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Brain Stimulation Therapy for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Medically reviewed by \"\"Morgan Blair – Written by \"\"Allan Schwartz, Ph.D. and \"\"Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.

Published on · Updated on

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) occurs, at least in part, because of abnormalities in the functioning of certain brain processes. For instance, individuals with ADHD have alterations in the functioning of a chemical messenger called dopamine within the brain. Because brain abnormalities are implicated in ADHD, brain stimulation techniques may be beneficial for treating it.

\"A

Key takeaways

  • Dopamine-related differences in ADHD can affect attention, motivation, reward processing, and impulse control.
  • Difficulties with self-regulation can contribute to procrastination and cycles of reduced self-esteem.
  • Exercise, behavioral therapy, medication, and supportive lifestyle habits can form part of individualized ADHD care.

The Role of Dopamine in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

\nADHD and dopamine go hand-in-hand, and it’s important to understand this before learning about ADHD stimulation techniques for the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, within the brain. It’s involved in the brain’s reward system, and certain dopamine receptors are specifically involved in attention and impulse control⁠ [3].\n

In individuals with ADHD, dopamine dysfunction occurs in several brain regions, resulting in cognitive impairments. Problems with dopamine function in the brain can cause cognitive deficits and reduce motivation to complete mentally challenging tasks. People with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in their brains, resulting in characteristic ADHD symptoms, such as issues with focusing and learning difficulties⁠[1].

\nADHD dopamine deficiency can be the result of genetic abnormalities. Research has indicated that alterations in gene codes that determine the density of dopamine transporters can lead to ADHD. Certain medications developed to treat ADHD, like methylphenidate, work by increasing dopamine levels⁠[1].\n

The Role of Brain Stimulation in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

\nPeople with ADHD often engage in dopamine-seeking behavior, meaning they act in a way that increases stimulation in the brain. This process aligns with optimal stimulation theory, which says that people want to maintain an ideal level of arousal.

In those with ADHD, hyperactive behaviors can help with achieving the right level of arousal.\nResearchers have found that children with ADHD are more active when they’re in environments that provide low levels of stimulation. This supports the argument that hyperactivity is a stimulation-seeking behavior⁠[4].\n

The Reward System in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Brains

\nIn people with ADHD, the brain’s reward system typically works differently compared to those without the psychiatric disorder. For instance, the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine both play a role in motivation and reward processing.

With impairments in these systems, people with ADHD are less sensitive to delayed rewards. This means they prefer instant gratification over working toward a reward they’ll receive in the future, such as receiving incentives through achieving targets at work or school⁠ [5].\n

\n

This preference for immediate rewards is linked to impulsive behaviors and challenges in long-term planning. This occurs because the reduced response to delayed rewards makes it very difficult for a person with ADHD to prioritize future goals over the pleasure that comes from fulfilling present desires.

Consequently, those with ADHD have difficulty with tasks that require sustained effort, which interferes with effective planning and working toward long-term goals⁠[6].\n

Self-Regulation Challenges in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

\nBecause of dopamine deficiencies, people with ADHD often struggle with self-regulation. This deficiency impairs their ability to sustain attention, delay gratification, and manage impulses, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks.

For instance, dopamine deficiencies can lead to problems with procrastination, particularly if the task at hand is not especially enjoyable or stimulating for the person with ADHD. If a task isn’t interesting, it can be difficult for someone with ADHD to find the motivation to do it⁠[7].\n

Over time, difficulties with self-regulation and motivation can become a vicious cycle. The person will find themselves caught in a pattern of avoiding mentally challenging tasks, and then feeling frustrated when they complete it at the last minute, but not to the best of their abilities.

