Auditory Integration Training (AIT)
Auditory Integration Training (AIT) is one area of specialty we provide.
There are a variety of sound stimulation programs available. K&L Solutions provides The Berard Method of Auditory Integration Training, considered to be the cornerstone to sound-based intervention. Our years of experience and knowledge may be just what you or your child is missing. The Berard Method is a ten day, educational technique which helps individuals hear all frequencies more evenly, to improve the processing of auditory input and to decrease hyper-or hypo-sensitivity to specific environmental and speech sounds.
What is Auditory Integration Training?
Dr. Guy Berard, a French physician, developed his method dealing with hypersensitive or asymmetric aspects of hearing. Auditory Integration Training is a listening technique associated with filtering sound frequencies solely to help the ear process sound. His thesis was that hypersensitive hearing or asymmetric hearing interfered with the processing of auditory information. The method works on changing (retraining) the acoustic reflex muscle in the middle ear allowing sound to be processed more efficiently. The Berard method of AIT has important relevance to parents and educators of young children as well as adults because the focus of this intervention is on retraining the system to improve its performance rather than teaching compensatory strategies to help children or adults manage better with an inefficient auditory system. By improving the performance of the auditory processing system, individuals benefit more from the support services subsequently provided and their rate of progress is increased.
What does Auditory Integration Training involve?
An assessment of the prospective client’s auditory system is conducted, including an audiogram. The assessment will indicate whether the individual is an appropriate candidate for AIT. The information in the audiogram will be used to determine to proper settings for the electronic filtering device used in AIT. During Berard AIT, music is sent through a specialized electronic device (Earducator). The device randomizes and filters the frequencies from the music source and sends these modified sounds into the client’s ears through a set of specialized headphones. The randomized frequencies mobilize and exercise the inner ear and the brain. It is important to note that if the client’s audiogram has indicated a hypersensitivity to certain frequencies, the device will modulate and control the volume of those particular sensitive frequencies. The training is structured as follows: AIT requires twenty sessions. Each session involves 30 minutes of listening time, twice per day. A break of at least three hours is needed between sessions per day. Ideally, the client does two thirty-minute sessions for a period of ten consecutive days. However, it is possible to set up the listening sessions Monday-Friday with a weekend break, and then resume the following week. A mid-point assessment is done after ten sessions to reassess the client’s hearing and note any changes. Any necessary changes to the settings on the electronic device are made at this time for the remaining ten listening sessions. A third assessment is given upon completion of the twenty sessions. After the twenty sessions, the client’s hearing could show significant improvement with all or most frequencies being perceived within normal ranges. Some behavioral changes may be seen within a few weeks of treatment. Other behavior changes involve a learning and re-organization process and will generally become evident over the course of three to six months.
Who should consider Auditory Integration Training?
Children and adults with:
Autism
Asperger’s Syndrome
Hypersensitive Hearing
ADHD
Learning Disabilities
Dyslexia
Sensory Integration Dysfunction
Auditory Processing Disorder
Behavior Disorders
Are there any risks associated with AIT?
There is no evidence to indicate that Auditory Integration Training is harmful in any way. AIT is an educational listening technique. Under OSHA standards the sound level presented by the Earducator does not exceed acceptable volume levels. K&L Solutions monitors the volume level by the use of a sound meter.
What improvements have teachers, parents, and individuals reported after completion of Auditory Integration Training?
Reduction of hyper-acute and/or painful hearing
Fewer complaints of sounds causing pain or discomfort
Less startle responses to loud noises
More appropriate vocal intensity (volume)
More appropriate affect, expression and interaction
Improved language and reading comprehension
Improved academic performance
Improvement in social skills
Less impulsivity and restlessness
Reduction in distractibility
Increased independence and self-esteem