Frequently Asked Questions

The assessment includes cognitive, sensory and physical activities that identify areas of development that need strengthening. These critical areas of development are at the root of our ability to learn, follow instructions, manage mood and behavior, and pay attention. From the results of the assessment, our team will create a plan focused on driving improvements to meet your child's unique needs.

The program length is tailored to each child's unique needs. An initial assessment will help determine your child's program needs and cost. You'll also get a better understanding of how your child's challenges can improve. To schedule an assessment, complete our form here and we will reach out to you.

People of all ages can benefit from the Brain Balance Program! We offer two formats, one that is designed for ages 4-18, and another that is geared towards adults.

Yes, adults from anywhere in the world can participate in and benefit from the Brain Balance Program. Learn more about the program.

The Brain Balance Program is the leading drug-free, non-medical program designed to help kids improve focus, behavior, social skills, anxiety, and academic performance.

Harvard University’s McLean Hospital completed a study which demonstrated that the Brain Balance Program is as effective as stimulant medication in alleviating ADHD symptoms among children. Cambridge Brain Sciences also collaborated with Brain Balance on a study the results of which show that children who completed three months of the Brain Balance Program displayed significant improvements in cognition, particularly in areas of memory, reasoning, verbal ability, and concentration.

Learn more about our ongoing research.

Harvard University’s McLean Hospital completed a study which demonstrated that the Brain Balance Program is as effective as stimulant medication in alleviating ADHD symptoms among children. Cambridge Brain Sciences also collaborated with Brain Balance on a study the results of which show that children who completed three months of the Brain Balance Program displayed significant improvements in cognition, particularly in areas of memory, reasoning, verbal ability, and concentration.

Learn more about our ongoing research.

The Brain Balance program has been shown to improve focus, attention, behavior, emotional regulation, and executive functioning in both children and adults. Multiple peer-reviewed studies, including research published in Psychiatry Research and Frontiers in Psychology, have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in key developmental outcomes for participants in the Brain Balance program.

Parents report significant improvements in their child’s wellbeing following the completion of the Brain Balance Program including:

• 53% Lift in feelings of happiness
• 53% Lift in child's academic follow-through and motivation
• 51% Lift in school performance and test scores
• 49% Lift in feelings of anxiety
• 42% Lift in social confidence

Brain Balance continues to thrive with 68 locations nationwide as of 2025 and a growing suite of online and in-center programs. Brain Balance continues to serve families and adults looking for non-drug options to improve focus, behavior, and cognitive performance.

There is no “scandal” involving Brain Balance. However, we recognize that the term sometimes appears in online searches due to outdated media coverage or skeptical commentary from the early days of the program, before our research had fully caught up to our outcomes.

In those earlier years, Brain Balance was met with some skepticism, a natural and expected response to any innovative, non-traditional approach. Some of that skepticism was fueled by limited early data and media articles that did not reflect the evolving nature of our work. Since that time, however, Brain Balance has undergone a significant transformation, both in leadership and in our investment in research and scientific validation.

Today, Brain Balance is supported by a growing body of peer-reviewed studies published in reputable scientific journals. These studies demonstrate statistically significant improvements in core areas such as attention, working memory, emotional regulation, and behavior, without the use of medication.

Brain Balance is not a medical or clinical therapy. It's a non-medical, drug-free, integrative program rooted in neuroscience and designed to strengthen developmental pathways that impact learning, behavior, and emotional regulation. We take transparency seriously and encourage families and professionals to review the latest research before making a decision.

If you’re looking for science-backed, whole-person support, especially for challenges like ADHD, anxiety, and focus, Brain Balance may be a valuable option. We are proud of how far the program has come and are committed to continuous improvement, evidence-informed practices, and empowering families with better outcomes.

Recent Peer-Reviewed Research on Brain Balance Includes:

Psychiatry Research

Teicher MH, Bolger E, Hafezi P, Garcia LCH, McGreenery CE, Weiser L, Ohashi K, Khan A. Open assessment of the therapeutic and rate-dependent effects of brain balance center® and interactive metronome® exercises on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry Res. 2023 Jan;319:114973. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114973. Epub 2022 Nov 21. PMID: 36446221.

