Rehabilitation Program for Children with ADHD: A Multimodal Approach
Our support program for children with ADHD combines neuro-auditory stimulation, Giger MD therapy and functional medicine. This winning combination acts on motor skills, attention, impulsivity and neuro-metabolic balance, in order to strengthen the foundations of regulation (concentration, impulse control, coordination, emotional management).
Does your child have trouble concentrating, move constantly, act without thinking? Are you observing their daily efforts and frustration with school difficulties? You are not alone. In Switzerland, 5 to 7% of children are affected by ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).
✓ Good news: over 80% of our young patients see lasting improvement in their symptoms thanks to our multidisciplinary scientific program.
🎯 First free consultation Assess your child's needs without obligation (30 min)
📞 Available Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm
Understanding ADHD: attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects your child's ability to regulate their attention, control their movements and manage their impulsivity:
🎯 Inattention Difficulty maintaining concentration. The child is easily distracted, forgets their belongings, doesn't finish tasks, makes careless mistakes, has difficulty following instructions.
⚡ Hyperactivity Constant need to move. The child can't sit still, fidgets constantly in their chair, runs everywhere excessively, has difficulty playing quietly, talks too much.
🚀 Impulsivity Difficulty controlling reactions. The child acts without thinking, interrupts others, can't wait their turn, answers before questions are finished, has intense emotional reactions.
The links between motor skills, attention and emotional regulation
Neuroscience research demonstrates that ADHD is not simply a lack of willpower. It is a complex neurobiological dysfunction involving:
The prefrontal cortex (executive functions: planning, inhibition, working memory)
The basal ganglia (dopamine and noradrenaline regulation)
The vestibular system (balance, coordination and attention)
The neurometabolic environment (nutrition and brain function)
This is why a comprehensive and integrative approach gives significantly superior results to isolated interventions. ADHD persists in 60 to 70% of cases into adulthood, hence the importance of early intervention.
Our scientific approach based on neuroplasticity
Our program is based on recent advances in neuroscience, particularly the concept of neuroplasticity: the brain's ability to reorganize and create new neural connections throughout life.
💡 Key principle: Contrary to what was once believed, the ADHD brain can learn to function better. When coordinated and repeated stimulations are applied on motor, auditory and metabolic levels, the central nervous system can develop new circuits and strengthen attentional networks, even in children diagnosed with ADHD.
Neural synchronization and attentional regulation
Recent research on ADHD has demonstrated that:
Coordinated rhythmic exercises improve attention regulation and reduce impulsivity by stimulating the basal ganglia and cerebellum
Vestibular system stimulation (inner ear) plays a crucial role in attention capacity - the vestibular system is considered the "seat of attention"
Repetitive cross-pattern movements promote inter-hemispheric synchronization, essential for emotional and behavioral regulation
Neurometabolic optimization (targeted nutrition) improves dopamine and noradrenaline production, neurotransmitters deficient in ADHD
Scientific reference: Recent studies show that physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, increases dopamine concentration and induces BDNF (neurotrophic factor) secretion, promoting neuroplasticity. Rhythmic coordination exercises are particularly effective in improving attention and reducing impulsivity in children with ADHD.
The 3 pillars of our multidisciplinary program
Our approach combines three complementary methods that work synergistically to optimize your child's attentional and behavioral regulation.
1️⃣ Giger MD® Therapy: improving coordination and motor control
What is it?
The Giger MD® is a certified medical device that enables intensive neuromotor rehabilitation through rhythmic and cross-pattern movements of all four limbs (arms, legs, trunk) in a supine position.
How does it work?
The child lies comfortably and performs coordinated pedaling movements with hands and feet. The device guarantees precise coordination to the thousandth of a second between movements, creating rhythmic patterns impossible to reproduce manually.
This sensorimotor stimulation simultaneously activates:
The cerebellum (fine motor coordination, attention regulation)
The basal ganglia (dopamine circuits, impulse control)
The prefrontal cortex (executive functions, planning, inhibition)
The brainstem (arousal regulation and sustained attention)
Why is it effective for ADHD?
