What is APD?
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) affects how the brain interprets sound, even when hearing is normal. People may hear clearly but still struggle to make sense of what they hear, especially in noisy environments.
Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder
Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) refers to difficulties in how the brain processes sound—even when hearing is normal. People with APD can hear sounds clearly, but their brain struggles to interpret, organize, or make sense of what they hear. This can affect the ability to understand speech, follow directions, learn in noisy environments, and distinguish between similar sounds.
Occurs in both children and adults
Impacts listening, learning, and communication
Treatable with targeted auditory training and therapy
Common Signs and Symptoms of APD
APD can manifest differently in each person, but certain patterns are common. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward getting help:
Difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments
Trouble following directions or remembering auditory information
Problems with reading, spelling, or distinguishing similar sounds
.jpg)
Who Can Have APD and How Is It Diagnosed?
APD can affect both children and adults. Children can be tested as young as 3.5 years old through comprehensive auditory processing evaluations. These evaluations are different from standard hearing tests—while hearing tests check if you can hear sounds, APD evaluations assess how well your brain processes and interprets those sounds. A full hearing evaluation is required within the past six months before APD testing can be performed.
APD often occurs alongside other conditions like ADHD, Dyslexia, autism spectrum, or learning disabilities, which is why specialized testing is needed to identify the specific processing challenges someone faces.
APD Evaluations and Evidence-Based Treatment at ListenHEAR
If you're concerned about APD, we're here to help. Our team evaluates and treats children as young as 3.5 and adults of all ages. We take time to understand your specific listening challenges and build a treatment plan around them. Each session is designed to strengthen how your brain processes sound, making it easier to follow conversations, retain information, and succeed in school or work.
Appointments are available in person at our Florida and Virginia offices or through telehealth across eight states. Our audiologists focus on APD every day, giving you access to specialized care that addresses the root of listening difficulties. Contact us at (239) 444-7393 in Florida or (703) 783-4327 in Virginia to schedule your evaluation.
Featured Content
Access our featured podcasts, videos, and articles sharing expert insights on APD evaluation, treatment, and educational advocacy.
Dr. Rachel Cohen featured in Next Avenue's Article on APD