At Sensible Rehab our occupational therapists have an extensive toolbox of resources to address many of a child’s unique sensory needs. One of those tools is the Therapeutic Listening Program; We are the only clinic in Salem trained to implement this research-based tool for treating people of all ages who have difficulty with a multitude of areas including processing sensory information, listening, attention, and communication.

Therapeutic Listening is a sound-based intervention often implemented as part of a comprehensive, multi-faceted therapy program, which encompasses much more than just the ears but the whole-body. Like other sensory systems, the auditory system does not work in isolation. Neurologically it is connected to all levels of brain function and as a result has a vast range of influence. How we listen impacts not only our overall physiology, but also our behavior.

Therapeutic Listening is a specific sound-based intervention that is embedded in a developmental and sensory integration perspective. The music in Therapeutic Listening gives the listener unique and precisely controlled sensory information. The music is electronically modified to highlight the parts of the sound spectrum that naturally capture attention and activate body movement, synchronizing it with the environment. Therapeutic Listening uses electronic modifications, along with the organized, rhythmical sound patterns inherent in music, to trigger the self-organizing capacities of the nervous system.

Many times our therapists find Therapeutic Listening an important addition to their Sensory Integration treatment modalities that can increase the intensity and shorten the duration of treatment.

Therapeutic Listening may benefit a wide variety of individuals of various ages who might exhibit:

• poor attention
• difficulties interacting with peers and limited play skills
• challenges with transitions or changes in routine
• difficulty communicating (both verbal and non-verbal)
• struggles with sleep, bowel and bladder control, and eating
• trouble following directions
• challenges perceiving and navigating space
• poor timing and sequencing of motor skills
• difficulties with irritability, mood
• difficulties with regulating their energy level (i.e. too low arousal or hyperactive)
• postural insecurity (fear of heights, playing on playground equipment)
• abnormal responses to various sensory stimuli (sounds, touch, taste, pain)
• poor praxis and motor planning: coming up with an idea, planning, and completing the task
• difficulty responding to sounds and verbal directions

This is not a comprehensive list of individuals who could benefit from Therapeutic Listening.  Please consult your therapist to determine if Therapeutic Listening is appropriate for you.