(Central) Auditory Processing Disorder Assessment
Why should students be tested for (C)APD?
Auditory processing is an essential skill for learning and communication and as such should be the first consideration when learning, behaviour and/or social problems are evident. Although awareness and understanding of (C)APD has come a long way over the last decade, many individuals are still not being identified or are being mislabelled. There are various ways to help individuals with (C)APD. With early identification and appropriate intervention (C)APD sufferers can maximise their learning potential.
Central Auditory Processing abilities are measurable, using standardised and normed assessments in conjunction with highly sophisticated technology and do not rely on a subjective checklist. Following an auditory processing assessment, specialists are able to provide strategies to improve the student’s specific learning needs and skills.
What does the (Central) Auditory Processing Assessment involve?
An auditory processing assessment at Sonic Learning involves a comprehensive case history, hearing screening, assessment of auditory processing in various simulated listening environments, a test of temporal processing and an auditory memory assessment. While the assessment requires specialised technology, it isn’t invasive, with students being required to sit in a sound proof booth for a short period of time to listen and respond to instructions and information.
A referral is not required for an auditory processing assessment and waitlists are generally short at our specialty clinic. The comprehensive auditory processing assessment for children 6 years through to adults is conducted by a specialist and takes approximately 1½ hours to administer. A (C)APD screening can be conducted on children between 5½ and 6 years of age and takes approximately 1 hour to administer. A comprehensive report of the child’s assessment outcomes and suggested interventions is provided to the parent and referring health professional (if applicable) or GP within a short period of time.