The Science Behind What We Do | Hopeful Neuron

Honest about the evidence

The science behind what we do. What the research shows.

The tools we use, with an honest summary of the evidence for each.

The short version
  • We use eight tools alongside the Melillo Method, matched to what we see in each child. We only share tools we’ve used ourselves and can stand behind.
  • Each tool includes a short summary of the research so far, with links to the papers, so you can read them yourself.
  • None of these tools is an established treatment for ADHD or autism. They sit alongside parent training, school support and, for some children, medication.
  • We can’t promise results. If you’re worried about your child, start with your GP.

The tools, and what the research shows

We match these to what we see in each child. They sit alongside medication, therapy and school support, not instead of them.

Neurofeedback EEG device for brainwave training
Supporting tool

Neurofeedback

Sensors read brainwave activity in real time, and the child gets feedback through sound or visuals, with the aim of the brain learning more stable patterns. We use it with children who seem “on all the time” or struggle to stay with a task. It’s drug free and non invasive.

Some families tell us they notice fewer chaotic days and quicker recovery after stress.

What the research says so far

Neurofeedback has been studied for many years, especially for ADHD, and a number of studies report improvements in attention and self regulation. It is non invasive and drug free, and research in autism is growing. You can read more on our page about neurofeedback for children.

Postural insoles designed by Bernard Bricot
Supporting tool

Postural insoles

Postural insoles are designed to send signals from the feet to the brain’s balance and coordination pathways, helping the body find better alignment and steadier balance without constant reminders to “sit up straight”. We use them alongside reflex work, so your child has a stronger, steadier base while their primitive reflexes are integrating.

Families often tell us their child stands taller, moves with more confidence, and seems to progress through their reflex work more smoothly.

What the research says so far

Posturology looks at how signals from the feet and eyes help the brain control posture and balance. Research on postural insoles in children is still growing. See our Posture Wellness page for how we use them.

NeuroSolution cold laser device
Supporting tool

Low level (cold) laser

A light based tool thought to support cellular energy. Sessions are short and painless. We keep intensity conservative for children and use it as part of a wider plan, never on its own.

Some families tell us they notice less physical tension and calmer evenings.

What the research says so far

Research on low level laser in children with neurodevelopmental differences is at an early stage, mostly small studies. It isn't an established treatment for ADHD or autism. Please tell us about epilepsy, seizures, photosensitivity or any medication before your child has any light based therapy.

Red LED light therapy panel
Supporting tool

Red light support

Red light (photobiomodulation) is thought to support energy production in cells, including in the brain. We use it at child appropriate settings, always as part of the wider programme.

Some parents tell us their child gets through the afternoon without the usual heavy dip.

What the research says so far

The studies linked below are small or preliminary, and larger, well controlled trials are still needed. Red light isn't an established treatment for ADHD or autism, and we can't promise results.

NeuroSage software for visual and vestibular stimulation
Supporting tool

NeuroSage: visual and vestibular work

NeuroSage works visual and vestibular (balance) pathways together with light and sound input. In the model we work with, an underpowered vestibular system can make attention, balance and emotional steadiness harder.

Some families tell us they notice smoother transitions and better body control.

What the research says so far

Some small trials of vestibular stimulation in children with ADHD and autism report benefits for balance, motor planning and attention. The studies are small and vary in quality, and we can't promise results.

Rezzimax handheld vibration device
Supporting tool

Rezzimax

A handheld device that uses variable vibration on vagal and related pathways. Families use it in tough moments, such as before homework, before bed or after school.

Some parents tell us their child shifts towards a calmer state fairly quickly.

What the research says so far

Research on this specific device is very limited, and it may not be independent of the manufacturer. Please tell us about any medical conditions, heart conditions or implanted medical devices before your child uses it.

BrainTap headset using light and sound
Supporting tool

BrainTap

BrainTap uses audio and light patterns to help the brain shift state. We use it as a relaxation and sleep support tool with children who struggle to wind down.

Some families tell us they notice small wins with sleep that then spread into the day.

What the research says so far

The only research we can point to is the manufacturer's own summary, which isn't independent, peer reviewed research. We think of BrainTap as a relaxation and sleep support tool, not a treatment for any condition. Please tell us about epilepsy, seizures or photosensitivity first.

Questions about the evidence

If yours isn't here, ask us directly. No jargon, no pressure, and no pretending things are simpler than they are.

These answers describe common patterns, not a diagnosis. We're not doctors, and only a qualified professional can formally diagnose ADHD, autism, dyslexia or dyspraxia. If any of this sounds familiar, it's worth raising with your GP or paediatrician alongside talking to us.
It depends on the tool, and it's fairly limited overall. The approaches with the strongest evidence for ADHD and autism are things like parent training, communication and behavioural support, school adjustments and, for some children, medication. The tools on this page have less evidence behind them, and it ranges from mixed to very limited. That's why each one has an evidence label and a short summary of what the research does and doesn't show. We can't promise results, and we'd rather you knew that before you start.
We keep settings conservative, introduce each tool gently and explain it to you first, and you can stop or skip anything at any point. They aren't suitable for every child. Please tell us in advance about epilepsy or a history of seizures, photosensitivity, any medical conditions, medication, and any implanted medical devices, so we can plan around them. If you have concerns, check with your child's doctor first.
Yes. Many families we support are also using medication, and our programme is designed to run alongside it. We don't advise on medication, and that decision always stays with your prescriber. Please don't stop or change medication without talking to them first.
We work alongside them, and we usually encourage families to continue. Those therapies target specific skills and behaviours. We look at the nervous system underneath, including reflexes, coordination and regulation, which we think can make those skills harder to access. That is our view, and it isn't established. You can keep any therapy your child already has.

This page is general information for parents. It is not medical advice, and it does not replace advice from your GP, health visitor, paediatrician or other health professional.

A note from Adi and Dana

Most parents who find us have already done a lot: appointments, reports, strategies, school meetings, and still the feeling that something is being missed. What we look at isn’t usually part of standard NHS routes. We think it deserves a look, and we’ve tried to be open here about how much evidence there is, and how much there isn’t.

If you’d like to talk through what you’re seeing, we’ll give you an honest view, including when the answer is something other than us.

Book a free 15 minute call →
Certifications & Affiliations
Dr. Robert Melillo, Melillo Method CIES, Collège International d'Etude de la Statique IAFNR, Interdisciplinary Association of Functional Neurosciences and Rehabilitation