Auditory Integration Training (AIT)
According to a 2013 Study, “Sensory Response Patterns in Nonverbal Children with ASD”, it is estimated that 25 to 50% of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) never develop spoken language beyond a few words or utterances. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) refers to communication methods that help or replace speaking or writing for individuals who struggle to production or comprehend spoken or written language. AAC includes simple systems such as pictures, gestures, and pointing, as well as more complex techniques involving computer technology.
Hypersensitivity to certain sounds and frequencies often contribute to many behaviors or learning problems. Auditory Integration Therapy (AIT) consists of playing certain frequencies that people are hypersensitive to through headphones to desensitize the person for two half-hour sessions a day for 10 consecutive days. As of 2018, AIT does not meet scientific standards for efficacy that would justify its practice by audiologists and speech-language pathologists, therefore, insurance will not cover this expense. There are two main methods – Berard Training and Tomatis. The most common improvements reported by parents include a reduction in sound sensitivity, improvement in attention and listening, and a decrease in behavioral issues. To read detailed information on studies showing some positive results visit the Autism Research Institute.
Society for Auditory Intervention Techniques (SAIT)
www.berardaitwebsite.com
A web-based resource for parents and professionals interested in Berard AIT and some of the other sound-based interventions that have been developed.
Electronic Auditory Stimulation effect (EASe)
https://vision-play.com/
Audio CD series is the original disc-based auditory intervention program. The EASe CD is easy to use, simple and safe tool for occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, listening therapists and parents, to teach a child challenged with sensory processing issues, sound sensitivity, central auditory processing disorder (CAPD), hearing or developmental issues, to better manage noise. The EASe CD listening program is based on the Guy Berard method of auditory integration training (similar to Tomatis) and can be carried out at home, at school or in a therapist’s office with an inexpensive CD player and a high quality pair of headphones.
Autism Society Options Policy
This Resource Guide was developed to provide families and professionals with an opportunity to find resources related to autism in the Inland Empire in one place.
All information provided or published by the Autism Society Inland Empire is for information purposes only. Specific treatment, therapy or services should be provided to an individual only at the direction of the individual’s doctor, caregiver, or other qualified professional. References to any treatment or therapy option, program, service, or treatment provider are not an endorsement by the Autism Society. References of treatments, therapies, programs, services, and/or providers are not intended to be comprehensive statements. You should investigate alternatives that may be more appropriate for a specific individual. The Autism Society assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information published or provided. The Autism Society Inland Empire provides information, but it does not constitute medical or legal information. Referrals provided are suggestions to organizations that might help, but do not constitute a recommendation. The Autism Society Inland Empire cannot be held responsible for consequences that arise from individual dealings with a professional or organization. The inclusion of any organization does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval. The Autism Society Inland Empire may add or remove organizations from this list at its discretion.
