<p>Low-intensity focused ultrasound is an emerging technique that can precisely and non-invasively modulate neuronal activity and treat brain disorders. Recent developments in ultrasound brain stimulation technologies have led to improved integration with existing biological monitoring systems and, in turn, a range of exploratory studies, moving low-intensity focused ultrasound closer to clinical practice. Here, we examine the development of ultrasound stimulation technologies for targeted therapeutics. We explore micromachined and piezoelectric ultrasound transducers and their system-level integration with physiological readout techniques. We consider the spatial resolution, beam steering, imaging compatibility, skull compensation technologies and closed-loop algorithms of ultrasound stimulation platforms. We also provide a guide for developing an ultrasound stimulation system for specific therapeutic applications. Finally, we explore the technical challenges that remain to be addressed to develop ultrasound transducer technologies and platforms for widespread preclinical and clinical studies.</p>