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Jackson, R., Jordan, J.T. Reliable change in parent-rated scores on the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales® from pre- to post-participation in the Brain Balance® program. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 9, 315 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-022-01333-y

Journal for the Study of Education and Development

Jackson, R., & Glanz, R. M. (2023). The Brain Balance® programme improves attention and classroom behaviour in students with attentional and developmental challenges in a school setting (El programa Brain Balance® mejora la atención y el comportamiento en el aula de estudiantes con dificultades de atención y de desarrollo en un entorno escolar). Journal for the Study of Education and Development, 46(4), 914–949. https://doi.org/10.1080/02103702.2023.2235802

Humanities & Social Sciences Communications

​​Jackson, R., Jordan, J.T. Reliable change in parent-rated scores on the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales® from pre- to post-participation in the Brain Balance® program. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 9, 315 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-022-01333-y

Journal of Mental Health & Clinical Psychology

Jackson, R., & Robertson, J. M. (2020). A retrospective review of parent-reported anxiety and emotional functioning in children with developmental challenges after participation in the Brain Balance® Program. Journal of Mental Health & Clinical Psychology, 4(1), 10–20. https://doi.org/10.29245/2578-2959/2019/1.1192

Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research

Jackson, Rebecca, and Conor J. Wild. 2021. “Effect of the Brain Balance Program® on Cognitive Performance in Children and Adolescents With Developmental and Attentional Issues”. Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research 33 (6):27-41. https://doi.org/10.9734/jammr/2021/v33i630857

Brain Balance offers a program for adults that focuses on cognitive performance, stress management, and emotional regulation. Adults participating in the program report improvements in focus, memory, mood, and sleep quality.

The program includes a combination of sensory-motor exercises, cognitive activities, rhythm and coordination tasks, and hemispheric integration techniques. These are designed to strengthen brain connectivity and improve self-regulation.

Brain Balance is not therapy in the traditional clinical sense. It is a non-medical, brain-based program designed to improve brain connectivity through movement, cognitive exercises, and lifestyle support. It is often used as a complement to traditional therapies or educational services.

While no program is identical, there are other brain-based programs, such as Integrated Listening Systems (iLS), Interactive Metronome, and neurofeedback. What makes Brain Balance unique is its integrative, whole-person approach that combines multiple modalities in a personalized program.

Brain Balance was founded in 2006. Since then, it has served tens of thousands of families through in-center and online programs and has expanded its research efforts and professional collaborations.

No. Brain Balance is a non-medical program and does not require or conduct drug testing as part of participation.

Memory can be improved through consistent cognitive training, movement, and stress reduction. In the Brain Balance program, activities that combine coordination, timing, and working memory tasks are among the most effective for boosting brain function.

Brain Balance does not prescribe or recommend medication. Instead, the program helps reduce overthinking and anxiety through brain-based exercises that support stress regulation, sleep, and focus.

Brain Balance exercises include activities that improve rhythm, timing, coordination, and sensory processing. These may involve balancing on a stability ball, practicing eye-tracking, doing core exercises, or engaging in hand-eye coordination tasks.

Yes, when families commit to the program as designed, the results can be life-changing.

The Brain Balance program is built on decades of developmental and neurological science. It combines sensory-motor activities, cognitive skill training, and nutrition guidance to strengthen the brain’s ability to process and respond to information.

Research published in Psychiatry Research and Humanities and Social Sciences Communications has shown significant improvements in attention, behavior, mood, and academic skills for participants who completed the program. Our own outcome data—and the stories of thousands of families—mirror these results.

The key? Consistency. Participants who follow the plan and complete all program elements are the ones who see the greatest changes, often noticing improvements in focus, self-regulation, and confidence within weeks.

See the research ›

The Brain Balance Program is available onsite or at home with virtual check-ins. If you do not see a Brain Balance location near you, please inquire here and our team will reach out to you to discuss the Brain Balance program.

Yes. Brain Balance offers a home-based program. It includes activities in movement, sensory integration, brain-based nutrition, and cognitive development. Families can complete the program from the comfort of their home with virtual coaching support available.

Don’t see a location near you? That’s OK! You can still enroll in the Brain Balance Program. Simply fill out this form and we’ll show you how you can get started.

Families from across the globe are enrolled in the Brain Balance Program! To schedule an assessment, complete our form here and we will reach out to you.

Since Brain Balance is a non-medical program and does not provide a diagnosis, it is not covered by health insurance. We do not require a diagnosis for enrollment. Our staff are trained and certified through Brain Balance, and may receive additional certifications as Board Certified Cognitive Coaches and Behavior Management through outside accrediting agencies.

Brain Balance is not typically covered by traditional health insurance; however, there are additional ways families offset the cost:

• Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are commonly used to pay for the program.
• Third-party funding, such as Medicaid waivers or state-funded grants, may be available depending on your state and your child’s eligibility. These programs vary widely by location and criteria, so it’s worth exploring local options or consulting with your Brain Balance center for guidance.
• Many families seek educational or therapeutic funding options through school districts or community resources, particularly when the program supports learning or developmental goals.

