Centre History
The Listening Centre is a North-Shore based centre that was created with a focus on Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) and the multiple ways it impacts individuals.
APD is a hearing disorder whereby the ears can process sounds normally but the hearing centres, pathways and circuits in the brain don’t correctly process the incoming information. APD is essentially a learning disability that impacts the brains ability to filter and interpret sounds and make sense of information. Individuals with APD often have difficulties receiving, organising and using auditory input, which can impact their day to day lives.
We offer Auditory Processing Assessments in which we aim to uncover the various types of processing difficulties that are occurring and why these could be happening. We also try to understand how they may be impacting a childs’ ability to learn, behave in socially acceptable ways and regulate their own emotions.
We also offer an Auditory Retraining therapy using the iLs therapy equipment which is based upon the original observations and findings of Dr Alfred Tomatis. The results of this therapy have been thoroughly researched and found to be very effective in treating the underlying causes of Auditory Processing Disorder and in turn, alleviating many of the symptoms initially reported.
Some of the conditions that Auditory Retraining therapy have been shown to have positive effects on are ADHD/ADD, Reading (dyslexia), Anxiety, Sensory Processing, ASD and sleep disturbances. So, although we will not be specialised in these conditions (and will not diagnose such disorders) we will work with individuals with these difficulties in order to help improve their level of functioning, quality of life and general well-being.
Our therapist Alice brings a high level of enthusiasm, dedication, and passion for working with children. Her approach includes focusing on a child as a whole, while creating a safe, fun and effective haven for her clients.
Get in touch
At The Listening Centre we know that finding help for your child can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. There is so much information out there that it can be hard to find the right direction to start. We feel very strongly that happy, healthy children are the most important thing and that it is vital that they feel understood and supported each step of their journey.
We believe that it isn’t enough to just diagnose a disorder or label a series of symptoms. It is more helpful to investigate the underlying causes for the symptoms, why they might be presenting themselves and how we can try help improve functioning.
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Auditory Processing Therapist
Founder
Alice Bresnahan
Alice graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Science (majoring in Psychology) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Psychology. She has also completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Psychology at Massey University.
Alice is a Grade C qualified assessor through NZCER and is a Level B assessor through Pearson. She has recently completed certificates in both Dyslexia Awareness and Special Educational Needs through the Online International Open Academy.
Alice has successfully completed the Advanced Practitioner training through Integrated Listening Systems and is proficient in both the Focus and Pro components of their Auditory Retraining Therapies. She has 4 years hands-on experience with the iLs therapy following her initial training on the Besson Auditory Retraining therapy, equipment and protocols at a centre in Melbourne, Australia.
Alice has been working with children since she was a young teenager and builds a rapport with children using a calm and friendly manner, creating an environment free of judgement. She has recently opened her own centre after the birth of her first child.
Education
MASSEY UNIVERSITY
Postgraduate Diploma of Educational Psychology
UNIVERSITY OF AUCKLAND
Bachelor of Science - Major in Psychology
Postgraduate Diploma of Psychology