Who Diagnoses Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)?
Written by Parker Vanegas, MA CCC-SLP, Cert. AVT, LSLS
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects how the brain processes sounds, making it hard for people to understand or respond to auditory information, even when their hearing is normal. Since APD isn’t caused by problems with the physical parts of the ear, diagnosing it can be tricky and requires a thorough evaluation. Let’s take a closer look at who diagnoses APD, what the process involves, and why a team approach is important.
1. Audiologists: The Main Specialists
Audiologists are the primary professionals who evaluate individuals for APD. They specialize in assessing hearing and auditory processing through various tests, such as:
Decoding: Checking how well someone can process and interpret speech sounds quickly and accurately.
Auditory memory: Assessing the ability to understand and remember spoken information, especially in noisy environments.
Organization: Testing how well auditory information is sequenced and organized.
Integration: Evaluating how auditory information is combined with other senses, like vision.
Audiologists use these tests to identify if someone has difficulties with auditory processing that go beyond typical hearing loss.
Our very own, Dr. Jacy Manning, PhD. CCC-A, is ready to get started!
2. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs): Understanding Language Impacts
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) often work alongside audiologists to diagnose APD. While audiologists focus on how the brain processes sounds, SLPs assess how this affects language. They look at skills like:
Receptive language: How well someone understands words, sentences, and commands.
Expressive language: The ability to organize and clearly express thoughts.
Phonological processing: Understanding and working with the sounds in words, which is essential for reading and spelling.
Processing speed: How quickly someone can understand and respond to spoken language.
SLPs help identify how auditory processing challenges affect communication in school, work, and social settings.
3. Neuropsychologists: Looking at the Big Picture
In some cases, a neuropsychologist may be involved, especially if there are other concerns like attention issues or learning disabilities. Neuropsychologists explore how auditory processing connects to broader cognitive functions, such as:
Cognitive processing: How the brain interprets and organizes information.
Attention: The ability to focus on sounds while ignoring distractions.
Memory: How well someone can store and recall auditory information.
This additional layer of assessment helps determine if auditory processing issues are part of a larger cognitive pattern.
4. Pediatricians and Primary Care Providers: The First Step
Pediatricians and primary care doctors don’t diagnose APD but often start the process. If a child struggles with listening or comprehension, the doctor might first check for hearing loss or other conditions. If hearing is normal, they may refer the child to an audiologist or SLP for further testing. These providers also address health factors like ear infections or allergies that might impact auditory processing.
5. The Importance of Teamwork
Diagnosing APD often involves collaboration among professionals because symptoms can overlap with conditions like ADHD, dyslexia, or language disorders. A team approach—including audiologists, SLPs, neuropsychologists, and doctors—ensures a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment plan.
Steps in the Diagnostic Process
Here’s how APD is typically diagnosed:
Initial Screening: A pediatrician or primary care provider may do a basic screening to rule out hearing loss or other medical issues.
Specialist Referral: If hearing is normal, the doctor may refer the individual to an audiologist or SLP for more in-depth testing.
Comprehensive Testing: Audiologists conduct detailed auditory processing tests. If APD is suspected, additional evaluations may be done by SLPs or neuropsychologists.
Collaboration: Professionals review test results together to determine a diagnosis.
Treatment Plan: A personalized plan is created, which might include therapy, classroom or workplace accommodations, and strategies to improve auditory processing skills.
Final Thoughts
APD is a complex condition that requires the expertise of various professionals to diagnose accurately. Audiologists lead the process, but the involvement of SLPs, neuropsychologists, and pediatricians ensures a thorough and accurate diagnosis. With a collaborative approach, individuals with APD can get the support they need to improve their communication and quality of life.
If you or someone you know has trouble listening, following directions, or understanding speech in noisy settings, we’re here to help. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a big difference in achieving better outcomes at school, work, and beyond.
Ready to talk with a specialist about an APD Evaluation? Let’s get started!