Children with ADHD often have associated Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Studies show that:
Coordinated rhythmic movements improve sensorimotor synchronization, deficient in ADHD
Repetition of precise motor patterns strengthens fronto-striatal networks, involved in attention and impulse control
Physical exercise increases dopamine production, a neurotransmitter deficient in ADHD
Benefits appear 15 minutes after activity and persist for about 1 hour
📋 Precise protocol
✓ Session duration: 20 minutes ✓ Frequency: once a week ✓ Complete program: 9 sessions (9 weeks) ✓ Minimum age: 5 years (from 1m20) ✓ Location: Activate Center, Geneva or Lausanne ✓ Reimbursement: Covered by LAMal
Observed results
From the first sessions (4-5 sessions), parents and teachers often notice:
✓ Better concentration capacity in class
✓ Reduction in motor agitation and hyperactivity
✓ Improved impulse control
✓ Better coordination and gestural precision
✓ Improved postural stability (can sit still longer)
✓ Reduced agitation and nervousness
2️⃣ Neuro-auditory stimulation: energizing attention and regulating impulsivity
What is it?
Neuro-auditory stimulation based on the work of Dr. A. Tomatis activates the brain through listening sessions of filtered music (mainly Mozart) and maternal voice, in order to:
Strengthen the vestibular system (inner ear), considered the "seat of attention"
Improve auditory discrimination and ability to filter distractions
Stimulate attentional circuits and emotional regulation
Promote neural synchronization and dopamine production
Regulate the attachment system and oxytocin production
The link between the ear and attention
Dr. Tomatis' research demonstrated that the ear is the organ that provides the most stimulation to the brain. The vestibular system (in the inner ear) controls not only balance and coordination, but also plays a central role in attention and active listening. Children with ADHD often have central auditory processing difficulties, even with normal hearing.
How does it work?
Your child listens to specially treated music via special headphones that transmit sounds by:
Air conduction (classical auditory system stimulation)
Bone conduction (vibrations transmitted directly to the brain via skull bones, intensely stimulating the vestibular system)
Sounds are filtered to create unpredictable sound contrasts that keep the brain alert and develop change detection mechanisms - exactly what is lacking in ADHD.
📋 Precise protocol
✓ Phase 1: Intensive session of 13 days (1h20/day) at the center or at home ✓ Phase 2: Session of 13 days (1h20/day) after 4 weeks break ✓ Phase 3: Session of 13 days (1h20/day) after 8 weeks break ✓ Minimum age: 4 years ✓ Alternative: Home program possible (1h/day with rented headphones, but not reimbursed) ✓ Reimbursement: Via supplementary insurance when done at the center
Observed results on ADHD
Scientific studies and our clinical experience show:
✓ 67% improvement in information processing speed (Sacarin study, 2013)
✓ 53% improvement in phonological processing, surpassing the methylphenidate group
✓ Better sustained attention capacity and concentration in class
✓ Reduced impulsivity (67% improvement in a study on children with ADHD)
✓ Decreased behavioral problems (opposition, aggression, frustration)
✓ Improved emotional regulation and stress management
✓ Better hyperactivity control and agitation
Testimonial: "Our 9-year-old son had been on Ritalin for years. After the Tomatis sessions, we were able to gradually reduce and then stop the medication with the doctor's agreement. He is much calmer, more present, and integrates things better. His teacher doesn't recognize him!" – Parents of a child with ADHD, Geneva
3️⃣ Functional medicine: optimizing the neurometabolic terrain
The link between nutrition and ADHD
Many children with ADHD have neurometabolic imbalances that worsen their symptoms:
Magnesium deficiency (present in 95% of children with ADHD according to some studies)
Iron and zinc deficiencies (involved in neurotransmitter synthesis)
Omega-3 fatty acid imbalance (essential for brain function)
Vitamin D deficiency (modulates serotonin synthesis)
Gut microbiota imbalances (disturbed gut-brain axis)
Glycemic instability and sensitivity to food additives
Our personalized nutritional approach
Based on an individualized assessment, we offer:
🔬 Essential micronutrients:
• Magnesium (6 mg/kg/day): Regulation of stress, hyperexcitability and anxiety. Studies show significant symptom improvement after 8 weeks.
• Omega-3 (EPA/DHA): Improved attention, concentration and behavior. Recommended dose: 1000-2500 mg/day for children depending on age.
• Zinc: Reduction of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Particularly important in children with oppositional disorders.
• Iron: Symptom improvement in children with low ferritin (even non-anemic).
