Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)
APD effects the way a person processes sound or speech…
The term auditory processing disorder is used to describe a variety of different auditory challenges. APD negatively impact the brain’s interpretation of sounds and speech. Individuals with APD may not perceive speech sounds correctly even when they are loud enough. This difficulty becomes more noticeable in noisy or challenging listening environments or when listening to complex information.
Individuals with normal hearing thresholds and those with hearing loss can experience APD.
Chronic ear infections as a child, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), seizure disorders, and stroke can increase the risk of APD.
Dr. Angela Alexander, found of Auditory Processing Institute, presenting a TED talk on APD.
Do you have APD?
An auditory processing evaluation must be completed to determine if you have APD and what type(s).
An APD evaluation is similar to the hearing test you have completed in the past but with more speech tests. Some of the testing will require you to listen to and repeat words in quiet, in noise, in sentences overlapping (like in a group setting). Your responses are compared to normative data to determine what specific difficulties you are having with auditory processing. With that information an auditory training plan can be developed.
That is the great thing about APD, we can improve your auditory processing abilities through auditory training therapy!
Auditory Training
Auditory Training is basically physical therapy for your brain. We meet once a week, typically for 12 to 14 weeks. Periodically we re-evaluate to monitor progress.
What type of APD evaluation/training do we provide:
Buffalo Model
Dr. Kayla Bloom-Trosky underwent APD training through the Auditory Processing Institute, taught by Dr. Angela Alexander, whom follows the Buffalo Model, created by Dr. Jack Katz.
We mostly offer in person auditory training sessions, but are able to offer virtual sessions on a case-by-case basis.
What does insurance cover?
Most insurances cover the APD evaluation, you would still be responsible for copays/deductibles. However, insurance does not cover auditory training performed by audiologists. We will provide a quote at your APD evaluation.