Auditory Therapy

At HearSense SC, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). Our audiologists are trained in the latest techniques and therapies to help our patients overcome the challenges associated with APD. We offer several auditory training options: Buffalo Model therapy, ARIA, and Interactive Metronome.

Buffalo Model Therapy

The Buffalo Model is a comprehensive therapy protocol designed to address the individual's diagnostic profile. This model identifies four basic categories: Decoding, Tolerance-Fading Memory (TFM), Integration, and Organization.

1. Decoding focuses on understanding and interpreting speech at the phonemic level.
2. Tolerance-Fading Memory (TFM) involves understanding speech in noise and improving auditory short-term memory and attention.
3. Integration addresses severe reading and spelling problems, often associated with dyslexia, and difficulties relating to both visual and auditory information.
4. Organization targets sequencing and organization skills, helping individuals follow directions in order.

The therapy involves two rounds of sessions, with a break in between to allow the brain to generalize, generate, and change. Specific interventions are tailored to the individual's needs, based on the categories affected.

Buffalo Model therapy is the one auditory training program we offer via telehealth. You can complete it either in person at our Columbia, South Carolina clinic or remotely from anywhere in South Carolina, North Carolina, or Georgia. Our other auditory training programs, including ARIA and Interactive Metronome, are provided in person at the clinic.

ARIA Therapy

ARIA (Auditory Rehabilitation for Interaural Asymmetry) is an intensive auditory training program delivered over four in-person sessions at our Columbia clinic.

Unlike programs that use headphones, ARIA is completed in a sound field, meaning the training material is presented through speakers in the room. The program uses speech material rather than tones or non-speech sounds, so the listening practice reflects the kind of processing demands that come up in everyday conversation.

At HearSense SC, we use ARIA for amusia and for auditory processing-related difficulties. Amusia refers to difficulty perceiving and processing musical elements such as pitch, melody, and rhythm, which draws on some of the same underlying auditory processing skills used for speech.

We are proud to be the only clinic offering ARIA therapy in South Carolina.

Interactive Metronome

Interactive Metronome (IM) uses computer-guided exercises with real-time feedback to train neural timing, attention, and coordination. Patients synchronize their movements to a steady auditory beat, which strengthens timing and communication between different regions of the brain. It is particularly helpful for those with auditory and whole-body integration deficits, or who struggle with rhythm, timing, and crossing midline.

We offer supervised in-office IM sessions as well as IM At Home devices, individually programmed for each patient. Learn more about Interactive Metronome here.