\nUltimately, this can lead to reduced self-esteem, which creates a cycle in which procrastination continues. Because of low self-esteem, a person who lives with ADHD may believe they cannot be successful, so they will continue to procrastinate⁠[8].\n

Strategies for Enhancing Brain Stimulation

\nFortunately, there are ways to stimulate the brain and overcome ADHD dopamine deficiency. Based on research, the strategies below can be helpful:\n

    \n
  • Physical Activity: Exercise is a stimulating activity, and regular exercise can bring significant benefits to those with ADHD. A recent research report evaluating multiple previous studies found that exercise interventions were effective for managing clinical symptoms of ADHD. Not only can exercise improve attention problems, but it’s also beneficial for reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity⁠[9].
    • \n
  • Cognitive training: Repeated practice with a program or activity can modestly improve the specific skills being trained, such as memory or attention. However, these gains do not usually translate into improvement in core ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity⁠[10].
    • \n
  • Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness interventions like yoga, meditation, and body scanning have significant benefits for ADHD symptoms. The body of research on mindfulness for ADHD has found that this intervention improves attention as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Because mindfulness interventions focus on developing self-awareness and attending to the present, they can be useful for regulating ADHD symptoms⁠[11].
    • \n

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Treatment That Incorporates Dopamine Regulation

\nIn addition to the ADHD brain stimulation strategies above, many people with ADHD benefit from professional treatment. The treatment strategies below can target the dopamine deficiencies seen in ADHD:\n

    \n
  • Medication: Medication is typically the first line of treatment for ADHD symptoms, likely because it’s the best method for targeting dopamine deficits. Stimulant medications are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD symptoms. Medications in this category include methylphenidate, as well as amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse. These medications block dopamine's reuptake, making more of it available in the brain. While stimulants are very effective for many people with ADHD, some people do not respond to these medications. Others find adverse effects like weight loss and insomnia to be intolerable. In these cases, non-stimulants like guanfacine can be beneficial⁠[12].
    • \n
  • Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), may offer additional benefits to those with ADHD. In CBT sessions, people can learn to reframe negative or distorted thinking patterns and develop skills for overcoming impulsivity and better emotional regulation⁠[13].
    • \n
  • Lifestyle Changes: Finally, a professional can help you create lifestyle changes to improve brain health and manage ADHD symptoms. Healthy lifestyle habits, like having a consistent sleep schedule and getting regular exercise, can be essential for reducing ADHD symptoms. It’s also important to follow a nutritious diet, emphasizing whole foods, to promote brain health⁠[14][15].
    • \n

\nIf you’re struggling with ADHD symptoms, it’s important to seek professional treatment. A mental health clinician, such as a psychologist or clinical social worker, can collaborate with you to develop an individualized treatment plan customized to meet your unique needs.

Subject matter expert

\"\"

Holly Schiff Psy.D.

