With our initial investigation into listening therapy we came across Berard auditory integration training (BAIT), the Tomatis method, Johansen Sound Therapy and Samonas sound therapy. As with everything else the W’s started…. you know…” Who provides it? , What does it involve? , where do we have to go for it? and When would you see results”. If you clicked this link you’re wondering too. Let me try to answer some of these questions.
What: it is electronically modified music & sound used to re-educate the listening system, by stimulating and improving the way in which we process auditory information and thus the way that we listen and communicate. Some use modified Classical music others use sounds of nature.
Who/Where: The two best Known in Ireland are Pascal Maher’s Cluas (based in Dublin & Cork) and Karen O’Connor s LiFT (child development Centre (CDC) in Galway). Cluas also offer a home programme, The CDC offer a therapeutic listening programme that prepares the customer for the LiFT programme.
When: The LiFT (Listening Fitness) programme is an intensive 30-day sound therapy programme. It takes place in two phases or stages a) the Receptive Phase – three weeks and b) the Expressive Phase – three weeks and is generally separated by a two/three week break to allow for integration of developing skills.
A standard Cluas programme consists of three phases:
- An Assessment at a Cluas Centre
Briefing and hand-over of Parent’s Guide and Cluas Equipment at Cluas Centre
- The first stage is 15 days – for 2 hours each week-day (over 3 consecutive weeks)
- 4 weeks (with no Cluas programme)
- The second stage is 8 days – for 2 hours each week-day (over 2 consecutive weeks)
- 4 weeks (with no Cluas programme)
- The third stage is 8 days – for 2 hours each week-day (over 2 consecutive weeks)
Review, Listening Test and hand-back of Cluas Equipment at Cluas Centre
Websites for both: http://cluas.ie/ http://www.thechilddevelopmentcentre.com/
Cost is a big issue with these therapies. Assessments, Reviews, equipment (headphones, player SD/CDs) etc. Also both of the following articles should be read before embarking on any type of listening therapy.
https://researchautism.org/how-science-and-evidence-won-out-against-auditory-integration-therapies/
American Academy of Pediatrics
After reading her book, Mary and I decided to take Seán to the child development centre in Galway. During this time Seán had two seizures (more about this under Autism & Epilepsy) and he hasn’t been seen by the centre since.