Auditory-Verbal Therapy

Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT) uses an individual's residual hearing to teach deaf or hearing impaired person to listen and speak. Amplification devices such as FM devices, cochlear implants and hearing aids are used in conjunction with AVT. 

Telethon Speech & Hearing is the State's premier provider of AVT. AVT has become an integral part of the Centre's hearing impairment program.

The principles of AVT include:

  • Early detection: Auditory-Verbal instruction beginds upon diagnosis of hearing loss.
  • Appropriate amplification:  Amplification technology will maximise the individuals residual hearing.
  • Parental participation: Parents are taught throug guidance, training and demonstration, how to become the primary facilitator's of their child's oral language development.
  • Listening to speak: The child learns to speak through listening to natural sounding speech. Correct spoken models of language are crucial to teaching the child to monitor vocalisations. Visual cues are not encouraged.
  • Assessment: Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of speech, listening and comprehension skills is integral.
  • Integration result: AVT (with appropriate amplification) enables a deaf or hearing impaired child to develop auditory receptive skills (understanding language) enough to attend a mainstream school and to enjoy greater social independence. 

For more information about other communication options, click here.

AV Certification Program

Auditory-Verbal certification training has been underway at the Centre since 2008 and continues under the guidance of in-house mentor, Pia Leeming. Currently four Certified Listening and Spoken Language Specialists (LSLS) AV Therapists are employed with two therapists undergoing certification.

The qualification is granted by AG Bell Academy for Listening and Spoken Language in USA. It requires postgraduate study including 80 hours theory with an additional 1200 practicum hours, cumulating in a three hour theory examination. Certification is renewed annually by producing evidence of continued education.

The AG Bell Academy certificate signifies that an individual has achieved their education, practical knowledge and experience according to the highest standards and conducts Auditory-Verbal practice in accordance with the professional code of conduct.

Telethon Speech & Hearing is an International Affiliate of the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Network. AG Bell is a lifelong resource, support network and advocate for listening, learning, talking and living independently with hearing loss. Headquartered in Washington, DC, AG Bell promotes the use of spoken language and hearing technology.