Child, adolescent, and young adult psychology

References

  1. Mehta, T. R., Monegro, A., Nene, Y., Fayyaz, M., & Bollu, P. C. (2019). Neurobiology of ADHD: A review. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 6, 235–240. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026.
  2. Westwood, S. J., Radua, J., & Rubia, K. (2020). Noninvasive brain stimulation in children and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 46(1), E14–E33. PubMed.
  3. Bhatia, A., Lenchner, J. R., & Saadabadi, A. (2023). Biochemistry, dopamine receptors. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine.
  4. Antrop, I., Roeyers, H., Van Oost, P., & Buysse, A. (2000). Stimulation seeking and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 41(2), 225–231. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  5. Kollins, S. H., & Adcock, R. A. (2014). ADHD, altered dopamine neurotransmission, and disrupted reinforcement processes: Implications for smoking and nicotine dependence. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 52, 70–78. PubMed Central.
  6. Stark, R., Bauer, E., Merz, C. J., Zimmermann, M., Reuter, M., Plichta, M. M., Kirsch, P., Lesch, K. P., Fallgatter, A. J., Vaitl, D., & Herrmann, M. J. (2011). ADHD-related behaviors are associated with brain activation in the reward system. Neuropsychologia, 49(3), 426–434. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  7. Volkow, N. D., Wang, G.-J., Newcorn, J. H., Kollins, S. H., Wigal, T. L., Telang, F., Fowler, J. S., Goldstein, R. Z., Klein, N., Logan, J., Wong, C., & Swanson, J. M. (2011). Motivation deficit in ADHD is associated with dysfunction of the dopamine reward pathway. Molecular Psychiatry, 16(11), 1147–1154. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  8. Bodalski, E. A., Flory, K., Canu, W. H., Willcutt, E. G., & Hartung, C. M. (2023). ADHD symptoms and procrastination in college students: The roles of emotion dysregulation and self-esteem. Journal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment, 45, 48–57. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026.
  9. Xie, Y., Gao, X., Song, Y., Zhu, X., Chen, M., Yang, L., & Ren, Y. (2021). Effectiveness of physical activity intervention on ADHD symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis updated. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 706625. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  10. National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: What You Need to Know. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026.
  11. Xue, J., Zhang, Y., & Huang, Y. (2019). A meta-analytic investigation of the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on ADHD symptoms. Medicine, 98(23), e15957. PubMed.
  12. Groom, M. J., & Cortese, S. (2022). Current pharmacological treatments for ADHD. In M. J. Groom & S. Cortese (Eds.), New discoveries in the behavioral neuroscience of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (pp. 19–50). Springer. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026.
  13. Caye, A., Swanson, J. M., Coghill, D., & Rohde, L. A. (2019). Treatment strategies for ADHD: An evidence-based guide to select optimal treatment. Molecular Psychiatry, 24, 390–408. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  14. Nikles, J., Mitchell, G. K., de Miranda Araújo, R., Harris, T., Heussler, H. S., Punja, S., … Senior, H. E. J. (2020). A systematic review of the effectiveness of sleep hygiene in children with ADHD. Psychology, Health & Medicine, 25(4), 497–518. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026.
  15. Fotoglou, A., Morati, I., Diamantis, A., Stergios, V., Gavriilidou, Z., & Drigas, A. (2022). Nutritious diet, physical activity and mobiles. The game changers of ADHD. Technium BioChemMed, 3(2), 87-106. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026.

Medical Content

The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy.

About MentalHealth.com

MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life.

\"\"

Author

Allan Schwartz, Ph.D.

LCSW, Ph.D.

Allan Schwartz, LCSW, Ph.D. is a medical writer with more than 30 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He writes on a wide range of mental health topics, including mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, abuse, stress, and relationship challenges.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Co-author

Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.

Ph.D., LSW, MSW

Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. is a licensed social worker, behavioral health consultant and medical reviewer. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology.

Published
Updated
\"\"

Medical Reviewer

Morgan Blair, M.A.

MA, LPCC

Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University.

Reviewed
\"\"

Related community

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Share perspectives on attention, daily routines, and life with ADHD.