The Brain Balance Program is the leading drug-free program designed to help kids improve focus, behavior, social skills, anxiety, and academic performance. The program length and protocols are tailored to each child's unique needs, and the program cost varies based on these factors.

An initial assessment will help determine your child's program needs and cost. The cognitive assessment, required before beginning training, costs between $29 and $299, depending on the location and program offering. In the assessment you’ll get a better understanding of how your child's challenges can be improved. To schedule an assessment, complete our form here and we will reach out to you.

Many families report that the transformation they see in their child or themselves is life-changing. Brain Balance is an investment in long-term well-being and development. Outcomes include improved focus, behavior, learning, and social skills—all without medication.

Yes. Many families have successfully used Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) to pay for Brain Balance services. We recommend checking with your provider to confirm eligibility.

The cost of the Brain Balance program varies based on the format you choose (in-center or virtual) and the level of support that’s right for your family. Most families invest several thousand dollars in the full program. Flexible payment plans and financing options are available to help make the program more accessible.

What Does That Investment Include?

Specialized Tools and Technology

Our program uses proprietary cognitive training, sensory-motor tools, and FDA-registered eye-tracking technology—tools not typically found in school settings or standard interventions.

Individualized Coaching and Professional Support

Each session is led by a trained Brain Balance coach working directly with your child—either one-on-one or in a small group setting with a high staff-to-student ratio. Our team is grounded in a multidisciplinary approach that combines neuroscience, movement, cognitive development, and nutrition to support whole-child progress.

Support That Extends Beyond the Program

For a full year after your program ends, you’ll have access to digital tools, resources, and ongoing support. We also collaborate with your child’s school team—teachers, counselors, and pediatricians—to ensure progress continues in every environment.

A Program Built for Independence, Not Ongoing Visits

Brain Balance is designed to help your child grow beyond the challenges—not stay stuck in them. While some approaches rely on long-term visits, our model is focused on building the skills, confidence, and resilience your child needs to succeed independently.

The Ultimate Benefit

This isn’t just an investment in a program. It’s an investment in your child’s future. Our goal is simple: to help your child unlock their full potential and live the life they deserve—confident, capable, and connected.

Some families may be able to deduct educational or wellness-related expenses. We recommend consulting a tax advisor to determine if Brain Balance qualifies based on your individual circumstances.

At Brain Balance we can help you or your child reach their full potential. Individuals do not require a diagnosis in order to be enrolled in the program.

The Brain Balance program has been shown to improve focus, attention, behavior, emotional regulation, and executive functioning in both children and adults. Multiple peer-reviewed studies, including research published in Psychiatry Research and Frontiers in Psychology, have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in key developmental outcomes for participants in the Brain Balance program.

Parents report significant improvements in their child’s wellbeing following the completion of the Brain Balance Program including:

• 53% Lift in feelings of happiness
• 53% Lift in child's academic follow-through and motivation
• 51% Lift in school performance and test scores
• 49% Lift in feelings of anxiety
• 42% Lift in social confidence

Brain Balance has been specifically studied in children and adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and the results are compelling. Research published in peer-reviewed scientific journals shows that participation in the Brain Balance program is associated with significant improvements in attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, executive functioning, and even parent-reported anxiety — all common challenges for individuals with ADHD.

Key Findings from Independent and Peer-Reviewed Studies:

Psychiatry Research (2023): A study conducted in partnership with McLean Hospital (an affiliate of Harvard Medical School) evaluated the effects of Brain Balance and Interactive Metronome exercises on children with ADHD. Using both behavioral assessments and objective EEG brainwave data, researchers found:

• Statistically significant improvements in inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptom
• Greater improvements in children who completed the full Brain Balance program.
• Rate-dependent therapeutic effects, meaning children with more severe symptoms often saw greater benefits DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114973

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications (2022): A study using the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales® showed that after completing the program:

• A large percentage of participants demonstrated “reliable change”, meaning clinically and statistically significant gain
• Improvements were observed in attention, working memory, task initiation, and emotional regulation DOI: 10.1057/s41599-022-01333-y

Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research (2021): A retrospective analysis found that children with attentional challenges showed measurable improvements in executive function, working memory, and cognitive flexibility after completing the Brain Balance program. DOI: 10.9734/jammr/2021/v33i630857

Journal for the Study of Education and Development (2023): In a school-based study, students demonstrated improved attention and classroom behavior following participation in Brain Balance. DOI: 10.1080/02103702.2023.2235802

What Makes Brain Balance Different?

Brain Balance is a non-medical, drug-free program designed to strengthen brain connectivity and developmental functions that influence attention, behavior, and emotional regulation. It combines:

• Physical and sensory-motor exercises
• Cognitive training
• Nutrition and lifestyle coaching
• Personalized support plans

This integrative model focuses on addressing the underlying causes of ADHD symptoms, rather than just managing surface behaviors.

