Management of CAPD must be deficit-specific and be directly related to the type of CAPD that was diagnosed. There may be a single type of CAPD deficit or a combination of different types. Most typically, if there are several types then each type will be sequentially targeted according to developmental trends.

  1. Direct intervention: may also be referred to as auditory training. These programs are designed individually for each child’s specific needs and intervention involves an array of techniques ranging from the use of sophisticated software programs to simpler games. The success of auditory training is based upon the neuroplasticity of the brain and its outcome is therefore highly dependent upon an intense training protocol that is consistently maintained. Rehabilitative success also depends upon early and aggressive intervention to effect a subsequent reorganization of the wiring of the brain.
  2. Environmental modification: which involves adjusting the environment to minimize noise and improve the child’s ability to process auditory information through close liaison with the school. These modifications can range from preferential classroom seating and the use of assistive listening devices, to suggestions for the teacher on methods that will elicit the best performance from a child.
  3. Compensatory strategies: teaches a child to use strategies to compensate for weak listening skills. Examples of this could include tape-recording lectures, to encouraging self-advocacy by teaching a child how to ask for repetition or clarification when necessary.

Any intervention of CAPD must also include a multidisciplinary team since there are large, shared and overlapping auditory, cognitive and language areas in the brain. As a result, the impact of poor listening skills can be highly varied and far-reaching.

Carol Lau is also the designer and owner of CAPDOTS (CAPD Online Therapy System), a web-based intervention program for CAPD. CAPDOTS must be prescribed and managed by a qualified service provider, audiologist or speech-language pathologist. CAPDOTS may or may not be prescribed for your child as a treatment option depending upon the appropriateness of the program.