What is Auditory Integration Training?
Auditory Integration Training is a type of sound therapy, similar to the Tomatis method. It aims to reduce sensitivity to sounds or other problems with how sounds are processed.
A person doing Auditory Integration Training uses headphones to listen to modified music, sometimes while doing physical exercises or activities.
This and other similar therapies are known by different names, including Berard AIT and Integrated Listening Systems (ILS).
Who is Auditory Integration Training for?
Supporters of Auditory Integration Training say it can be used to help autistic children aged 3 years or older who have additional sensory problems like painful or hypersensitive hearing.
Auditory Integration Training should never be used with children who:
- have a history of seizures
- are under 3 years
- have ear wax problems, inner ear damage, ear infections or hearing loss.
What is Auditory Integration Training used for?
Practitioners of Auditory Integration Training say that it can reduce:
- distortions in hearing
- extremely sensitive hearing
- irregularities in how sounds are processed.
Some practitioners also claim that Auditory Integration Training can improve speech and language difficulties and other core autism characteristics.
There's no high-quality research showing that Auditory Integration Training helps with these things.
Where does Auditory Integration Training come from?
Auditory Integration Training was developed in the 1960s by an ear, nose and throat specialist, Dr Guy Berard, with the aim of reducing the effects of auditory damage. It was first used with autistic people in 1975.
What is the idea behind Auditory Integration Training for autistic children?
Auditory Integration Training is based on the idea that our behaviour can be influenced by how we hear. Supporters of this theory also believe that hypersensitive hearing can limit people’s ability to learn and pay attention.
What does Auditory Integration Training involve?
Typically, children attend 30-minute training sessions twice a day for 10 days. In each session, children listen to music on headphones. The music has been altered to remove or enhance certain sounds. The volume is carefully controlled.
The therapy usually starts by presenting familiar sounds. Over time, more challenging sounds (usually those with a high or low frequency) are introduced. It’s claimed that this helps children slowly get used to the sounds so they’re no longer a problem.
To reduce or prevent other hearing issues, it’s recommended that children doing Auditory Integration Training are examined at the beginning, middle and end of the therapy by a qualified health professional or audiology specialist. This will help to avoid problems like ear wax or fluid build-up and possible damage to eardrums.
Does Auditory Integration Training help autistic children?
There’s no evidence that Auditory Integration Therapy or other sound therapies help with speech, language or the core characteristics of autism.
Many autistic children experience sound in diverse ways, and some experience sensitivity or discomfort. But research hasn’t shown that sound sensitivities cause autism. There’s also no evidence that Auditory Integration Training can change sound sensitivity or that this would help children in their daily lives.
Which professionals offer Auditory Integration Training?
There are some approved ‘Berard practitioners’, but there are no formal, internationally registered qualifications for practising Auditory Integration Training. Some speech and language pathologists and occupational therapists might be involved in organisations offering Auditory Integration Training.
Where can you find an Auditory Integration Training therapist?
If you’re interested in Auditory Integration Training, see your GP or one of the other professionals working with your child. They can talk with you about this therapy’s risks and benefits.
You could also talk about it with your NDIA planner, early childhood partner or local area coordinator, if you have one.
How are parents involved in Auditory Integration Training?
If your child is doing Auditory Integration Training, your only involvement is taking your child to sessions.
If you’re concerned about your child’s hearing, it’s best to see your GP or arrange a hearing test with an audiologist.
How much does Auditory Integration Training cost?
Auditory Integration Training sessions can range from $1200 to $2000 for a total of 20 sessions, but costs vary depending on the service or therapist you use. Auditory testing might involve additional costs.
Medicare doesn’t fund this therapy, so you can’t get Medicare rebates. Some private health care funds might cover a portion of the consultation fee. This can be claimed immediately if the provider has HICAPS.
Auditory Integration Training is not approved for funding in NDIS plans.
Therapies and supports for autistic children range from behavioural therapies and developmental approaches to medicines and alternative therapies. When you understand the main types of therapies and supports for autistic children, it’ll be easier to work out the approach that will best suit your child.