Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects how the brain processes sound — not how well the ears hear.

Many people with APD have normal hearing tests but struggle to understand speech, especially in background noise or busy environments.

At Hypatia Clinic, we provide specialist, evidence-based assessment and targeted treatment for APD.

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What is APD?

APD affects how the brain interprets sound, particularly speech.

This can impact:

• Understanding speech in noise

• Following conversations

• Processing verbal instructions

• Listening stamina and concentration

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Common Symptoms

You or your child may notice:

• Difficulty hearing in background noise

• Frequently asking for repetition

• Mishearing words

• Struggling to follow conversations

• Listening fatigue

• Poor concentration when listening

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Who We See

We assess:

• Children and adults with suspected APD

• Patients with normal hearing but ongoing listening difficulties

• Individuals with complex auditory or vestibular symptoms

• Head injury and medico-legal cases

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How is APD Diagnosed?

APD requires a specialist assessment — it cannot be identified through a standard hearing test.

Assessment includes:

• Detailed case history

• Hearing assessment

• Specialist APD testing

We use advanced tools such as:

• LISN-S (speech in noise and spatial hearing)

• Buffalo Model (identifies specific processing difficulties)

Additional tests are selected based on your results.

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Understanding Your Listening Profile

A key part of assessment is identifying whether difficulties are:

Bottom-up (sensory)

• Difficulty separating speech from noise

• Reduced sound clarity

Top-down (cognitive)

• Attention and listening focus

• Auditory memory and processing

Most patients have a combination of both. This profiling allows us to create a fully tailored treatment plan.

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Treatment & Management

Treatment is personalised and focused on real-world listening improvement.

1. One-to-One Auditory Training
Structured, targeted therapy sessions

2. Digital Training (LACE AI)

• Improves speech-in-noise understanding

• Builds listening stamina

3. Strategies & Support

• Practical listening techniques

• School/workplace adaptations

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Why Specialist Diagnosis Matters

Without proper assessment:

• Difficulties may be misunderstood

• Treatment may be ineffective

A specialist approach ensures accurate diagnosis and meaningful progress.

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Fees

• APD Assessment: £550

• Rehabilitation Programme: £1,260

The assessment is typically 3 hours across two appointments.
For medico-legal cases, please contact us directly on info@hypatiaclinic.co.uk

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APD Rehabilitation Programme

Effective treatment starts with a comprehensive assessment (£550) to understand your individual listening profile.

 

Who Is It For?

Recommended for patients who:

• Have APD or clear auditory processing difficulties

• Struggle with listening despite normal hearing

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Programme Overview

A 6-week clinician-guided programme designed to improve:

• Speech understanding in noise

• Processing of complex speech

• Listening stamina

Delivered remotely with full clinical support.

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Programme Structure

Home Training

• 20–30 minutes

• 4–5 times per week

Clinical Sessions

• Weekly (45 minutes)

• 6 sessions total

Includes:

• Progress tracking

• Targeted exercises

• Strategy coaching

• Fatigue management

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Personalised Approach

Your programme is tailored to your assessment results, ensuring focused and effective improvement.

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FAQ

What’s the difference between hearing loss and APD?
Hearing loss affects the ears; APD affects how the brain processes sound.

Can APD be treated?
Yes — targeted training and strategies can significantly improve listening and communication.

Is APD only seen in children?
No — it affects both children and adults.

Do I need a referral?
No — you can book directly.