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Therapeutic Listening
Therapeutic listening is a structured program of listening to specially designed music that is individually selected for each client. The specially designed music (modulated CDs, Samonas CDs, and structured listening CDs) is computer processed to highlight the tones that provide the most exercise to the inner ear. Your occupational therapist will evaluate your child to determine which CD is the most beneficial. The family or caregivers in the home or school setting carry out the therapeutic listening program.
How does therapeutic listening work?
The music stimulates the attending and organizing mechanisms of the middle ear, central nervous system, and autonomic nervous system. The auditory system provides the foundation for the organization of all other senses and other learning. Specifically, therapeutic listening provides exercise to the muscles of the inner ear to establish this strong foundation.
How long will my child need to use therapeutic listening?
The greater the degree of difficulties with modulation the longer a client will remain on modulated music. If a client has a history of extreme sensitivity to a variety of sensory input and has difficulty with basic physiological regulation (wake/sleep, appetite cycles, bladder control, etc.), the client will likely remain on modulated music for 10-12 weeks before any other CDs are introduced. A child may remain on a therapeutic listening program for 6-8 months total.
How do I know the program is working?
- You see changes in function or targeted behaviors. Your OT will help you to identify these improvements.
- Mild stress may be present but isn't enough to create an extreme response.
Possible side effects of the program
- Some children may complain of an "itch" in their ear. This is caused by exercise to a muscle much like a strain felt after exercising any other muscle of the body.
- The child's typical daily patterns (sleep, appetite) may be temporarily disrupted. This should only persist for a day or two. Please contact your therapist if this persists for longer.
If you have any questions regarding the therapeutic listening program, please call your Pediatric Therapy Services therapist at: (507) 388-KIDS (5437).
