Causes and Treatment

Definitions of and Approaches to Auditory Processing and APD

There is NO consensus as to what is defined or described as Auditory Processing and Auditory Processing Disorders (APD).

Most professionals today define APD as a disorder specific to the auditory system:  an Audiocentric Approach.

Thus, their focus is to evaluate the Auditory system only and, thus, only audiologists can evaluate and diagnose APD.



Evaluating Auditory Information Processing

We need a comprehensive assessment to look at all of the factors:
      Cognitive/behavioral testing by a psychologist
      Language Testing by a speech-language pathologist
      Auditory Processing Testing by an Audiologist
      Sensory systems assessment by an OT (occupational therapist)


Developing the Treatment Plan

We need to consider these factors:

• Placement - in school, in the classroom, into a program. 
  Most children with APD problems can be educate appropriately in a regular educational setting.
  Teachers should be patient - also consider teachers with accents and different language backgrounds. 
  FM systems to bring the teachers voice via a microphone to the listener via loudspeakers or amplifers.
• Accommdations
  Maximize positive listening environments; use visual and gestural cues.
  Preferential seating:  may not always be the front of the room.
  Pre-teaching - key words, vocabulary, underlying concepts.
• Treatments for APD
  Tomatis (www.tomatis.com) - requires use of special equipment, so you have to go to the providers office.
  The LIstening Program (www.advancedbrain.com or www.thelisteningprogram.com)
  Samonas (www.samonas.com)
  Therapeutic Listening (www.vitallinks.com)
  Earobics (www.earobics.com) inexpensive, home versions, children through adults
  Fast ForWord (www.fastforword.com) - more cost and time, access to internet
  Lindamood-Bell Programs (www.lindamoodbell.com)