","text":"Home Library Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Brain Stimulation Therapy for ADHD Brain Stimulation Therapy for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Medically reviewed by Morgan Blair – Written by Allan Schwartz, Ph.D. and Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. Published on May 17, 2025 · Updated on May 13, 2026 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) occurs, at least in part, because of abnormalities in the functioning of certain brain processes. For instance, individuals with ADHD have alterations in the functioning of a chemical messenger called dopamine within the brain. Because brain abnormalities are implicated in ADHD, brain stimulation techniques may be beneficial for treating it. Key takeaways Dopamine-related differences in ADHD can affect attention, motivation, reward processing, and impulse control. Difficulties with self-regulation can contribute to procrastination and cycles of reduced self-esteem. Exercise, behavioral therapy, medication, and supportive lifestyle habits can form part of individualized ADHD care. The Role of Dopamine in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) ADHD and dopamine go hand-in-hand, and it’s important to understand this before learning about ADHD stimulation techniques for the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, within the brain. It’s involved in the brain’s reward system, and certain dopamine receptors are specifically involved in attention and impulse control⁠ [3]. In individuals with ADHD, dopamine dysfunction occurs in several brain regions, resulting in cognitive impairments. Problems with dopamine function in the brain can cause cognitive deficits and reduce motivation to complete mentally challenging tasks. People with ADHD have lower levels of dopamine in their brains, resulting in characteristic ADHD symptoms, such as issues with focusing and learning difficulties⁠[1]. ADHD dopamine deficiency can be the result of genetic abnormalities. Research has indicated that alterations in gene codes that determine the density of dopamine transporters can lead to ADHD. Certain medications developed to treat ADHD, like methylphenidate, work by increasing dopamine levels⁠[1]. The Role of Brain Stimulation in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) People with ADHD often engage in dopamine-seeking behavior, meaning they act in a way that increases stimulation in the brain. This process aligns with optimal stimulation theory, which says that people want to maintain an ideal level of arousal. In those with ADHD, hyperactive behaviors can help with achieving the right level of arousal. Researchers have found that children with ADHD are more active when they’re in environments that provide low levels of stimulation. This supports the argument that hyperactivity is a stimulation-seeking behavior⁠[4]. The Reward System in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Brains In people with ADHD, the brain’s reward system typically works differently compared to those without the psychiatric disorder. For instance, the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine both play a role in motivation and reward processing. With impairments in these systems, people with ADHD are less sensitive to delayed rewards. This means they prefer instant gratification over working toward a reward they’ll receive in the future, such as receiving incentives through achieving targets at work or school⁠ [5]. This preference for immediate rewards is linked to impulsive behaviors and challenges in long-term planning. This occurs because the reduced response to delayed rewards makes it very difficult for a person with ADHD to prioritize future goals over the pleasure that comes from fulfilling present desires. Consequently, those with ADHD have difficulty with tasks that require sustained effort, which interferes with effective planning and working toward long-term goals⁠[6]. Self-Regulation Challenges in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Because of dopamine deficiencies, people with ADHD often struggle with self-regulation. This deficiency impairs their ability to sustain attention, delay gratification, and manage impulses, leading to difficulties in everyday tasks. For instance, dopamine deficiencies can lead to problems with procrastination, particularly if the task at hand is not especially enjoyable or stimulating for the person with ADHD. If a task isn’t interesting, it can be difficult for someone with ADHD to find the motivation to do it⁠[7]. Over time, difficulties with self-regulation and motivation can become a vicious cycle. The person will find themselves caught in a pattern of avoiding mentally challenging tasks, and then feeling frustrated when they complete it at the last minute, but not to the best of their abilities. Ultimately, this can lead to reduced self-esteem, which creates a cycle in which procrastination continues. Because of low self-esteem, a person who lives with ADHD may believe they cannot be successful, so they will continue to procrastinate⁠[8]. Strategies for Enhancing Brain Stimulation Fortunately, there are ways to stimulate the brain and overcome ADHD dopamine deficiency. Based on research, the strategies below can be helpful: Physical Activity: Exercise is a stimulating activity, and regular exercise can bring significant benefits to those with ADHD. A recent research report evaluating multiple previous studies found that exercise interventions were effective for managing clinical symptoms of ADHD. Not only can exercise improve attention problems, but it’s also beneficial for reducing hyperactivity and impulsivity⁠[9]. Cognitive training: Repeated practice with a program or activity can modestly improve the specific skills being trained, such as memory or attention. However, these gains do not usually translate into improvement in core ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity⁠[10]. Mindfulness Practices: Mindfulness interventions like yoga, meditation, and body scanning have significant benefits for ADHD symptoms. The body of research on mindfulness for ADHD has found that this intervention improves attention as well as hyperactivity and impulsivity. Because mindfulness interventions focus on developing self-awareness and attending to the present, they can be useful for regulating ADHD symptoms⁠[11]. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Treatment That Incorporates Dopamine Regulation In addition to the ADHD brain stimulation strategies above, many people with ADHD benefit from professional treatment. The treatment strategies below can target the dopamine deficiencies seen in ADHD: Medication: Medication is typically the first line of treatment for ADHD symptoms, likely because it’s the best method for targeting dopamine deficits. Stimulant medications are the most common type of medication used to treat ADHD symptoms. Medications in this category include methylphenidate, as well as amphetamines like Adderall and Vyvanse. These medications block dopamine's reuptake, making more of it available in the brain. While stimulants are very effective for many people with ADHD, some people do not respond to these medications. Others find adverse effects like weight loss and insomnia to be intolerable. In these cases, non-stimulants like guanfacine can be beneficial⁠[12]. Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), may offer additional benefits to those with ADHD. In CBT sessions, people can learn to reframe negative or distorted thinking patterns and develop skills for overcoming impulsivity and better emotional regulation⁠[13]. Lifestyle Changes: Finally, a professional can help you create lifestyle changes to improve brain health and manage ADHD symptoms. Healthy lifestyle habits, like having a consistent sleep schedule and getting regular exercise, can be essential for reducing ADHD symptoms. It’s also important to follow a nutritious diet, emphasizing whole foods, to promote brain health⁠[14][15]. If you’re struggling with ADHD symptoms, it’s important to seek professional treatment. A mental health clinician, such as a psychologist or clinical social worker, can collaborate with you to develop an individualized treatment plan customized to meet your unique needs. Subject matter expert Holly Schiff Psy.D. Child, adolescent, and young adult psychology References Mehta, T. R., Monegro, A., Nene, Y., Fayyaz, M., & Bollu, P. C. (2019). Neurobiology of ADHD: A review. Current Developmental Disorders Reports, 6, 235–240. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026. Westwood, S. J., Radua, J., & Rubia, K. (2020). Noninvasive brain stimulation in children and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 46(1), E14–E33. PubMed. Bhatia, A., Lenchner, J. R., & Saadabadi, A. (2023). Biochemistry, dopamine receptors. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. National Library of Medicine. Antrop, I., Roeyers, H., Van Oost, P., & Buysse, A. (2000). Stimulation seeking and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 41(2), 225–231. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. Kollins, S. H., & Adcock, R. A. (2014). ADHD, altered dopamine neurotransmission, and disrupted reinforcement processes: Implications for smoking and nicotine dependence. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 52, 70–78. PubMed Central. Stark, R., Bauer, E., Merz, C. J., Zimmermann, M., Reuter, M., Plichta, M. M., Kirsch, P., Lesch, K. P., Fallgatter, A. J., Vaitl, D., & Herrmann, M. J. (2011). ADHD-related behaviors are associated with brain activation in the reward system. Neuropsychologia, 49(3), 426–434. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. Volkow, N. D., Wang, G.-J., Newcorn, J. H., Kollins, S. H., Wigal, T. L., Telang, F., Fowler, J. S., Goldstein, R. Z., Klein, N., Logan, J., Wong, C., & Swanson, J. M. (2011). Motivation deficit in ADHD is associated with dysfunction of the dopamine reward pathway. Molecular Psychiatry, 16(11), 1147–1154. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. Bodalski, E. A., Flory, K., Canu, W. H., Willcutt, E. G., & Hartung, C. M. (2023). ADHD symptoms and procrastination in college students: The roles of emotion dysregulation and self-esteem. Journal of Psychopathology and Behavioral Assessment, 45, 48–57. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026. Xie, Y., Gao, X., Song, Y., Zhu, X., Chen, M., Yang, L., & Ren, Y. (2021). Effectiveness of physical activity intervention on ADHD symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis updated. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 12, 706625. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. National Institute of Mental Health. (2024). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: What You Need to Know. National Institutes of Health. National Institute of Mental Health. Accessed October 10 2026. Xue, J., Zhang, Y., & Huang, Y. (2019). A meta-analytic investigation of the impact of mindfulness-based interventions on ADHD symptoms. Medicine, 98(23), e15957. PubMed. Groom, M. J., & Cortese, S. (2022). Current pharmacological treatments for ADHD. In M. J. Groom & S. Cortese (Eds.), New discoveries in the behavioral neuroscience of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (pp. 19–50). Springer. Springer. Accessed October 10 2026. Caye, A., Swanson, J. M., Coghill, D., & Rohde, L. A. (2019). Treatment strategies for ADHD: An evidence-based guide to select optimal treatment. Molecular Psychiatry, 24, 390–408. