The Audiology Clinic

The Audiology Clinic provides diagnostic testing for hearing loss and auditory processing disorders across the life span.

HEARING TESTING

It is estimated that around 30 million Americans have hearing losses that interfere with their daily lives. Basic hearing testing is used to identify the presence or absence of hearing loss, to determine the type of hearing loss and to formulate appropriate recommendations for the management of the hearing loss. Some hearing losses are best managed through medical intervention, others are better managed through the use of hearing aids or other assistive technologies. In some cases, where noise exposure may be a risk factor for additional decline in hearing, a plan for preventing additional hearing loss may be necessary. A comprehensive hearing evaluation is the first step in determining which approach is needed. (Please note: Our clinic does not dispense or repair hearing aids)

Our basic hearing test protocol involves a two-hour test session that includes an intake interview, testing, and a counseling session about the test results. Following testing a detailed report, including recommendations, is provided.

AUDITORY PROCESSING TESTING

Some individuals have listening problems not related to loss of hearing sensitivity. These people have difficulty processing what is heard. Auditory processing problems present a variety of challenges including, but not limited to: difficulty attending to speech; difficulty understanding speech, especially in groups or in noise; difficulty remembering what has been heard; and difficulty tolerating noise. When these problems occur in children they can interfere with learning. Children with auditory processing problems may have speech and language problems. They may have difficulty learning to read, spell, and write. Often these children do fairly well in one-to-one situations, but have difficulty learning in the classroom setting where background noise and other issues make it difficulty to hear. Auditory processing problems are rarely associated with active medical conditions and are generally best dealt with as a learning disability. Management is usually through a combination of listening therapies, environmental modifications, and the development of listening and coping strategies.

Our auditory processing test protocol involves a minimum of two two-hour test sessions usually several days to one week apart. Included in the test sessions are an intake interview, basic hearing testing to rule out hearing loss, general and specific auditory processing testing, and an exit interview at which time the test results are reviewed and recommendations are discussed. In some instances it may be necessary to schedule additional testing beyond the basic two-session format or to schedule the exit interview for a separate session. Upon completion of the testing and exit interview a detailed report is generated that includes a description of all tests and results, a summary of the findings, and client-specific recommendations dependent upon any specific processing difficulties identified.

To schedule an appointment please contact:
Nazareth Speech and Hearing Clinics
(585) 389-2772

For information about hearing or auditory processing please contact:
Dr. Jim Feuerstein, Ph.D., CCC-A, FAAA
(585) 389-2777 or jfeuers9@naz.edu