Auditory-Verbal Therapy

Teaching deaf children spoken language through listening

Overview

Auditory verbal therapy is an approach for children who are deaf or hard of hearing that aims to develop spoken language mainly through listening, using hearing aids or cochlear implants. Parents and caregivers are central, with sessions coaching them to build listening and talking into daily routines. It is one of several communication approaches available to families, alongside sign language, bilingual sign and spoken language programs, total communication, and cued speech. Certified practitioners are known as Listening and Spoken Language Specialists. Families typically choose an approach after counselling about their child and their goals.