited no significant contraindications. We have worked with children as young as five.
Will my child cooperate? +
Most children take to it naturally — especially because they get to watch a movie or play a simple game. We work at your child's pace. If they're hesitant, we take extra time at the first session to make sure they feel safe and comfortable.
How quickly will we see results? +
Many parents notice changes within 6–10 sessions. Common early signs include better sleep, calmer mornings, fewer emotional outbursts, or improved focus at school. The changes deepen over 15–20 sessions.
Can it be used alongside medication? +
Yes. Neurofeedback can be used alongside medication, therapy, or educational support. Some families find that as the brain self-regulates, they are able to reduce medication in consultation with their prescribing physician — but that is always their decision, not ours.
Does it work for autism? +
We see meaningful results with ASD clients regularly — particularly around anxiety, sensory dysregulation, emotional outbursts, and attention. Every child's brain is different, and protocols are fully individualized.
What's the connection to THINK! Therapy Center? +
North County Neurofeedback is Susan Addams' sister practice. THINK! Therapy Center combines neurofeedback with Educational Therapy and Feuerstein Instrumental Enrichment — a powerful combination for children with learning differences. We can refer between practices when appropriate.

Give your child's brain
the chance to reset.

Start with a free, no-pressure phone consultation. We'll listen, answer your questions honestly, and help you decide if this is right for your family.

Call (858) 883-9000 Send Us a Message