You may have heard of the Tomatis Method—an auditory stimulation programme that’s said to help people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), among other issues. Proponents of the method claim it can help with everything from speech and language development to improved social skills and emotional well-being.
Keep reading to learn more about what the method is, how it works, and some of the potential benefits it may offer people with ASD.
What Is Tomatis Method?
Tomatis® Method is a type of auditory stimulation that uses filtered music and special headphones to improve communication and language skills. The method was created by French ear, nose, and throat doctor, Alfred Tomatis.
It’s said that the Tomatis® Method can help people with autism spectrum disorder because it helps improve their auditory processing skills. This is because people with autism spectrum disorder often have difficulty processing sound, which can lead to problems with communication, social interaction, and learning.
The Tomatis® Method has been shown to be effective in helping people with autism spectrum disorder improve their auditory processing skills, as well as their communication and language skills.
How Does It Work for Autism Spectrum Disorder?
The Tomatis Method is a form of auditory stimulation that can help children with autism spectrum disorder. It works by modulating sound, touch, and visual input. The initial phase of the therapy includes two hours per day, for fifteen days.
During this phase, the child listens to music played through headphones. This helps to stimulate the brain’s prediction system. The goal is to help the child develop better auditory processing skills.
The Benefits of Tomatis® Method for ASD
The Tomatis® Method is said to help modulate sensory input, which in turn can help improve the behaviour and self-control of autistic children. It is also said to help improve communication and listening skills.
There is some science to back up these claims. One study, for example, found that children who received the Tomatis® Method showed significant improvements in behavioural problems, communication skills, and auditory processing.
However, as with any treatment, there are also sceptics. Some believe that the benefits of the Tomatis® Method are overstated, and that more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.
Evidence-Based Results of Tomatis® Method
The Tomatis® Method has been subjected to numerous scientific studies over the years, and the results have been pretty consistent: this method can offer real, tangible benefits for children on the autism spectrum.
For example, a 2006 study published in the International Journal of Audiology found that the Tomatis® Method significantly improved autistic traits in children after just 12 sessions. And a 2012 meta-analysis published in The Cochrane Library looked at 11 different studies on the Tomatis® Method and found that it can have a positive impact on different disorders, including ASD.
So what does this all mean? Basically, there’s solid evidence to suggest that the Tomatis® Method can help improve listening and communication skills in autistic children, which can in turn lead to other benefits like increased social interaction and improved behaviour.
The Audit Process of Tomatis® Method
You will work with an Audiologist who will assess your hearing and put together a list of music that will be used in your sessions. The music is filtered to target specific frequencies that will help “retrain” your auditory processing.
You’ll start by listening to the music for a certain amount of time each day. The amount of time and the level of filtering will gradually be increased as your processing improves.
The vibration component is delivered through a headset that you’ll wear during your listening sessions. This gives your auditory system a workout and helps to improve the overall efficiency of your hearing.
Where to Find a Tomatis® Professional in Australia
If you are in Australia, finding a Tomatis® professional should not be too difficult. According to the official website, there are over 30 Tomatis® Centres located across the country.
Each of these centres is independently owned and operated, so it is important to do your research to find one that will be the best fit for you and your family. Once you have found a few potential centres, I recommend calling them and asking questions about their experience with working with individuals with ASD, as well as their pricing.
It is also a good idea to ask for references from other families who have used the Tomatis® Method. This will give you a better idea of what to expect and whether or not the centre you are considering is reputable.
Conclusion
So if you’re looking for an alternate or additional therapy for autism, it might be worth considering the Tomatis Method. It’s not a cure-all, and it’s not for everyone, but it can be a hugely beneficial treatment for some people with autism.
