Each client receives a customized Dynamic Listening Program based on the Listening Test and the issues and goals of the client. Additional movement, sound/voice or bodywork therapies may also be incorporated. All programs vary according to the client’s specific condition; however, a typical core program involves 23-30 sessions @ 1 hour and 20 minutes each, with one or two 3-week breaks in the middle.

Initial Consultation Phase

A potential client begins with a Listening Test and Evaluation. The Listening Test measures both bone and air conduction in a sound-ambient room (not sound proof) and provides the basis for the client’s Dynamic Listening program. An extensive interview and evaluation are done concurrent with the Listening Test to review relevant history, concerns and goals. Total time is about 90 minutes.

Preceeding this test, a short phone conversation between Robert Power and the potential client takes place in order to ensure that the time and cost of the Initial Consultation is worthwhile and that the Dynamic Listening Program is likely to be of benefit.

(The Listening Test is different than a hearing test done by an audiologist.)

Receptive Listening Phase

The receptive phase of the program “opens” the ear, charges the nervous system and improves auditory processing. The duration of this phase is generally 15 sessions, ideally taking place 3 times a week. A Listening Test and consultation are given before Session 7 or 8, and again after Session 15.

Clients (children and adults) listen to music (most often Mozart) that goes from being full spectrum to gradually filtered and also gated. It may also be enhanced in certain frequency ranges depending on the issues of the client.

Break

The break usually lasts 3 weeks. No Dynamic Listening sessions are scheduled and the client's system has time to assimilate the changes which have been made.

Expressive Listening Phase

We continue the program with a Listening Test to evaluate the assimilation of the changes over the break, to share feedback and review the program for the next 8 sessions of this phase. Sessions are scheduled over a 3 week period.

The Expressive Listening Phase addresses the ear-voice control loop, that is, the energizing effect and experience of hearing one’s own voice, along with its impact on learning (such as in reading, receiving auditory information such as at lectures or in school, and communicating). The client hums, sings, or speaks into a microphone; the sounds are electronically enriched and fed back through the headphones. This “expressive listening” increases our ability to truly listen to one’s self and to move into effective dialogue and communication with others.

A Listening Test is given at the end of the 8 sessions to evaluate progress, determine completion or if more work is needed.

In some cases, the Expressive Listening Phase may be preceeded by a special set of receptive listening sessions (3-5 sessions). This depends on the individual. The number of Expressive Listening sessions is then reduced.

Break or Completion

If more work is needed, this is agreed upon at the consultation with the Listening Test that follows the 8 sessions of the Expressive Phase. A 3 week break is taken before beginning with that work.

Otherwise, the program is complete and it is time to celebrate. Clients are always welcome to stay in touch. After 3 months, a free follow-up Listening Test and evaluation is offered to confirm the results of the program and ensure that they are being maintained.

Additional Support When Needed

A final 7 sessions of Expressive Listening may be warranted and may also include additional therapies during the Dynamic Listening sessions.

If more support is needed after that, it will be offered at a substantial discount. This is very rare. Desired outcomes usually occur within 30 sessions and often less.

Activities During Listening

The DLS headsets have long cords so listeners are free to walk about, play games, or just rest. Other beneficial activities may be done during listening based on other skills of Robert Power. Children usually enjoy “quiet activities” such as crafts, playing with toys, painting, etc., while most adults prefer to sit and listen quietly or do artwork. Homework, office work, and intense mental activities are discouraged. Chewing gum and eating are not allowed as they might interfere with the auditory stimulation.