Perth’s Leading Auditory Processing Disorder Specialists

At RT Speech and Hearing, we provide comprehensive auditory processing disorder (APD) assessment and management services in Perth. Our expert audiologists use evidence-based approaches to diagnose and treat auditory processing disorders in both children and adults, helping individuals overcome listening difficulties and improve their quality of life.

We understand that APD affects more than just hearing – it impacts learning, communication, relationships, and quality of life. That’s why we take a holistic approach, addressing not only the auditory processing difficulties but also their broader effects on daily functioning.

Contact RT Speech and Hearing today to schedule your comprehensive APD assessment and take the first step towards better auditory processing and improved quality of life.

What is Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?

Auditory Processing Disorder is a hearing problem that affects how the brain processes auditory information. Unlike hearing loss, people with APD typically have normal hearing sensitivity but struggle to interpret and make sense of sounds, particularly speech. APD affects the central auditory nervous system’s ability to process auditory information efficiently and accurately.

Children and adults with APD may have difficulty:

Understanding speech in background noise
Following multi-step instructions
Distinguishing between similar sounds
Localising sound sources
Processing rapid speech
Remembering auditory information

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What causes Auditory Processing Disorder?

The cause of APD is often unknown
There is no one cause of APD
APD can be linked to many conditions
In older adults, conditions might include stroke and head trauma
In children, APD can be linked to issues at birth, such as pre-term births, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder, developmental delays and disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or repeated ear infections

Signs and Symptoms of APD

In Children:

Finds it hard to locate where sound is coming from
Struggles to follow a series of instructions. They complete some not all instructions or complete them in the wrong order
Pronounces some sounds in words the ‘wrong’ way
Often asking you to repeat what you have said
Confuses similar sounding words for example “sheep” for “cheek”
Hears better if they watch you as you speak
Struggles to hear what you are saying when there’s background noise
Finds it hard to keep up when you are speaking too fast
Often appears to ignore what you are saying when they are engrossed in an activity

In Adults:

Difficulty understanding words that are spoken quickly or when in a noisy room or in group settings
Difficulty following directions or remembering verbal information
Take longer to reply during conversations with another person or in a small group (2-3 other people)
Problems following telephone conversations
Fatigue from the effort that it takes to listen
Avoids social situations that involves listening

Our Comprehensive APD Assessment Process

Initial Consultation and Case History
We begin with a detailed discussion of listening difficulties, developmental history, and impact on daily life.

Hearing Assessment
Comprehensive hearing evaluation to rule out hearing loss and ensure normal peripheral hearing.

Auditory Processing
Specialised tests examining various aspects of auditory processing:

Dichotic listening tests
Temporal processing tests
Auditory discrimination tasks including non-speech auditory processing
Speech-in-noise evaluations
Speech and language evaluation if needed

Comprehensive Reporting
Detailed written report with findings, diagnostic conclusions, and personalised management recommendations.

APD Management and Treatment Options

Early intervention can assist with managing APD. Our audiologist can assist with APD assessment and intervention.

Recommendations may include:

Wireless remote microphones
Computer-based auditory training programs or exercises to address areas of weakness
Environment modifications to improve the acoustics of listening situations
Communication strategies to use in the classroom situation
Phonological awareness training or speech and language intervention with a speech-language pathologist to address specific difficulties

Why Choose RT Speech and Hearing for APD Assessment and Management?

RT Speech and Hearing stands out as a leading provider for auditory processing disorder (APD) assessment and management, thanks to its specialist expertise and commitment to best practices. Dr Marc Oh, a HearingUp network provider, brings a wealth of experience in APD, following industry standards and evidence-based protocols. The assessment process is comprehensive, using multiple specialised tests to accurately identify processing difficulties and determine the most suitable management strategies. Treatment plans are highly personalised, designed around each individual’s unique needs, lifestyle, and goals—whether it’s a child struggling in school or an adult facing challenges at work.

Our clinic’s approach is family-centred, involving families in every step, offering education and support to help them implement strategies at home and advocate for necessary accommodations in educational or workplace settings. Collaboration with local schools, speech pathologists, and medical professionals ensures coordinated care within the Perth healthcare community.

Our proven track record is reflected in successful outcomes and the trust of families and healthcare professionals who regularly refer others based on their positive experiences.

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Personalised care, evidence-based assessment, and ongoing support