Like all interventions, individual results may vary. Outcomes are influenced by many factors, including age, severity of symptoms, consistency of participation, and engagement at home. While the research is promising, Brain Balance is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and we encourage families to review the science and speak with a program director to determine the best fit.

Bottom Line:

For families looking for a non-drug option to support attention, academic, , Brain Balance offers a science-backed, whole-person approach that has helped thousands of children improve focus, self-regulation, and executive function.

A research team at McLean Hospital, a Harvard Medical School affiliate, conducted an independent study evaluating the effects of Brain Balance exercises combined with Interactive Metronome® (BB/IM) on children diagnosed with ADHD. The results were published in the peer-reviewed journal Psychiatry Research and further detailed in a comprehensive white paper.

Key findings from the study:

• Comparable to Medication: The researchers found that the effects of Brain Balance training were similar to the rate-dependent effects of low-dose stimulant medication (methylphenidate) — the most commonly prescribed ADHD treatment. In fact, Brain Balance participants responded more consistently and predictably than those treated with medication.
• Statistically Significant Improvements:
  • Parent ratings on the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale (CPRS-R) showed a large therapeutic effect size, with meaningful improvements in inattention, hyperactivity, and oppositional behavior.
  • Clinician ratings using the ADHD-RS also showed statistically significant reductions in ADHD symptoms, especially in hyperactivity and impulsivity.
• Objective Measures:
  • On the Quotient ADHD System, which uses motion tracking and cognitive testing, children showed measurable improvements in attention and reductions in hyperactivity.
  • These results demonstrated a rate-dependent effect, meaning that children with the most severe symptoms saw the greatest benefit — mirroring how stimulant medications work.
• Functional Brain Changes:
  • Using functional MRI (fMRI), the study showed that Brain Balance training led to measurable changes in brain connectivity, particularly in the default mode network, salience network, cerebellum, and hippocampus.
  • Many of the brain connectivity differences between children with ADHD and typically developing peers were no longer statistically significant after completing the Brain Balance program.
• Sustained Attention and Executive Function:
  • On the Mackworth Clock Test and Tower of London (tests of sustained attention and executive planning), participants showed improved performance, further suggesting gains in cognitive control.

Bottom Line: The study concluded that Brain Balance and Interactive Metronome training had clinical, behavioral, and neurobiological effects comparable to stimulant medication, but through a non-pharmacological, drug-free method.

Yes. Brain Balance is supported by a growing body of research published in scientific journals. The program is based on neurodevelopmental and functional neuroscience principles and has shown measurable changes in brain activity and behavior.

Recent Peer-Reviewed Research on Brain Balance Includes:

Psychiatry Research

Teicher MH, Bolger E, Hafezi P, Garcia LCH, McGreenery CE, Weiser L, Ohashi K, Khan A. Open assessment of the therapeutic and rate-dependent effects of brain balance center® and interactive metronome® exercises on children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatry Res. 2023 Jan;319:114973. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2022.114973. Epub 2022 Nov 21. PMID: 36446221.

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications

Jackson, R., Jordan, J.T. Reliable change in parent-rated scores on the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales® from pre- to post-participation in the Brain Balance® program. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 9, 315 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-022-01333-y

Journal for the Study of Education and Development

Jackson, R., & Glanz, R. M. (2023). The Brain Balance® programme improves attention and classroom behaviour in students with attentional and developmental challenges in a school setting (El programa Brain Balance® mejora la atención y el comportamiento en el aula de estudiantes con dificultades de atención y de desarrollo en un entorno escolar). Journal for the Study of Education and Development, 46(4), 914–949. https://doi.org/10.1080/02103702.2023.2235802

Humanities & Social Sciences Communications

​​Jackson, R., Jordan, J.T. Reliable change in parent-rated scores on the Brown Attention-Deficit Disorder Scales® from pre- to post-participation in the Brain Balance® program. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 9, 315 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-022-01333-y

Journal of Mental Health & Clinical Psychology

Jackson, R., & Robertson, J. M. (2020). A retrospective review of parent-reported anxiety and emotional functioning in children with developmental challenges after participation in the Brain Balance® Program. Journal of Mental Health & Clinical Psychology, 4(1), 10–20. https://doi.org/10.29245/2578-2959/2019/1.1192

Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research

Jackson, Rebecca, and Conor J. Wild. 2021. “Effect of the Brain Balance Program® on Cognitive Performance in Children and Adolescents With Developmental and Attentional Issues”. Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research 33 (6):27-41. https://doi.org/10.9734/jammr/2021/v33i630857