Philosophy
APD, also called central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), is diagnosed by Liz Zeitlin, M.A., an audiologist with specialized training in evaluating central auditory function. Goals for each individual are accomplished by diagnosis coupled with a treatment/therapy regimen targeted to remediate the identified auditory processing deficits. A battery of normed tests is essential to assess the six areas of potential processing deficits, yielding a profile that outlines auditory strengths and weaknesses. Identifying specific deficit areas is the backbone for my recommendations, accommodations, and remediation.
Making Connections
Because gathering information about a child’s abilities across a wide variety of functional domains is vital, a team approach is used to assess auditory processing abilities. The collection and assessment of medical history, developmental milestones, and observations from both home and the classroom setting allow me to ascertain cognitive skills, receptive and expressive speech and language abilities, and listening and learning behavior. Information from a child’s speech/language pathologist and psychologist is integral to the APD evaluation.
Treating Auditory Processing Disorders
Northwest Auditory Processing Clinic designs individualized treatment plans to address the specific areas of deficit identified in the APD evaluation. The successful management in the educational setting focuses on remediating the disorder, changing the environment, and improving the client’s listening and learning skills. Input to IEP goals and objectives, classroom accommodations, including strategies for the teacher, use of assistive devices and FM systems, are offered.