• Vitamin D: Co-supplementation with magnesium shows improvement in behavioral function and mental health.
🦠 Microbiota rebalancing:
• The gut microbiota influences ADHD via the gut-brain axis • Targeted probiotics to restore flora balance • Prebiotics (fibers) to nourish good bacteria • Reduction of low-grade intestinal inflammation
🍽️ Dietary optimization:
• Elimination of food additives (colorings, artificial flavors, preservatives) that worsen hyperactivity • Blood sugar stabilization (protein breakfasts, reduction of fast sugars) • Increase in anti-inflammatory foods (fatty fish, vegetables, fruits) • Identification of individual food sensitivities
Observed results
✓ Reduced agitation and anxiety from the first weeks
✓ Improved sleep quality
✓ Mood stabilization and emotional reactions
✓ Better frustration tolerance
✓ Increased mental energy and concentration
✓ Strengthened immune system (fewer illnesses)
How does the complete program work?
Here is the typical journey for a child starting our integrative ADHD program:
Step 1: Free initial consultation (30 min)
Assessment of your child's ADHD symptoms
Analysis of medical and school history
Discussion of goals and expectations
Detailed presentation of personalized program
Step 2: Complete assessment (if decision to start)
Neuro-auditory listening assessment: Analysis of auditory and attentional capacities (30-45 min)
Sensory and behavioral evaluation: Sensory and psychometric profile
Nutritional assessment: Food questionnaire, possibly blood tests (erythrocyte magnesium, ferritin, vitamin D, etc.)
Step 3: Program launch (4-5 months)
Typical 5-month schedule:
Months 1-2: • Immediate start of nutritional supplementation • 9 Giger MD sessions (1x/week for 9 weeks) • First intensive neuro-auditory stimulation session (13 days, 2h/day)
Month 3: • 4-week integration break • Continued nutritional supplementation • Phone follow-up to adjust dosages if needed
Months 3-4: • Second neuro-auditory stimulation session (13 days, 1h20/day) • Mid-program neuro-auditory assessment
Month 5: • Third neuro-auditory stimulation session (13 days, 1h20/day) • Final neuro-auditory assessment and follow-up recommendations
Step 4: Post-program follow-up
Evaluation assessment 2 months after completion
Nutritional adjustments if necessary
Giger MD or neuro-auditory stimulation booster sessions as needed (optional)
Parent testimonials
"Julien, 9 years old, was hyperactive and moved all the time, with a lot of clumsiness. Now it's as if he's calm with himself. He is much calmer, present, and integrates things. And it changes the life of the whole family, but also of his teacher who told us she doesn't recognize him! It's a real transformation. Only one regret: waiting before starting treatment..." — Julien's parents, Annecy
"We had started conventional care with a psychomotor therapist, psychologist and neuropediatrician. But the symptoms related to my son's ADHD (impulsivity, opposition, agitation) were still present. After integrating the Activate program, we see great progress in all areas: concentration, autonomy, posture, and especially better emotional regulation." — Mother of a 9-year-old boy, Geneva
"Albane had severe ADHD. She couldn't sit still, her gaze didn't stay on the same target for more than 2 seconds, she threw herself on the sofa to self-stimulate. Now, after neuro-auditory stimulation and Giger sessions, she can pedal, does 100-piece puzzles, concentrates, is calmer. It's spectacular." — Albane's parents, neighboring France
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ From what age can we start?
Neuro-auditory stimulation: from 4 years Giger MD: from 5 years (from 1m20) Functional medicine: from diagnosis
The ideal is to start as soon as the ADHD diagnosis is made, as the young brain has maximum plasticity.
❓ How long does the program last?
Total duration: 4 to 6 months on average for a complete program
• Giger MD: 9 weeks (9 sessions) • Neuro-auditory stimulation: 3 intensives (13 + 13 + 13 days) spread over 4 months • Functional medicine: throughout the program and beyond
❓ Does this replace methylphenidate (Ritalin)?
Our program does not automatically replace medication.
However, many doctors have been able to gradually reduce and then stop medication in their patients who have followed our program, depending on the results obtained.
Important: Any modification of medication must be done in agreement with the prescribing physician. Our program can be followed alongside medication without contraindication.
❓ Does my child have to stop other therapies?
