Auditory-Verbal Therapy: Science, Research, and Practice
Uma Soman, Stephanie Gardiner-Walsh
Abstract
Auditory-Verbal Therapy: Science, Research, and Practice is a comprehensive collection of chapters that focus on the theory and practice of Auditory-Verbal Therapy (AVT) written by over 40 field experts from across the globe, including deaf authors. Twenty-seven chapters are divided into five sections: (a) fundamentals of AVT, (b) importance of auditory access and hearing technology, (c) development across essential domains in AVT, (d) implementation, and (e) AVT for diverse populations. The emphasis of this text is on young children (under age 8) who have received early intervention and have optimal auditory access through hearing technology. Chapters include research along with resources and suggestions for development of listening, language, speech, cognition, play, and literacy skills. Strategies, prompts, and reflection questions that practitioners can use when planning intervention, coaching families, and evaluating a child’s progress are also included. The text is easy to read without diluting the concepts described. This handbook serves as a foundation for starting AVT training with families (particularly Chapters 15 and 17) and to deepen the reader’s understanding of AVT methods. Chapters 9–14 focus on developmental domains and provide a foundation in typical development intervention for practitioners and families. Tables, charts, and other summaries guide practitioners to reflect on a child’s progress, coach parents, and individualize therapy. The authors encourage users to adapt content to their cultural–linguistic context. Case studies provide a quasi-hands-on experience for the reader to implement theory into practice and are reflective of the changing diversity in children who receive AVT. In short, this handbook provides practicing specialists an overview, but also enough prompts to facilitate reflection on their current practice for personal professional growth.