APD Evaluations

At HearSense SC, we understand that traditional hearing tests, while important, do not provide the full picture of an individual's auditory capabilities. This is why we offer comprehensive Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) evaluations, which delve deeper into how the neural pathways and the brain analyze and process what you hear.

Understanding APD

APD, also known as Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), is a condition where individuals, despite having normal hearing sensitivity, struggle to discriminate, recognize, or comprehend complex sounds, such as those used in words. This is not a problem with hearing per se, but rather with the hearing process. The electrical signals that come from the sound waves into the ear and that are sent to the brain arrive with a delay or distortion, which makes learning and memorizing very difficult.

The APD Evaluation Process

Our APD evaluations are performed by audiologists with specialized training in the series of tests used to evaluate the central auditory nervous system. Dr. Megan Thomas and Dr. Laurel Eng both provide APD testing.

The process differs slightly for children and adults, but in both cases the evaluation itself is completed in person at our Columbia clinic, with the consultations before and after handled by telehealth.

Pediatric APD Evaluations

1. Telehealth consultation (30 minutes). We review the case history, determine whether testing is appropriate, and explain what the evaluation involves so you know what to expect.
2. In-person APD evaluation (2 hours). The evaluation is completed at our Columbia clinic and includes a primary reflex check.
3. Telehealth results consultation (1 hour). About one week after testing, we go through the findings together and discuss recommendations.
4. Written report. The full written report is available within one week.

Adult APD Evaluations

1. Confirming hearing sensitivity. Normal hearing needs to be established before APD testing. If you have not had a recent hearing test, we can complete one in the clinic beforehand.
2. In-person APD evaluation (approximately 2 hours). The evaluation is completed at our Columbia clinic.
3. Telehealth results consultation (30 minutes). About one week after testing, we review the results and recommendations with you. The report is generally available before this appointment.

The specific tests selected depend on age, the referring complaint, test reliability and validity, and the specific auditory process assessed by each test. If an audiological evaluation to confirm normal hearing sensitivity has not previously been done, a peripheral audiologic evaluation including acoustic reflex testing, otoacoustic emissions, and speech-in-noise testing will be completed prior to the tests of central auditory processing.

Who Can Benefit from APD Evaluations?

APD evaluations can be beneficial for both children and adults who have normal hearing but struggle with understanding and processing auditory information. This can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties with language, learning, reading, and spelling, or excessive fatigue after listening for extended periods.

Our Approach

At HearSense SC, we believe in a multidisciplinary approach to evaluating and managing auditory processing disorders. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the individual's auditory processing abilities, identify any areas of difficulty, and develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan may include environmental modifications, management strategies, auditory training, and/or the use of assistive listening devices.