No, absolutely not. Our approach is complementary to psychological follow-up, psychomotor therapy, or any other support your child is already receiving.
We work on neurological and metabolic foundations (coordination, auditory processing, neurochemical regulation), while other therapies target specific aspects. The different approaches reinforce each other.
❓ Are there reimbursements?
Yes: • Giger MD: reimbursed by LAMal (mandatory basic insurance) • Neuro-auditory stimulation (audio-psycho-phonology): possible reimbursement via supplementary insurance when done at the center (according to your contract) • Nutritional supplements: generally not reimbursed
We advise you to check your coverage before starting the program.
❓ Can my child do the program at home?
Partially: • Neuro-auditory stimulation: ✅ At home possible (1h/day with rented headphones, but no insurance reimbursement) • Functional medicine: ✅ At home (taking supplements) • Giger MD: ❌ Requires coming to the center (1x/week)
The Giger MD device being a specialized medical device, sessions must be done at the Activate Center. Audio-psycho-phonology is covered by supplementary insurance when follow-up is done on site.
❓ What results can we expect?
Results vary for each child, but our experience shows that: • About 80% of children see lasting improvement • First results often appear from 4-5 Giger MD sessions and after the first intensive audio-psycho-phonology session • Improvements concern: attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, emotional regulation, coordination, self-confidence • Benefits are lasting over time (several years)
Important: each child progresses at their own pace. Some experience spectacular improvements, others more gradual but equally significant progress.
❓ My child has severe ADHD, is the program suitable?
Yes, absolutely. Our approach is adapted to different levels of ADHD severity. The more severe the symptoms, the more important early and comprehensive intervention is.
We regularly work with children with severe ADHD, sometimes associated with oppositional or anxiety disorders, with very good results. The only case where we cannot intervene is if the child or adolescent has conduct disorder that is not regulated.
❓ What if my child cannot come every week for Giger MD?
We understand family constraints. Regularity is important to optimize results, but we can adapt the schedule if necessary (e.g., 2 sessions in certain weeks to compensate).
Contact us to discuss your specific situation and find the best solution.
Comparison table: our program vs other approaches
| Approach | Target | Duration | Reimbursement | |
| Methylphenidate alone | Chemical symptoms | Continuous (years) | ✅ Yes (LAMal) | |
| Psychomotor therapy | Coordination, regulation | 1-2 years+ | ⚠️ Partial | |
| Psychotherapy | Emotions, behavior | Variable | ✅ Yes (LAMal) | |
| ⭐ Our Activate program | Neuromotor + Auditory + Metabolic | 4-5 months | ✅ Yes (LAMal + Suppl.) | |
✓ Advantage of our approach: By acting simultaneously on motor, auditory and metabolic levels, we create a therapeutic synergy that optimizes the chances of improvement and reduces the time needed to obtain significant and lasting results.
Practical information
📍 Activate Center
Address in Geneva: rue de la Pélisserie 18, 1st floor, 1204 Geneva
Address in Lausanne: avenue Alexandre Vinet 25, 2nd floor, 1004 Lausanne
Hours: Monday to Friday, by appointment only
Contact: Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm
Coverage area: Geneva, neighboring France, Lausanne and surroundings.
Ready to help your child regain calm and concentration?
Over 80% of our young patients regain better quality of life. What if it was your child's turn?
✓ Without obligation ✓ 30 minutes of discussion with a qualified therapist ✓ Personalized assessment of your child's needs
Or call us directly Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 6:30 pm at +41 22 577 55 50
Scientific references:
Schalow G. "Scientific basis of the GIGER MD medical device", Combo Ltd., 2021
"Psychomotor therapy and ADHD: evaluation of a rehabilitation program based on rhythmic situations", Elsevier, 2019
Sacarin L. "Effects of Tomatis Method on children with ADHD", Antioch University Seattle, 2013
"Physical activity attenuates ADHD symptoms", Le Devoir, 2024
"ADHD in children: treatment through micronutrition", Vitanutrics, 2024
Montgomery P. et al. "Efficacy of omega-3 in ADHD treatment", Pediatrics
Mousain-Bosc M. et al. "Magnesium and vitamin B6 in ADHD treatment", Magnesium Research, 1997
Patrick RP, Ames BN. "Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids control serotonin synthesis", FASEB J., 2015