Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) Treatment

After an Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) diagnosis is confirmed, we develop an individualised, deficit-targeted treatment plan based on each client’s test results and listening goals.

Treatment focuses on strengthening the listening skills that need improvement. For example:

• Speech-in-noise difficulties → training speech-in-noise perception and binaural listening
• Difficulty following verbal instructions → improving auditory attention, sequencing, and working memory
• Reading or spelling challenges → strengthening phonological awareness and phonemic discrimination

All treatment plans are:

• Individualised for children and adults
• Built around clear listening goals
• Delivered in structured training blocks
• Reviewed regularly with progress monitoring

Personalised Online Auditory Training

Auditory training sessions are delivered online via Zoom by an audiologist, allowing clients across Sydney and Australia to access specialised APD therapy.

Each session:

• Runs for 50–65 minutes
• Includes a 5–10 minute break if needed
• Is tailored to the client’s listening profile and goals

Training activities may include:

• Listening in noise – understanding speech with background sounds
• Dichotic listening – training both ears to work together
• Auditory memory – remembering what was heard
• Phonological awareness – recognising sound patterns in words
• Phonemic discrimination – telling similar speech sounds apart

Sessions are designed to be interactive and engaging, helping new listening skills develop gradually.

A typical therapy round includes:

• 14 sessions over approximately three months

At-Home Auditory Training

Clients may also receive access to a game-based auditory training program that runs on a tablet or computer.

This program helps strengthen:

• Auditory memory
• Listening attention
• Speech-in-noise understanding

Recommended practice:

• 15–20 minutes
• Twice per week

The audiologist monitors progress online and adjusts the program as needed.

A typical training block may take 2–6 months, depending on progress.

For some clients, a more intensive training schedule may be recommended:

• Up to 30 minutes per day
• Five days per week

Training intensity is always adjusted based on progress, tolerance, and real-world listening outcomes.

Classroom and Communication Support

When appropriate, we provide recommendations to support listening in everyday environments, including:

• Classroom seating recommendations
• Instruction and communication strategies
• Noise management strategies
• Support for parents, teachers, and workplaces

Remote Microphone (FM) Technology

In some cases, remote microphone (FM) systems may be recommended.

These devices:

• Transmit the speaker’s voice directly to the listener
• Improve the signal-to-noise ratio
• Make speech clearer in noisy environments

They are often used in:

• Classrooms
• Meetings
• Workplaces

Low-Gain Hearing Aids

Some adults with APD have normal or near-normal hearing but still struggle to understand speech in background noise.

In these cases, low-gain hearing aids may help by:

• Improving speech clarity in noise
• Using directional microphones
• Providing noise management support

Fittings are typically conservative (often open-fit/RIC) and focus on improving listening comfort in challenging environments.

• Better understanding of teachers, colleagues, and peers
• Easier to follow lessons and multi-step instructions in classroom settings
• Reduced listening effort and end-of-day fatigue
• Stronger foundations for reading, spelling, and memory
• Noticeable progress after one round of treatment—most clients experience quantitative improvements in follow-up testing and qualitative gains in post-treatment questionnaires
• Post-treatment results typically show at least one standard deviation of improvement in most APD test areas, meaning measurable and noticeable listening gains.