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. Nikles, J., Mitchell, G. K., de Miranda Araújo, R., Harris, T., Heussler, H. S., Punja, S., … Senior, H. E. J. (2020). A systematic review of the effectiveness of sleep hygiene in children with ADHD. Psychology, Health & Medicine, 25(4), 497–518. PubMed. Accessed October 10 2026. Fotoglou, A., Morati, I., Diamantis, A., Stergios, V., Gavriilidou, Z., & Drigas, A. (2022). Nutritious diet, physical activity and mobiles. The game changers of ADHD. Technium BioChemMed, 3(2), 87-106. ResearchGate. Accessed October 10 2026. Medical Content The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience. They actively contribute to the development of content, products, and services, and meticulously review all medical material before publication to ensure accuracy and alignment with current research and conversations in mental health. For more information, please visit the Editorial Policy. About MentalHealth.com MentalHealth.com helps people understand themselves, build healthier relationships, and access the right care. We bring together mental health education, diagnostics, and care management to support well-being throughout every phase of life. Author Allan Schwartz, Ph.D. LCSW, Ph.D. Allan Schwartz, LCSW, Ph.D. is a medical writer with more than 30 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He writes on a wide range of mental health topics, including mood and anxiety disorders, eating disorders, trauma, abuse, stress, and relationship challenges. Published May 17, 2025 Updated May 13, 2026 Co-author Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. Ph.D., LSW, MSW Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D. is a licensed social worker, behavioral health consultant and medical reviewer. She holds a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Published May 17, 2025 Updated May 13, 2026 Medical Reviewer Morgan Blair, M.A. MA, LPCC Morgan Blair is a licensed therapist, writer and medical reviewer, holding a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Northwestern University. Reviewed February 14, 2025 Related community Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Share perspectives on attention, daily routines, and life with ADHD. Table of contentsChoose a section The Role of Dopamine in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) The Role of Brain Stimulation in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) The Reward System in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Brains Self-Regulation Challenges in Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Strategies for Enhancing Brain Stimulation Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Treatment That Incorporates Dopamine Regulation View more","wordCount":1993},"schema":{"@context":"https://schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization","name":"MentalHealth.com","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","publishingPrinciples":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing/editorial-policy"},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#website","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/","name":"MentalHealth.com","inLanguage":"en-US","publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"}},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Library","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"name":"Brain Stimulation Therapy for ADHD","item":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation"}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation#primaryimage","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/faf0f11040402c16b3ffbd50.webp","contentUrl":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/faf0f11040402c16b3ffbd50.webp","width":1200,"height":630,"encodingFormat":"image/webp","caption":"A woman wearing glasses works on a laptop in a bright room."},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/allan-schwartz#person","name":"Allan Schwartz, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/allan-schwartz","jobTitle":"LCSW, Ph.D.","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/3f1145a76c69b3ca318ecb8b.jpg","memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jenni-jacobsen#person","name":"Jenni Jacobsen, Ph.D.","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/jenni-jacobsen","jobTitle":"Ph.D., LSW, MSW","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/4f4e4293be2246dfe2e00d7c.jpg","memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"},{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/publishing#department"}]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair#person","name":"Morgan Blair","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/people/morgan-blair","jobTitle":"MA, LPCC","image":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/assets/optimized/9f1be5c5cc2b412cfab5f6cc.jpg","sameAs":["https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-blair-5627aa88/"],"memberOf":[{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/clinical-affairs#department"}]},{"@type":"Article","@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation#article","url":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation","headline":"Brain Stimulation Therapy for Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)","description":"Learn how dopamine dysfunction in ADHD affects attention and impulse control, with treatments like medication and brain stimulation.","wordCount":1120,"mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/adhd-and-brain-stimulation#webpage"},"publisher":{"@id":"https://www.mentalhealth.com/#organization"},"articleSection":"Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder","citation":[{"@type":"CreativeWork","name":"Mehta, T. 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ADHD occurs, at least in part, because of abnormalities in the functioning of certain brain processes. For instance, individuals with ADHD have alterations in the functioning of a chemical messenger called dopamine within the brain. Because brain abnormalities are implicated in ADHD, brain stimulation techniques may be beneficial for treating it.

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